Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta Recipe

In our home, weeknight dinners are a delicate dance between speed, ease, and deliciousness. We crave meals that are satisfying and comforting, but also realistic to pull off after a busy day. This Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta recipe has become a true champion in our kitchen. From the first time I whipped it up, it was an instant hit. The rich, creamy Alfredo sauce, perfectly coating tender pasta and savory ground beef, is simply irresistible. Even my picky eaters devour it without complaint, and the smiles around the table are always the best reward. It’s become a go-to for busy evenings, potlucks, and even just those nights when we need a little extra comfort on our plates. This recipe is not just about feeding the family; it’s about creating moments of shared enjoyment and delicious memories, one creamy, beefy bite at a time. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing, easy-to-make pasta dish that’s packed with flavor and comfort, look no further – this Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe rotation too.

Ingredients

To create this delectable Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta, you’ll need a collection of fresh, flavorful, and pantry-friendly ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the layers of taste and texture that make this dish so incredibly satisfying. Let’s delve into each ingredient, highlighting their importance and offering insights for optimal results:

• 1 pound Ground Beef (80/20 blend recommended): The heart of this dish, ground beef provides a robust, savory base that beautifully complements the creamy Alfredo sauce. An 80/20 blend offers a good balance of flavor and moisture, ensuring the beef remains tender and juicy even after browning. You can also opt for leaner ground beef if desired, but be mindful that it might require a touch more olive oil during browning to prevent dryness. Consider exploring different types of ground beef, such as ground chuck or sirloin, for varying levels of richness and flavor depth. For a richer flavor profile, you can even experiment with a blend of ground beef and Italian sausage.
• 1 pound Pasta (Fettuccine, Penne, or Rotini recommended): Pasta is the perfect canvas for the luscious Alfredo sauce and savory ground beef. Fettuccine, with its wide, flat shape, is a classic choice that wonderfully holds onto the creamy sauce. Penne, with its tubular shape and ridges, effectively traps the sauce inside and out, ensuring each bite is flavorful. Rotini, with its spirals, offers a playful texture and also does a great job of clinging to the sauce. Feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like spaghetti, linguine, or even shells – each will offer a slightly different textural experience. For a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat pasta or lentil-based pasta, which adds fiber and nutritional value.
• 4 tablespoons Butter (Unsalted): Butter is the foundation of a rich and flavorful Alfredo sauce. Unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish and ensures the delicate flavors of the other ingredients shine through. High-quality butter, with a higher fat content, will contribute to a creamier and more luxurious sauce. If you’re using salted butter, be sure to adjust the added salt accordingly, tasting as you go. For a slightly different flavor profile, you could even try using browned butter, which adds a nutty and caramelized depth to the sauce.
• 4 cloves Garlic (Minced): Garlic is an essential aromatic that infuses the Alfredo sauce and ground beef with its pungent and savory notes. Freshly minced garlic is highly recommended for the best flavor, as pre-minced garlic can sometimes lose its potency. Adjust the amount of garlic to your preference – if you love a strong garlic flavor, feel free to add an extra clove or two. For a milder garlic flavor, you can roast the garlic cloves before mincing them, which mellows out the sharpness and adds a subtle sweetness.
• 2 cups Heavy Cream: Heavy cream is the key ingredient that creates the signature richness and velvety texture of Alfredo sauce. Its high fat content ensures a luxurious and decadent sauce that beautifully coats the pasta and ground beef. For the best results, use full-fat heavy cream. While you can substitute with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version, the sauce will be significantly less creamy and rich. For a vegan Alfredo sauce alternative, consider using full-fat coconut cream or cashew cream.
• 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (Freshly Grated): Parmesan cheese is the cornerstone of authentic Alfredo sauce, providing its characteristic salty, nutty, and umami-rich flavor. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is crucial for the best taste and texture, as pre-shredded Parmesan often contains cellulose and anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly and impart a slightly grainy texture. Use a high-quality Parmigiano-Reggiano for the most authentic and flavorful results. For a sharper and more pronounced Parmesan flavor, you can also incorporate a small amount of Pecorino Romano cheese.
• 1/2 cup Pasta Water (Reserved): Pasta water, the starchy water leftover after cooking pasta, is a secret weapon in creating a perfectly emulsified and luscious Alfredo sauce. The starch in the pasta water helps to bind the sauce together, creating a smooth and creamy consistency that clings beautifully to the pasta. Always reserve pasta water before draining the pasta. If you forget to reserve pasta water, you can use plain hot water or chicken broth as a substitute, but the sauce might not be as thick and emulsified.
• 1 teaspoon Dried Italian Seasoning: Italian seasoning is a blend of dried herbs that adds a layer of herbaceous complexity to the dish, complementing the richness of the Alfredo sauce and savory ground beef. You can find pre-made Italian seasoning blends in most grocery stores, or you can create your own blend using dried oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. Feel free to adjust the amount of Italian seasoning to your preference, or experiment with other dried herbs like red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or parsley for freshness.
• Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Salt and black pepper are essential seasonings that enhance the flavors of all the other ingredients and bring balance to the dish. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting as needed throughout the cooking process. Freshly ground black pepper is recommended for the best flavor. Taste the Alfredo sauce and ground beef mixture at various stages and adjust seasoning accordingly to ensure the final dish is perfectly seasoned to your liking.
• Optional Garnishes: Fresh Parsley (chopped), Red Pepper Flakes (for heat), Extra Parmesan Cheese (for serving). Garnishes add visual appeal, freshness, and an extra layer of flavor to the finished dish. Fresh parsley provides a pop of color and herbaceousness, red pepper flakes add a touch of heat for those who like a little spice, and extra Parmesan cheese allows for an extra cheesy indulgence at the table. Consider other garnish options like a drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness, or toasted breadcrumbs for added texture.

