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Creamy Parmesan Beef Linguine with Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe

3.9 from 32 reviews

This creamy Parmesan beef linguine with garlic butter sauce is a rich and comforting pasta dish featuring tender ground beef simmered in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce, tossed with al dente linguine, and finished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and aromatic herbs. Perfect for a quick yet indulgent dinner in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 oz linguine pasta

Beef and Sauce

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)

Garnish

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water for later use, and set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and finely diced onion, sautéing until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until thoroughly browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the pan.
  4. Make the Cream Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes, if using. Continue to simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked linguine to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to combine and coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or thyme over the top. Serve immediately, optionally topping with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper for added flavor.

Notes

  • Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency; its starchiness helps bind the sauce to the pasta.
  • Red pepper flakes add a mild heat but can be omitted for a milder flavor.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting quality and flavor.
  • Drain excess fat from the beef to avoid a greasy sauce.
  • This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Keywords: Creamy Parmesan linguine, Beef linguine, Garlic butter pasta, Easy Italian dinner, Comfort food pasta