Name: Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Pasta with Savory Ground Beef
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz linguine pasta; 1 lb ground beef; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

This Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Pasta with Savory Ground Beef is a rich and indulgent dish that combines the creamy goodness of a garlic butter sauce, savory ground beef, and melt-in-your-mouth cheese. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion when you want something comforting and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What’s not to love about this recipe? It’s the perfect combination of rich, creamy, and savory flavors. The linguine noodles are coated in a velvety garlic butter sauce, while the ground beef adds a hearty and savory element. And let’s not forget the cheese—Parmesan and mozzarella combine to create the ultimate creamy, cheesy finish. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, so I can enjoy a comforting meal in no time.

Ingredients

12 oz linguine pasta

1 lb ground beef

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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

Directions

Cook the linguine pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until browned. Season with salt and pepper. Once cooked, remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.

Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Stir in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Gradually add the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Add the cooked pasta and ground beef to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. If needed, add a bit of reserved pasta water to reach your desired sauce consistency.

Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Skip the ground beef and instead add sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian twist.

Spicy: For an extra kick, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add some hot sauce to the sauce.

Cheese Lover’s Delight: Add more cheese, like fontina or cheddar, for a different flavor profile.

Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken in place of the beef for a leaner option.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat the pasta on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy texture. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally, and adding a little extra cream or water as needed.

Related Recipes:

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken with Parmesan Linguine

FAQs

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap the linguine pasta for a gluten-free pasta variety. Be sure to check the labels of other ingredients, like the butter and heavy cream, to ensure they are gluten-free.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the pasta and the beef mixture ahead of time, then store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, just heat everything together and add the cream and cheese to complete the dish.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Definitely! While linguine is great for this dish, any pasta shape will work—penne, spaghetti, or fettuccine would all be fantastic options.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you want a thicker sauce, you can let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken. Alternatively, adding a bit more cheese can help thicken the sauce and give it a richer texture.

Can I freeze this pasta dish?

This dish can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly upon reheating. To freeze, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove, adding extra cream if needed.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Pasta with Savory Ground Beef is an easy-to-make, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich, creamy sauce, savory beef, and cheesy finish, it’s sure to become a favorite in my recipe repertoire. Whether I’m cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special meal, this pasta always delivers.

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