Description
A rich and comforting cheesy garlic butter linguine featuring savory ground beef, creamy mozzarella and Parmesan sauce, enhanced with garlic, Italian seasoning, and a hint of red pepper flakes. Perfect for a hearty yet quick 30-minute dinner for four.
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 package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside for later use.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Break it apart using a spatula, then season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using. Sauté for about one minute until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet, stirring constantly to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to thicken slightly. Stir in shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until the cheeses melt completely and the sauce becomes smooth.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked linguine and browned ground beef back into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together thoroughly so the pasta and beef are evenly coated. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to let the flavors meld. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve & Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat. Plate the cheesy garlic butter linguine with ground beef, then garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes according to your preference.
- Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese will enhance the flavor of the sauce.
- To lighten the recipe, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
- If preferred, you can swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
