Creamy Parmesan Beef Linguine with Garlic Butter Sauce

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This Creamy Parmesan Beef Linguine with Garlic Butter Sauce is what pasta dreams are made of. It’s rich, savory, and loaded with tender ground beef simmered in a luscious cream sauce packed with parmesan and fragrant garlic butter. The silky linguine noodles soak up all that goodness, creating a restaurant-style meal right at home. It’s comforting, quick enough for a weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough to serve guests.

What makes this dish unforgettable is the luxurious blend of creamy cheese with the deep, meaty flavor of the beef. The garlic butter adds warmth, while a sprinkle of fresh herbs brings brightness that cuts through the richness just enough. One twirl of your fork through that glistening mound of pasta, and you’ll understand why this one’s a keeper.

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What Kind of Parmesan Should I Use?

Always go for freshly grated parmesan if possible. Pre-shredded varieties often have anti-caking agents that prevent them from melting smoothly into the sauce. A wedge of Parmigiano-Reggiano or Grana Padano grated just before adding will make all the difference. You want a cheese that melts like velvet into the sauce and enhances that garlic-butter depth.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Parmesan Beef Linguine with Garlic Butter Sauce

Ground Beef: The base protein of the dish, providing hearty flavor and texture. Opt for 80/20 ground beef for balanced flavor and fat.

Linguine Pasta: This wide, flat noodle is ideal for catching every drop of that rich cream sauce.

Garlic Butter: The soul of the sauce. Sautéed garlic in melted butter creates a fragrant, silky base for everything else.

Heavy Cream: Gives the sauce its rich, luscious consistency.

Parmesan Cheese: Adds savory depth and thickens the sauce naturally as it melts in.

Onion: Diced finely and sautéed with the beef for added sweetness and flavor.

Italian Seasoning: A balanced blend of herbs that complements the garlic and beef.

Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.

Fresh Parsley or Thyme (optional): A bright garnish to cut the richness and add color.

Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For a subtle kick of heat that pairs well with the creamy sauce.

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How To Make the Creamy Parmesan Beef Linguine with Garlic Butter Sauce

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion, sautéing until fragrant and translucent—about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it apart with a wooden spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 4: Build the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if using. Let it simmer for 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the noodles in the sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to help loosen the sauce and coat everything evenly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or thyme. Serve hot, optionally topped with extra parmesan and a twist of black pepper.

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Serving and Storing Creamy Parmesan Beef Linguine

Serve this dish piping hot as soon as the sauce has coated the noodles beautifully. Pair it with a light green salad or crusty garlic bread to balance the richness. A glass of dry white wine also works beautifully alongside.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. It reheats surprisingly well without losing its creamy texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Fettuccine, tagliatelle, or even penne would hold the sauce well. Stick to sturdy pastas that can handle rich sauces.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken. It won’t be as rich, but still delicious.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the beef sauce ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat and toss with fresh pasta right before serving.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, the sauce freezes well on its own. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes would blend beautifully into the sauce and add extra nutrition.

How do I keep the sauce from getting too thick?

Reserve some pasta water and add it slowly while tossing the pasta to help loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.

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Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Creamy Parmesan Beef Linguine, try these other savory pasta dishes that bring bold flavors and cozy comfort:

• Garlic Parmesan Beef Spaghetti Pasta for a classic beefy twist.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta if you love the richness of cream-based sauces.
• Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Velveeta Beef Sauce for a cheesy, nostalgic dinner.
• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine to try a lemony twist on creamy pasta.
• One Skillet Cheesy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak Pasta for spice lovers who enjoy creamy heat.

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I love hearing how others bring their personal spin to these recipes. If you have questions, ask away—we’re in this pasta journey together.

More daily meal inspiration? Follow me on Pinterest @LifeWithNinaRecipes and explore all the flavorful meals I share each week.

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