This Ground Beef Alfredo Bake is a creamy, comforting pasta meal that’s perfect for weeknights. Easy to make and full of rich, cheesy flavors you’ll love.
Ground Beef Alfredo Bake
If you’re craving a creamy, filling pasta dish, look no further than this Ground Beef Alfredo Bake. Combining rich Alfredo sauce with hearty ground beef and tender pasta, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. It’s easy to prepare, requiring just a few simple ingredients and about 45 minutes from start to finish.
Why You’ll Love It
This comfort food classic blends savory beef with creamy cheese sauce that’s both indulgent and satisfying. It’s perfect for meal prep, feeding a family, or enjoying as cozy leftovers. Plus, the recipe’s simplicity means you’ll have dinner on the table quickly with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta (or any bite-sized pasta)
- 1 lb ground beef (sub beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumble for variation)
- 1 jar (15 oz) Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade works great)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
- Add the ground beef, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, beef mixture, and Alfredo sauce. Stir until everything is well coated.
- Transfer this mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly on top.
- Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from oven, let cool slightly, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Looking for more easy dinner ideas? Check out our popular Easy Weeknight Dinners collection. For delicious pasta inspiration, visit Best Pasta Recipes. And for cooking tips on ground beef, see Food Network.
Expert Tips
To keep your Ground Beef Alfredo Bake creamy, avoid overcooking the pasta before baking. Al dente pasta holds texture best. For a richer sauce, stir in a splash of cream. Use a mix of cheeses for depth — Gruyere or fontina add lovely flavor.
If you want to prep ahead, assemble the dish but don’t bake. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake an extra 5 minutes to warm through.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. To freeze, cool completely and place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat covered in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Variations
- Vegan: Swap ground beef for plant-based meat alternatives and use vegan Alfredo sauce or a cashew cream base. Vegan cheese works well here.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the Alfredo sauce is gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy with coconut cream or a dairy-free Alfredo sauce and use dairy-free cheese.
- Healthier Option: Replace heavy Alfredo with a lighter white sauce or cauliflower Alfredo for fewer calories.
FAQ
Q: Can I use other types of pasta for Ground Beef Alfredo Bake?
A: Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, fusilli, or rotini all work perfectly to hold the creamy sauce and beef.
Q: How do I reheat the Ground Beef Alfredo Bake without it drying out?
A: Reheat in the oven covered with foil or microwave with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture.
Q: Can I make Ground Beef Alfredo Bake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble it up to 24 hours before baking. Just keep it refrigerated and bake before serving.
Q: Is Ground Beef Alfredo Bake freezer-friendly?
A: Definitely. Freeze in airtight containers and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Call to Action
Did you try this Ground Beef Alfredo Bake? Share your thoughts in the comments, rate the recipe, and don’t forget to save it for your next comforting dinner. Happy cooking!
