Description
This Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Savory Ground Beef is a comforting and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender linguine tossed in a rich garlic butter cream sauce, loaded with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and hearty browned ground beef. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with savory meat and a hint of Italian herbs.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz linguine pasta
Meat
- 1 lb ground beef
Sauce
- 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)
Garnish
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Prepare the linguine according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set it aside to be combined later.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until fully browned and no longer pink, then drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Using the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce: Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly to combine with the garlic butter. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, then stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until they melt fully and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked linguine and browned ground beef back into the skillet. Toss everything well to coat the pasta and meat evenly with the cheesy garlic butter sauce. Continue to cook for another 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors can meld together nicely. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve & Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the linguine hot and enjoy a delicious, cheesy garlic butter pasta meal with savory beef.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add freshly cracked black pepper.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a nice sharp flavor to the sauce.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option respectively.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta; al dente texture works best for the sauce to cling properly.
- Freshly minced garlic is preferred for the best flavor, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
