Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Savory Ground Beef is the perfect blend of rich flavors, creamy textures, and hearty satisfaction. This dish combines the silky smoothness of linguine coated in a luscious garlic butter and cheese sauce with the robust taste of seasoned ground beef. It’s comfort food elevated to a whole new level, ideal for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or when you’re simply craving something indulgent. Not only is this recipe incredibly easy to prepare, but it also delivers a gourmet experience right in your home kitchen.
Ingredients
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Preparation
Step 1: Cook the Linguine
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside, leaving any rendered fat behind.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté over medium heat until the garlic is fragrant, about 1–2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Create the Cheese Sauce
Lower the heat to medium-low. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Gradually add the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the cheese sauce. Stir well to coat the beef evenly. Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss to combine everything. Sprinkle red pepper flakes if you prefer a slight kick.
Step 6: Final Touches
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the ground beef and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables.
- Spicy Twist: Add chopped jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
- Chicken Swap: Replace the ground beef with shredded or diced chicken for a different protein choice.
Cooking Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smooth texture in the sauce.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should remain slightly firm to hold up well with the sauce.
- Adjust the seasoning to your preference, especially if the cheese adds enough saltiness.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this pasta with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
- A side of roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli complements the richness of the dish.
- Serve with a chilled white wine or sparkling water for an elegant touch.
Tips
- Keep the sauce warm and stir occasionally to prevent it from thickening too much before serving.
- Double the recipe for leftovers, as this pasta reheats well with a splash of milk or cream.
- Experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or sharp cheddar for a unique flavor profile.
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cooking Time
20 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 28g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 28g
FAQs
Q: Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, any pasta like fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne will work well with this recipe.
Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and check that your cheese and seasonings are gluten-free.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and ground beef ahead of time. Combine with freshly cooked pasta before serving.
Conclusion
Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Pasta with Savory Ground Beef is a dish that satisfies every craving. From its creamy, cheesy sauce to the hearty flavor of ground beef, this recipe delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a family or treating yourself, this easy-to-make dish is sure to become a favorite. Try it today and elevate your pasta game with this irresistible combination of flavors!
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Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Pasta with Savory Ground Beef
Ingredients
- 12 oz linguine pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Linguine
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside, leaving any rendered fat behind.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté over medium heat until the garlic is fragrant, about 1–2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Create the Cheese Sauce
Lower the heat to medium-low. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Gradually add the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the cheese sauce. Stir well to coat the beef evenly. Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss to combine everything. Sprinkle red pepper flakes if you prefer a slight kick.
Step 6: Final Touches
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately while hot.