When the cold winds start blowing or you’re just in need of a comfort-filled meal, this Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Savory Ground Beef is here to wrap you up in a warm, cheesy hug. There’s something magical about the combination of buttery garlic sauce, tender pasta, and well-seasoned ground beef, all crowned with gooey melted cheese. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a cozy family dinner and an indulgent treat rolled into one.

This recipe is all about easy preparation with big, bold flavors. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal but fancy enough to serve when you have friends over. So, tie on your apron, and let’s create something irresistible together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

1. Comfort in a Bowl: Rich, creamy, and cheesy—what’s not to love?
2. Quick and Easy: Ready in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
3. Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or spice it up with red pepper flakes.
4. Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re cooking for kids, friends, or yourself, this dish is bound to disappear fast!

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz linguine pasta
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Ground Beef:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For Topping:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Savory Ground Beef:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta water—this will be your secret weapon for a silky sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Pro Tip: Al dente pasta holds up better when tossed in sauce and won’t turn mushy.

Step 2: Prepare the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, breaking up the meat with a spatula as it browns. Cook for about 7-8 minutes, or until the beef is fully cooked and the onion is soft.

Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2 minutes to bring out the spices’ aromas. Remove the beef mixture from the skillet and set aside.

Personal Tip: This is the part where your kitchen starts smelling amazing—don’t be surprised if everyone peeks in to see what’s cooking!

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn—it should smell nutty and sweet, not bitter.

Next, stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes. If it feels too thick, gradually add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches the consistency of your dreams.

Step 4: Combine It All

Now comes the fun part—toss the cooked linguine into the skillet, gently mixing it into the garlic butter sauce until every strand is coated. Add the cooked ground beef and stir until everything is evenly combined.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Serve

Spread the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. You can either let it melt naturally from the heat of the dish or place the skillet under the broiler for 1-2 minutes to create a bubbly, golden crust.

Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve it hot and watch the smiles light up around the table.

Helpful Tips:

• Spicy Variation: Love a bit of heat? Add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
• Veggie Boost: Stir in some cooked spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Make It Lighter: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a plant-based alternative.

Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-inspired
• Diet: Customizable

Notes:

• This dish is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or milk to revive the creamy texture.
• For gluten-free options, use gluten-free pasta.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):

Calories: ~500 kcal | Protein: 25g | Carbs: 40g | Fat: 25g | Fiber: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I Use Another Type of Pasta?

Absolutely! Fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne will work well in this recipe.

Can I Substitute the Ground Beef?

Yes, you can replace ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based ground “meat” for a vegetarian option.

Is the Cheese Optional?

While the mozzarella adds a deliciously gooey finish, you can skip it if you prefer or substitute it with another melting cheese.

Storage Instructions:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop with a bit of liquid (like milk or pasta water) to prevent the sauce from drying out. Avoid freezing, as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing.

Related Recipes:

If you loved this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Fettuccine with Savory Sausage

Conclusion:

This Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Savory Ground Beef is everything you want in a comfort meal—creamy, hearty, and bursting with flavor. It’s an easy way to turn a simple pasta night into something truly special. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with loved ones, this dish is bound to become a new favorite in your home. Happy cooking!

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