Are you craving a comforting, delicious meal that won't keep you in the kitchen all night? Then look no further! This creamy beef and Alfredo sauce recipe is the perfect solution for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. It's packed with flavor, surprisingly healthy, and guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game with this simple yet elegant dish!
Ingredients:
- For the Beef:
- 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10 recommended)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Get started with the Beef:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. 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.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Now for the Creamy Alfredo Sauce:
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Slowly whisk in the heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, being careful not to let it boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until it's melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Bring it all together:
- Once the beef is cooked through and the sauce is ready, gently combine the beef mixture and the Alfredo sauce in the large skillet. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
- Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
Serve & Enjoy!
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately over your favorite pasta. We recommend fettuccine or linguine.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Results:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of Parmesan and Romano cheese in the Alfredo sauce.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when browning the beef; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- If your Alfredo sauce becomes too thick, add a tablespoon or two of milk or cream to thin it out.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Variations:
- Spicy Beef Alfredo: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a little kick.
- Vegetable Beef Alfredo: Add your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach, to the beef mixture.
- Chicken Alfredo: Substitute ground chicken for the ground beef.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe is a delicious and relatively healthy option. Nutritional information will vary based on serving size and specific ingredients used. For precise calculations, use a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredients.
This easy recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. The homemade touch makes it stand out from restaurant meals, while the simple steps make it accessible for even beginner cooks. Enjoy this delicious dish!