By gathering these high-quality ingredients and understanding their roles in the recipe, you’re well on your way to creating a truly exceptional Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta that will impress your family and friends.

Instructions

Crafting this Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is a straightforward process, broken down into easy-to-follow steps. Each stage is designed to build flavor and texture, culminating in a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. Let’s walk through the instructions step-by-step, providing detailed guidance for perfect results:

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Generously salting the water is crucial as it seasons the pasta from within, enhancing its flavor. Add the pasta of your choice to the boiling water and cook according to package directions until al dente. Al dente pasta has a slight bite to it, preventing it from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce. While the pasta cooks, ensure you stir it occasionally to prevent sticking. Once the pasta is cooked to al dente, reserve approximately 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining it completely. This pasta water will be essential for creating a perfectly emulsified and creamy Alfredo sauce later on. Set the drained pasta aside and keep it warm.
2. Brown the Ground Beef: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the ground beef. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil (or a tablespoon of butter for extra richness) over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef to the hot skillet and break it apart with a spoon or spatula. Brown the ground beef, stirring occasionally, until it is cooked through and no longer pink. As the ground beef cooks, it will release fat. Drain off any excess grease from the skillet to prevent the final dish from being overly greasy. Draining the excess fat also ensures that the flavors of the other ingredients can shine through without being masked by greasiness.
3. Sauté Garlic and Add Seasoning: Once the ground beef is browned and drained, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes, or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste. Sautéing the garlic in butter or olive oil releases its aromatic oils, infusing the ground beef and the subsequent Alfredo sauce with its savory flavor. After sautéing the garlic, add the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together to ensure the ground beef and garlic are evenly coated with the seasonings. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed at this stage.
4. Make the Alfredo Sauce: Now it’s time to create the creamy Alfredo sauce. Reduce the heat to low. This is crucial as high heat can cause the heavy cream to scorch or separate. Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the ground beef mixture. Gently stir to combine the cream with the ground beef and seasonings. Bring the cream to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Simmering the cream allows it to thicken slightly and meld with the flavors of the ground beef, garlic, and seasonings. Continue to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened. Do not boil the sauce vigorously, as this can also cause it to separate.
5. Melt in the Parmesan Cheese: Once the Alfredo sauce has slightly thickened, remove the skillet from the heat. This step is important as adding Parmesan cheese to boiling sauce can cause it to clump. Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring continuously until the cheese is completely melted and incorporated into the sauce. The Parmesan cheese will melt into the warm cream, creating a smooth, rich, and cheesy Alfredo sauce. Continue stirring until the sauce is velvety smooth and there are no clumps of cheese remaining.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked and drained pasta to the skillet with the creamy ground beef Alfredo sauce. Toss the pasta gently to coat it evenly with the sauce, ensuring every strand is enveloped in creamy goodness. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, while tossing, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. The pasta water will help to thin out the sauce and create a silky, emulsified texture that clings beautifully to the pasta. Continue tossing until the pasta is evenly coated and heated through.
7. Serve Immediately: Once the pasta is well coated in the sauce and heated through, it’s time to serve and enjoy! Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is best served immediately while it’s hot and the sauce is at its creamiest. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, red pepper flakes (if desired), and extra grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal. Serve in bowls or plates and allow your family and friends to savor the deliciousness of this homemade comfort food.

