Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Savory Ground Beef

Name: Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Savory Ground Beef
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 oz linguine pasta; 1 lb ground beef; 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional); ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Isabella

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Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Savory Ground Beef a rich, creamy linguine tossed with garlic butter, seasoned ground beef, and melted mozzarella cheese makes for the ultimate comfort meal. This dish is packed with bold flavors, creamy textures, and a satisfying savory bite that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special treat.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings together simple ingredients to create a restaurant-quality dish at home. The combination of garlic butter, creamy cheese sauce, and tender linguine gives this meal a rich and indulgent feel. The addition of seasoned ground beef makes it hearty and filling, while the fresh parsley adds a nice touch of brightness. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 oz linguine pasta

1 lb ground beef

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

5 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

Cook the linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned, then drain excess grease and set aside.

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, then stir in the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Add the cooked pasta and browned ground beef to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the creamy garlic butter sauce.

Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 620 kcal per serving

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to bring some heat.

Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage instead of ground beef.

Cheese Lovers: Mix in extra cheese like provolone or gouda for an even richer sauce.

Veggie Boost: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

Low-Carb Option: Swap the linguine for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

Storage and Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I add a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce and warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. The microwave works too, but I heat it in 30-second intervals to prevent the cheese from becoming too greasy. I don’t recommend freezing this dish, as the cream-based sauce can separate when thawed.

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FAQs

How can I make this dish even creamier?

I add an extra splash of heavy cream or mix in a bit of cream cheese for an ultra-rich sauce.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! I prepare the sauce and ground beef ahead of time and store them separately from the pasta. When ready to serve, I reheat everything and toss it together for the best texture.

What can I serve with this pasta?

I like to serve it with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti all work well in this dish.

How do I prevent the sauce from getting too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, I stir in a bit of reserved pasta water or an extra splash of cream to loosen it up.

Conclusion

This cheesy garlic butter linguine with savory ground beef is the ultimate comfort food. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, making it a go-to for an easy yet satisfying meal. Whether I’m cooking for family or just craving something indulgent, this recipe never disappoints.