Description
Experience the ultimate comfort food with this Savory Beef and Garlic Butter Linguine in Parmesan Cream. Tender ground beef, smooth linguine, and a velvety parmesan sauce come together in perfect harmony — a rich, indulgent dish that feels both cozy and refined. This recipe is perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a special occasion. The savory beef, infused with garlic butter, complements the creamy parmesan sauce beautifully, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. This dish is also incredibly versatile; feel free to add your own twist by incorporating vegetables like mushrooms or spinach, or by using different types of cheese.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb linguine pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine until al dente, then drain and set aside. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining, as this can be used to adjust the sauce consistency later.
Step 2: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and brown it while breaking apart the meat. Ensure the beef is fully cooked and no longer pink. Transfer to a plate and set aside. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
Step 3: Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make it bitter.
Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream and mix in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Add Italian seasoning and garlic powder, stirring until the sauce becomes silky and thickened after 2–3 minutes. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
Step 5: Return the cooked beef to the pan, blending it into the sauce. Toss in the linguine and stir until every strand is evenly coated. Ensure the pasta is well-combined with the sauce and beef.
Step 6: Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve right away. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a touch of heat, if desired.
Why you’ll love this recipe
This recipe is a winner because it’s:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of garlic butter, savory beef, and creamy parmesan sauce is simply irresistible.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or cheeses.
- Comforting: A warm, satisfying meal that will leave you feeling cozy and content.
- Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this dish with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, pairs well with the rich flavors. For a lighter option, try a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio. You can also serve it as a main course for a dinner party, or as a hearty lunch. Consider adding a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top just before serving for an extra cheesy touch.
Tips:
- Don’t overcook the pasta. Al dente pasta holds its shape better and absorbs the sauce more effectively.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of garlic to your liking. If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove or two.
- For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- If you don’t have linguine, you can use spaghetti or fettuccine instead.
- To make the dish even richer, add a tablespoon of cream cheese to the sauce.
- To reheat leftovers, add a splash of milk or cream to prevent the pasta from drying out.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate, per serving) Note: Nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: 650
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion
This Savory Beef and Garlic Butter Linguine in Parmesan Cream is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that is both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. With its rich and creamy sauce, tender beef, and perfectly cooked linguine, this dish is the epitome of comfort food. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to deliver. Experiment with different additions to make it your own, and enjoy the delicious flavors of this classic Italian-inspired dish!
Questions and Answers about this Recipe
Q1: Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey, ground chicken, or even Italian sausage would be delicious substitutes. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q2: I don’t have heavy cream. Can I use milk instead?
A: While heavy cream creates the richest sauce, you can use milk in a pinch. However, the sauce will be thinner and less creamy. Consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water to help thicken the sauce if using milk.
Q3: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and adding vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
Q4: How long can I store leftovers?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Q5: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Freezing is not recommended, as the sauce may separate upon thawing and the pasta texture may change. It is best enjoyed fresh.