By following these detailed instructions, you’ll be able to confidently create a restaurant-quality Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta right in your own kitchen. Each step is designed to build flavor and ensure a perfectly creamy and satisfying dish that will be a hit with everyone who tries it.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximate)

Understanding the nutritional content of your meals can be helpful for making informed dietary choices. Please note that the nutrition facts provided below are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands, portion sizes, and cooking methods. These values are calculated per serving, assuming the recipe serves approximately 6 people.

• Servings: Approximately 6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 650-750 calories (This can vary based on the fat content of the ground beef and the amount of Parmesan cheese used).

Approximate Nutritional Breakdown per serving:

• Total Fat: 45-55 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 25-35 grams
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15-20 grams
• Cholesterol: 180-220 mg
• Sodium: 700-900 mg (depending on added salt and Parmesan cheese)
• Total Carbohydrates: 40-50 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 2-4 grams
  • Sugars: 5-7 grams (naturally occurring in dairy)
• Protein: 30-40 grams

Important Considerations:

• Fat Content: This recipe is relatively high in fat due to the heavy cream, butter, and ground beef. To reduce the fat content, you can use leaner ground beef, reduce the amount of butter, or substitute part of the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk (though this will affect the creaminess of the sauce).
• Sodium Content: The sodium content can be significant due to added salt and Parmesan cheese. Use low-sodium or no-salt-added ingredients where possible and be mindful of added salt.
• Calorie Count: The calorie count is moderate to high, making this a more indulgent meal. Portion control is important if you are watching your calorie intake.
• Protein Content: This dish is a good source of protein, thanks to the ground beef and Parmesan cheese, contributing to satiety and muscle building.
• Carbohydrate Content: The carbohydrates primarily come from the pasta. Choosing whole wheat pasta can increase the fiber content and provide more sustained energy.

Disclaimer: These nutrition facts are estimations and for informational purposes only. For precise nutritional information, it is recommended to use a nutrition calculator and input the exact brands and quantities of ingredients used. Individuals with specific dietary needs or concerns should consult with a registered dietitian or healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.

Preparation Time

Efficient meal preparation is key for busy individuals and families. This Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta recipe is designed to be relatively quick and easy to prepare, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or impromptu gatherings. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated preparation and cooking times:

• Prep Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
  • This includes time for mincing garlic, grating Parmesan cheese (if using a block), and gathering all the ingredients.
  • Chopping parsley and preparing any optional garnishes also falls within this prep time.
  • If you are using pre-minced garlic and pre-shredded Parmesan cheese, you can reduce the prep time slightly.
  • Reading through the recipe instructions beforehand to familiarize yourself with the steps can also contribute to a smoother and faster prep process.
• Cook Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
  • This includes the time it takes to boil the pasta, brown the ground beef, sauté the garlic, and make the Alfredo sauce.
  • The pasta cooking time will vary depending on the type of pasta used, so refer to the package directions for accurate cooking times.
  • The Alfredo sauce preparation, including simmering and melting the Parmesan cheese, takes about 10-15 minutes.
  • Combining the pasta and sauce and heating everything through adds a few more minutes to the cook time.
• Total Time: Approximately 35-45 minutes
  • From start to finish, you can expect to have this delicious Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta on the table in under 45 minutes.
  • This makes it a convenient and time-saving meal option for busy weeknights or when you need to prepare dinner relatively quickly.
  • The active cooking time is relatively short, allowing you to focus on other tasks while the pasta cooks and the sauce simmers.

