Indulge your taste buds with the ultimate comfort food: Cheesy Pasta Meat Sauce Alfredo! This delightful dish combines the heartiness of ground beef with a creamy, cheesy sauce that will have you coming back for seconds—maybe even thirds! Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this Italian-inspired recipe is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, taking just 40 minutes from start to finish. Ready to elevate your pasta game? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’s sure to impress!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and equipment: large pasta pot, colander, large skillet, wooden spoon, and cheese grater. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for even cooking.
- Fill a large pasta pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring to a rolling boil over high heat. The salted water will help season the pasta from within.
- Add pasta to boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes for al dente texture. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and break into small crumbles using a wooden spoon. Cook until fully browned and no pink remains, approximately 7-8 minutes.
- Drain excess fat from the beef using a colander. Return beef to the skillet and reduce heat to medium.
- Pour marinara sauce over the beef, stirring to combine. Simmer the sauce for 5-6 minutes to meld flavors and ensure beef is thoroughly heated.
- Add heavy cream to the beef and marinara mixture, stirring continuously. This will create a rich, creamy base for the sauce.
- Drain cooked pasta in a colander, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water in case sauce needs thinning.
- Add shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until cheese is completely melted and sauce is smooth.
- Season sauce with salt and pepper to taste. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Add drained pasta to the sauce, tossing gently to ensure every pasta piece is evenly coated with the cheesy meat sauce.
- Serve immediately in warm pasta bowls. Optional: garnish with additional Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh parsley for added flavor and presentation.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: For the best texture, opt for fettuccine or penne, as their shapes hold the sauce beautifully.
- Don’t Rush the Boil: Make sure your water is at a rolling boil before adding the pasta. This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
- Season Your Water: A generous pinch of salt in the boiling water enhances the flavor of the pasta, making a significant difference in the final dish.
- Drain with Care: When draining the cooked pasta, reserve a bit of the pasta water—this starchy liquid can help adjust the sauce's consistency if it becomes too thick.
- Melt Cheese Slowly: When adding the mozzarella and Parmesan, stir continuously over low heat to achieve a smooth, creamy sauce without clumps.
- Taste as You Go: Always season your sauce with salt and pepper gradually, tasting along the way to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Consider adding fresh parsley or extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving for a burst of color and flavor. With these tips in hand, you’re all set to create a deliciously cheesy pasta dish that will leave everyone asking for your secret recipe!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 685kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 190mg
