Description
This Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Pasta with Savory Ground Beef combines the creamy goodness of garlic butter sauce, savory ground beef, and melt-in-your-mouth cheese, making it the perfect dish for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
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)
Instructions
- 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.
Notes
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: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream, or microwave with some extra cream or water.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