Tips to Speed Up Preparation:

• Utilize Pre-prepped Ingredients: Using pre-minced garlic and pre-shredded Parmesan cheese can save a few minutes of prep time.
• Efficient Chopping: Practice efficient knife skills to quickly mince garlic and chop parsley.
• Multi-tasking: While the pasta is boiling, you can simultaneously brown the ground beef and start preparing the Alfredo sauce ingredients.
• Read the Recipe First: Familiarizing yourself with the recipe steps beforehand will help you work more efficiently in the kitchen.
• Organize Ingredients: Having all your ingredients measured and prepped before you start cooking, a technique known as “mise en place,” will streamline the cooking process.

With its relatively short preparation and cook time, this Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is a fantastic option for a satisfying and flavorful meal that doesn’t require spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve

Serving Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is about enhancing the already delicious dish and creating a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience:

• Classic Side Dishes:
  • Garlic Bread: A classic pairing with pasta, warm and crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy Alfredo sauce. Homemade garlic bread or store-bought baguette slices brushed with garlic butter and toasted are both excellent choices.
  • Side Salad: A fresh and crisp side salad provides a welcome contrast to the richness of the pasta. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or a Caesar salad works beautifully. Consider adding vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.
  • Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Balance the creamy pasta with a serving of healthy vegetables. Steamed broccoli, asparagus, green beans, or roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or zucchini are all great options. Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds a caramelized flavor.
• Garnish Options:
  • Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also provides a fresh, herbaceous counterpoint to the richness of the sauce. Sprinkle parsley over the pasta just before serving.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a touch of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick that complements the creamy sauce and savory ground beef. Offer red pepper flakes on the side so individuals can customize their level of spice.
  • Extra Parmesan Cheese: Offer extra grated Parmesan cheese at the table for those who want an extra cheesy indulgence. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan just before serving enhances the cheesy flavor and adds a touch of elegance.
  • Drizzle of Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the finished pasta can add a touch of richness and enhance the overall flavor.
  • Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the dish and cut through the richness of the Alfredo sauce. Offer lemon wedges on the side for those who prefer a touch of acidity.
• Drink Pairings:
  • White Wine: A crisp and dry white wine like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay pairs well with creamy pasta dishes. The acidity of the white wine helps to balance the richness of the Alfredo sauce.
  • Light Red Wine: If you prefer red wine, a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or Beaujolais can also complement the dish without overpowering it.
  • Sparkling Water or Italian Soda: For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a lemon or lime wedge or an Italian soda provides a refreshing and palate-cleansing accompaniment.
  • Iced Tea: Unsweetened iced tea is another refreshing and versatile beverage that pairs well with many dishes, including pasta.
• Serving Style:
  • Family Style: Serve the Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta in a large serving bowl in the center of the table and let everyone help themselves. This creates a casual and communal dining experience.
  • Plated Servings: For a more formal presentation, plate individual servings of pasta in bowls or on plates. Garnish each serving with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

By considering these serving suggestions, you can create a complete and enjoyable dining experience centered around your delicious Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special occasion, these serving ideas will help you present and enjoy this dish to its fullest potential.

Additional Tips for Perfect Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta

To truly master this Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta recipe and ensure consistently delicious results, consider these additional tips gleaned from years of cooking and perfecting this family favorite:

1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta is crucial for the best texture in this dish. Overcooked pasta will become mushy and lose its pleasant bite when combined with the creamy sauce. Always cook pasta according to package directions and test for doneness a minute or two before the recommended time. It should be firm to the bite but cooked through. Remember, the pasta will continue to cook slightly when added to the hot sauce.
2. Grate Your Own Parmesan Cheese: Pre-shredded Parmesan cheese often contains cellulose and anti-caking agents, which can prevent it from melting smoothly and create a grainy texture in the Alfredo sauce. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts beautifully into the sauce, creating a velvety smooth and flavorful result. Invest in a good quality block of Parmesan cheese and a microplane or grater for the best flavor and texture.
3. Low and Slow Alfredo Sauce: When making the Alfredo sauce, keep the heat low and simmer gently. High heat can cause the heavy cream to scorch or separate, resulting in a grainy or broken sauce. Simmering the cream over low heat allows it to thicken gradually and meld with the flavors of the garlic and seasonings without curdling or separating. Patience is key for a perfectly smooth and creamy Alfredo sauce.
4. Season Generously and Taste as You Go: Seasoning is crucial for bringing out the flavors in this dish. Don’t be afraid to season generously with salt and black pepper at each stage of cooking – when browning the ground beef, sautéing the garlic, and making the Alfredo sauce. Taste the sauce at various points and adjust seasoning accordingly. Remember that Parmesan cheese is also salty, so adjust the added salt accordingly. Proper seasoning is the difference between a good dish and a truly exceptional one.
5. Control the Sauce Consistency with Pasta Water: Reserved pasta water is your secret weapon for achieving the perfect Alfredo sauce consistency. If the sauce becomes too thick after adding the Parmesan cheese and pasta, gradually add reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, while tossing, until the sauce thins out to your desired consistency. The starch in the pasta water helps to emulsify the sauce and create a silky, smooth texture that clings beautifully to the pasta. Don’t discard the pasta water – it’s liquid gold for pasta dishes!

