Are you craving a comforting, delicious meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This creamy ground beef Alfredo recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a simple yet satisfying dish that's surprisingly healthy and packed with flavor. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking, offering a delicious alternative to takeout and a great addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas. Forget complicated cooking techniques – this recipe is accessible to everyone, from beginner cooks to seasoned chefs. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (16 ounce) package fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the cooking water.
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Brown the Beef: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in 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.
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Sauté the Vegetables: 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.
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Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained), oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Create the Alfredo Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook until the sauce is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
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Combine and Serve: Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss to coat with the Alfredo sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use a combination of Parmesan and Romano cheese.
- Add some veggies: Include chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor. Sauté them with the onions and garlic.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Make it lighter: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream to reduce the fat content. This will slightly alter the creaminess, but it remains a delicious healthy meal.
- Meal prep friendly: This dish reheats well, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 500-600 (depending on variations)
- Protein: Around 30-40g
- Fat: Around 25-35g
- Carbohydrates: Around 40-50g
This ground beef Alfredo recipe is a simple, delicious, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight. Enjoy this easy and healthy dish! It's one of the best recipes for a quick and comforting dinner. It's sure to become a family favorite! Remember to adjust seasonings to your liking for the perfect personalized dish.