Craving a comforting, delicious meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This creamy Beef Alfredo Pasta recipe is the perfect answer for busy weeknights. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times; this recipe focuses on simple, fresh ingredients to deliver a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. Let's dive into this easy and healthy meal!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fettuccine pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta. While the water heats, prepare the beef sauce.
Prepare the Beef Sauce:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds flavor!
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Cook the Pasta and Combine:
- Add the fettuccine pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package directions, until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the beef sauce. Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
Finishing Touches:
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed – a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious homemade Beef Alfredo!
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta holds its shape and texture better in the creamy sauce.
- Use fresh parsley: Fresh herbs make a big difference in flavor.
- Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a thinner sauce, add more heavy cream or pasta water. For a richer sauce, use less.
- Spice it up: A dash of red pepper flakes adds a delightful kick.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Include your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
- Use different cheese: Try Asiago, Romano, or a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor profile.
- Make it lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream to reduce the fat content.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 500-600 (depending on serving size and ingredients used)
- Protein: Around 30-35g
- Fat: Around 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: Around 50-60g
This delicious Beef Alfredo Pasta recipe is a simple and satisfying way to enjoy a quick and easy dinner. The recipe is adaptable to your preferences and dietary needs, making it a perfect choice for any weeknight meal. Enjoy!