By incorporating these additional tips into your cooking process, you’ll be well-equipped to consistently create a truly exceptional Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta that is packed with flavor, boasts a perfectly creamy texture, and will impress even the most discerning palates. These small adjustments can make a big difference in the final outcome of your dish.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Addressing common questions can help clarify any uncertainties and empower you to confidently make this Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta recipe. Here are five frequently asked questions along with detailed answers:

Q1: Can I use milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

A: While you can technically use milk or half-and-half as a substitute for heavy cream, it will significantly impact the richness and creaminess of the Alfredo sauce. Heavy cream’s high fat content is what creates the signature velvety texture and decadent flavor of authentic Alfredo sauce. Using milk or half-and-half will result in a much thinner and less flavorful sauce. If you choose to substitute, you may need to simmer the sauce for a longer time to try and thicken it slightly, but it will still lack the richness of a sauce made with heavy cream. For the best and most authentic results, heavy cream is highly recommended.

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: While Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is best served fresh, you can prepare components of the recipe ahead of time to save time on the day you plan to serve it. You can brown the ground beef and prepare the Alfredo sauce separately and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When ready to serve, cook the pasta, reheat the ground beef and Alfredo sauce gently on the stovetop, and then combine everything together. Keep in mind that the sauce may thicken upon refrigeration, so you may need to add a splash of milk or pasta water to thin it out when reheating. Reheating the complete dish is not recommended as the pasta may become overly soft and the sauce consistency may change.

Q3: Can I freeze Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta?

A: Freezing Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is not recommended due to the dairy content of the Alfredo sauce. Dairy-based sauces, like Alfredo, often tend to separate or become grainy when thawed and reheated. The texture of the pasta may also become mushy after freezing and thawing. If you have leftovers, it’s best to store them in the refrigerator and consume them within 2-3 days for the best quality. For optimal results, it’s always best to enjoy Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta fresh.

Q4: Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

A: Absolutely! Adding vegetables can enhance the nutritional value and flavor complexity of Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta. Some excellent vegetable additions include:

• Sautéed Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms sautéed with the garlic add an earthy and savory element.
• Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus: These green vegetables provide a welcome contrast in color and texture and add a healthy boost.
• Spinach or Kale: Stir in fresh spinach or kale towards the end of cooking until wilted for added nutrients and a subtle leafy green flavor.
• Sun-dried Tomatoes: Chopped sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of tangy sweetness and chewy texture.
• Peas: Frozen peas can be added during the last few minutes of cooking for a pop of sweetness and color.

Simply sauté or steam your chosen vegetables separately and add them to the pasta and sauce mixture when you combine everything together.

Q5: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?

A: While Parmesan cheese is the traditional and most authentic cheese for Alfredo sauce, you can experiment with other hard, salty cheeses if desired. Pecorino Romano cheese, with its sharper and saltier flavor, can be used in combination with or as a substitute for Parmesan. Grana Padano is another Italian hard cheese that is similar to Parmesan but slightly milder and nuttier. Avoid using softer cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar, as they will not melt into the sauce in the same way as hard grating cheeses and may alter the flavor profile significantly. For the most authentic Alfredo flavor, Parmesan cheese remains the top choice.

These FAQs aim to address common concerns and provide helpful insights to ensure your Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta cooking experience is smooth, successful, and ultimately delicious. If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to explore online cooking communities or consult with experienced home cooks for further guidance.

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