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Savory Garlic Butter Ground Beef Linguine

Savory Garlic Butter Ground Beef Linguine

A quick and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender linguine tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce with savory ground beef and creamy Parmesan cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is easy to prepare and delivers maximum taste with minimal effort.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting time 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Dishes, Pasta
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large skillet or pan For cooking the ground beef and sauce.
  • 1 Pot For boiling the linguine.
  • 1 Colander For draining the pasta.
  • Optional Grater For freshly grating Parmesan cheese.

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 8 oz Linguine pasta Use gluten-free linguine if needed.
  • 1 lb Ground beef Lean or medium-fat ground beef works best.
  • 4 cloves Garlic (minced) Fresh garlic adds robust flavor.
  • 4 tbsp Butter Substitute olive oil for a lighter option.
  • 1 cup Heavy cream or half-and-half Use milk with a thickener like flour or cornstarch as an alternative.
  • ½–¾ cup Grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
  • To taste tsp Salt Adjust based on preference.
  • To taste tsp Black pepper Freshly ground for better flavor.
  • ¼ cup Chopped fresh parsley for garnish. Optional

Optional Add-Ins

  • 1 cup Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or diced bell peppers for added nutrition. Optional
  • ¼ tsp Red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. Optional

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Recipe

    Cook the Linguine:

    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8–10 minutes). Drain and set aside, reserving a small amount of pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.

    Brown the Ground Beef:

    • Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and break it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through (about 6–8 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.

    Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:

    • Lower the heat and add minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Melt butter into the skillet, then stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce thicken gently while stirring (about 3–5 minutes).

    Combine Pasta and Sauce:

    • Add the cooked linguine to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly with the sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to reach the desired consistency.

    Season and Garnish:

    • Season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir in chopped parsley just before serving for freshness.

    Serve:

    • Plate the linguine hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese, parsley, or a drizzle of melted butter or olive oil for a glossy finish.

    Notes

      • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream, milk, or broth to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture.
      • Substitutions: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. Swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a sharper flavor.
      • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free linguine and ensure all other ingredients (e.g., sauces, seasonings) are gluten-free.
     
     

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. What ingredients are required to make garlic butter ground beef linguine?
      • Ground beef, linguine pasta, butter, garlic, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Optional additions include mozzarella, red pepper flakes, or fresh herbs like parsley.
       
    2. How long does it typically take to prepare and cook this pasta dish?
      • About 30 minutes, including cooking the pasta, browning the beef, making the sauce, and combining everything.
       
    3. Can this recipe be adapted for gluten-free dietary requirements?
      • Yes, use gluten-free linguine and ensure all other ingredients, such as sauces or seasoning blends, are gluten-free.
       
    4. What are some recommended side dishes to serve with this pasta?
      • A simple green salad, steamed vegetables, roasted broccoli, or garlic bread pair well with the dish.
       
    5. Are there any specific techniques to ensure the ground beef is flavorful and juicy?
      • Brown the beef well, season during cooking, and avoid overcooking to keep it moist.
       
    6. What are the best types of linguine to use for a savory garlic butter sauce?
      • Standard durum wheat semolina linguine is ideal for its firm texture. Fresh linguine can also work but may absorb sauce differently.
     
     

    Tips & Tricks

    • Flavor Enhancement: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat or sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese for richness.
    • Presentation: Twirl the pasta into neat portions on the plate and garnish with fresh parsley or basil for color. Drizzle a bit of melted butter or olive oil for shine.
    • Leftovers: Transform leftover linguine into a baked casserole by topping it with mozzarella and baking until bubbly.
     
     

    Plating and Garnishing

    • Garnish: Sprinkle chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, or red pepper flakes over the dish for freshness and visual appeal.
    • Serving Style: Serve in shallow bowls or plates for a polished presentation. Pair with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
    Keyword Garlic Butter Pasta, Ground Beef Linguine, Weeknight Dinner