Creamy Corned Beef Alfredo Pasta Recipe is one of those dinners that feels fancy but is truly simple to make. On busy evenings here in my little Carmel kitchen, this is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table fast. It is rich, creamy, and full of cozy flavor. If you have leftover corned beef from Sunday dinner, this pasta turns it into something brand new. And if your day has been long, do not worry. This recipe is forgiving and easy.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This pasta has so much going for it.
- It is creamy and comforting, like your favorite Alfredo but heartier.
- It is perfect for leftover corned beef recipes, so nothing goes to waste.
- It cooks quickly on the stove top, great for busy nights.
- You only need simple ingredients you may already have at home.
Ingredients You Will Need
- Corned beef, cooked and chopped: This is the star. It adds salty, savory flavor and makes the dish filling.
- Pasta, like fettuccine or penne: Holds the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Butter: Helps start the Alfredo sauce and adds richness.
- Garlic: Gives warm, cozy flavor without being too strong.
- Heavy cream: Creates that smooth, creamy texture we love.
- Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce and thickens it naturally.
- Salt and black pepper: Simple seasoning to balance everything.
- Fresh parsley, optional: Adds a pop of color and freshness.
Step by Step Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until tender. Save 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- While the pasta cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Do not let it brown.
- Pour in the heavy cream. Let it gently simmer for 3 to 5 minutes. Stir often. The sauce will start to thicken.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir slowly until melted and smooth. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Stir in the chopped corned beef. Let it warm through for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the noodles are coated in creamy sauce.
- Taste and adjust with salt and black pepper. Sprinkle with parsley if you like, and serve warm.
Helpful Tips and Variations
- If you are using corned beef brisket from a slow cooker, try my slow cooker corned beef brisket recipe for tender, flavorful meat.
- For a sweet and savory twist, leftover slices from this apple and brown sugar corned beef taste wonderful in Alfredo sauce.
- If you prefer a classic dinner, this creamy pasta pairs nicely with my honey corned beef and cabbage for a full meal idea.
- You can add steamed broccoli or peas for extra color and make it feel like a corned beef casserole in pasta form.
- If you love corned beef recipes stove top, this one is as simple as it gets and does not need the oven.
- No heavy cream? Use half and half, but simmer a little longer so the sauce thickens.
Serving and Storage
Serve this pasta hot with a simple green salad or garlic bread. It also goes well with easy corned beef sides like roasted carrots or sautéed cabbage. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top makes it feel special.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir slowly so it stays creamy.
Creamy Corned Beef Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, not browned.
- Pour in the heavy cream. Simmer gently for 3–5 minutes, stirring often, until slightly thickened.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until melted and smooth. Add a splash of pasta water if sauce is too thick.
- Add chopped corned beef and stir until warmed through, about 2–3 minutes.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss until evenly coated in the sauce.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
FAQs
Can I use canned corned beef for this pasta?
Yes, you can. Canned corned beef works well if you are short on time. Just chop or crumble it before adding to the sauce. The texture will be softer than brisket, but the flavor is still rich and savory. This makes it one of those easy canned corned beef recipes you can pull together fast. Be sure to taste before adding extra salt, since canned meat can be salty.
What pasta works best for Creamy Corned Beef Alfredo Pasta Recipe?
Fettuccine is a classic choice because it holds the sauce so well. Penne and rotini are also great because the sauce gets into the ridges. Use what you have in your pantry. Even spaghetti will work. The best corned beef recipe is the one that fits your real life and your kitchen.
Can I make this with leftover baked corned beef?
Absolutely. Leftover baked corned beef slices are perfect here. Just chop them into bite size pieces. This recipe was made for leftover corned beef recipes, so do not let those extras sit in the fridge too long. Turn them into a creamy dinner instead.
How do I keep the Alfredo sauce from getting too thick?
The key is to save a little pasta water. Add a small splash at a time while stirring. The warm water helps loosen the sauce without making it watery. Also keep the heat low once the cheese is added. Gentle heat keeps everything smooth and creamy.
Final Thoughts from Ama
Some nights call for something simple but comforting, and this pasta truly delivers. It is creamy, filling, and made from ingredients you already love. If it is not perfect, it will still taste wonderful. That is the beauty of home cooking. Tie on your apron, take a deep breath, and enjoy the process. There is always room at my table for you.