Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Savory Ground Beef Recipe
If your dinner routine is asking for something both soul-satisfying and wonderfully quick, Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Savory Ground Beef is about to become your new obsession. Silky pasta is coated in garlic-kissed butter, swirled with luscious bites of ground beef, and generously smothered in melty mozzarella and sharp Parmesan. Every forkful tastes like pure comfort, and the best part? It’s all ready in just about half an hour! Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or planning a cozy solo night in, this dish is a win for weeknights or special gatherings alike. Dive in and discover why Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Savory Ground Beef deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this recipe is how it turns simple pantry staples into something unforgettable. Each ingredient plays a key role, whether it’s providing punchy flavor, creamy texture, or a pop of fresh color at the end.
- 12 ounces linguine pasta: This classic, flat noodle is perfect for grabbing every bit of sauce and cheese.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps brown the beef beautifully.
- 1 pound ground beef: Hearty, protein-packed, and the anchor to make this meal seriously satisfying.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Brings that irresistible garlicky aroma and flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural savory flavors in the beef and pasta.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds gentle heat and depth to each bite.
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: Lends herby, classic Italian undertones.
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a little spark of heat that elevates everything.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: The key to silky, rich sauce that ties the dish together.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sharp, nutty, and melts right into the sauce for big flavor.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, creamy perfection.
- ¼ cup pasta water (reserved): The secret to making the sauce cling like a dream.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds a pop of vibrant green and a touch of freshness.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Savory Ground Beef
Step 1: Cook the Linguine
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the linguine according to the package instructions until it’s just al dente. Before draining, don’t forget to scoop out about a quarter cup of that starchy pasta water—this will help make your sauce extra creamy later! Drain the rest and set your noodles aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
While the pasta is cooking, get a large skillet heating over medium. Swirl in the olive oil, then crumble in the ground beef. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, using a wooden spoon to break up the meat, until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink. If there’s a lot of excess fat, go ahead and drain it off—it keeps everything just the right level of rich.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and the optional red pepper flakes right into the browned beef. Sauté for 1 to 2 more minutes, stirring constantly, just until your kitchen smells dreamy and the garlic’s softened.
Step 4: Add the Butter and Pasta
Drop the butter into the skillet and let it melt fully, creating a glossy, fragrant coating for all that savory beef. As soon as it’s melted, add the cooked linguine and your reserved pasta water to the pan. Give it all a good toss to coat the noodles evenly in that buttery, garlicky goodness.
Step 5: Get Cheesy and Creamy
Lower the heat and sprinkle in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Stir everything together until the cheeses have melted into a creamy sauce that clings to every strand and spoonful. Let it cook just 1 or 2 minutes more, making sure every bite is perfectly combined and melty. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you like, and get ready to dig in!
How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Savory Ground Beef

Garnishes
A final flurry of fresh parsley brings a bit of brightness to your rich bowl. If you’re feeling extra, a light dusting of additional Parmesan or a crack of fresh black pepper will make each serving pop with restaurant-style flair.
Side Dishes
This hearty pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a sharp vinaigrette or a simple Caesar. A buttery slice of garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette is practically required for soaking up every last drop of cheesy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun family-style meal, serve the Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Savory Ground Beef straight from the skillet or a big pasta bowl at the table. You can also portion it into individual ramekins, top with a little more mozzarella, and broil until golden and bubbly for an elevated twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any extra Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Savory Ground Beef keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even more tempting for lunch or a quick second dinner.
Freezing
If you’re prepping ahead, place cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or zip bags. This dish freezes like a dream for up to two months; just let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating so the texture stays creamy and the cheese melts just right.
Reheating
To reheat, pop portions in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works, too—cover loosely and heat in short bursts, stirring to ensure even, steamy deliciousness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While linguine gives a lovely, chewy bite and holds onto the cheesy garlic butter sauce, spaghetti or fettuccine make perfect substitutes if that’s what you have on hand.
What’s the best ground beef for this recipe?
Lean ground beef (about 90/10) works great because it’s flavorful yet doesn’t make the dish too greasy. If you use a fattier cut, just drain off any excess after browning the Beef.
Is Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Savory Ground Beef spicy?
No worries if you’re cooking for spice-sensitive folks—the red pepper flakes are totally optional. Leave them out for a purely savory, family-friendly pasta, or add a pinch more if you love heat!
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Toss in sautéed mushrooms, wilted spinach, or diced bell peppers when you add the garlic and seasonings. They work beautifully with the savory, cheesy flavors in this pasta.
How do I make the sauce extra creamy?
If you’re after even more lusciousness, swirl in a splash of cream or half-and-half with the butter. It’ll take your Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Savory Ground Beef to a decadent new level.
Final Thoughts
I hope you give Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Savory Ground Beef a try the next time you crave comfort food that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s easy, luscious, and sure to win over hearts at the table—so don’t be surprised if this pasta becomes a weekly favorite!
Print
Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Savory Ground Beef Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy, savory goodness of Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Savory Ground Beef. This easy-to-make pasta dish is a comforting blend of tender linguine coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, savory ground beef, and a decadent mix of cheeses.
Ingredients
Linguine Pasta:
- 12 ounces linguine pasta
Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup pasta water (reserved)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Linguine: Cook linguine until al dente, reserving ¼ cup of pasta water.
- Cook Ground Beef: Brown ground beef with olive oil, garlic, seasonings.
- Mix: Add butter, cooked linguine, pasta water, cheeses. Stir until creamy.
- Finish: Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Try swapping pasta shapes or adding vegetables like mushrooms or spinach.
- For a richer sauce, add a splash of cream to the dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 640
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 110mg