If you’re on the hunt for a satisfying and flavor-packed meal that comes together in a flash, look no further than Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Beef, Sausage, and Spinach. This delightful dish marries tender linguine with a silken garlic butter sauce, dotted with perfectly browned ground beef and spicy Italian sausage. Finish it off with a creamy blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses and a vibrant pop of fresh spinach, and you have yourself a dinner that will quickly become a family favorite!
The beauty of this meal lies not only in its irresistible taste but also in its simplicity. Perfect for weeknight dining, this recipe offers a rich and comforting taste while requiring minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for busy individuals or families looking to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Packed with flavor, this is also a great option for all those cheesy comfort food lovers out there!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine
Here’s why this dish will become your go-to dinner:
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, butter, beef, and sausages creates a rich sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta, while the fresh spinach adds a burst of color and nutrients.
- Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cook time of just 35 minutes, this meal is perfect for hurried weeknights.
- Family-Friendly: With its comforting cheesy goodness, this linguine dish is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
- Versatile: Feel free to mix in your favorite veg or substitute proteins to suit your preference.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into this delicious recipe, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen for cooking. Make sure you have:
- A large pot for boiling the linguine, a must-have for any pasta dish.
- A large skill that can handle the beef and sausage while allowing for ample space to combine with the other ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient quantities.
- Chopping board and knife for mincing garlic and preparing spinach.
Gathering all the ingredients beforehand will make the cooking process smoother. It’s always a good practice to prep your garlic and spinach in advance so they’re ready to go when it’s time to cook!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this cheesy masterpiece:
- 12 oz linguine
- 0.5 lb ground beef
- 0.5 lb Italian sausage
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 0.5 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 0.25 cup reserved pasta water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Linguine
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in the linguine and cook according to package instructions until it’s just shy of al dente. This is important as you’ll be finishing the cooking process in the sauce. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta, as that water will play a crucial role in loosening the sauce later.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Heat up your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula to ensure it cooks evenly. Allow it to cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the meat is nicely browned. Be sure to drain off any excess fat, leaving about a tablespoon in the pan to keep the flavors intact.
Step 3: Add Butter and Garlic
Once the meat is cooked through, reduce the heat to medium and push the meat to one side. Add the unsalted butter to the other side of the skillet. As the butter melts, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 30 to 60 seconds until you can smell the delicious aroma of garlic filling your kitchen.
Step 4: Incorporate Spinach
With the garlic fragrant, add the chopped spinach into the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring it well to combine with the meat and garlic butter. It should wilt nicely and add a lovely green color to the dish.
Step 5: Combine the Linguine
Next, carefully toss the cooked linguine into the skillet with the meat and spinach mixture. Mix thoroughly, ensuring that the noodles are well-coated in that flavorful garlic butter sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency.
Step 6: Melt the Cheese
Now comes the cheesy goodness! Sprinkle both the mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the linguine and stir well until the cheese melts and becomes beautifully intertwined with the pasta.
Step 7: Season and Serve
Finally, season with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes to your taste. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or chili flakes on top for a delightful kick!
Variations
- Protein: Substitute the ground beef or Italian sausage with turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option.
- Vegetables: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or even sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices like Italian seasoning or fresh basil for added depth.
Cooking Notes
- This dish can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free linguine.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a simple green salad to complement the richness of the pasta.
- For a heartier meal, serve with garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables.
Tips
- To keep the pasta from sticking together, try to toss it with a bit of olive oil immediately after draining.
- Feel free to add more cheese if you love that gooey texture!
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 600 (per serving)
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 900mg
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While linguine works beautifully, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine, penne, or even spaghetti.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Just reheat with a splash of water or broth to combat dryness.
Can I freeze leftovers?
While fresh pasta dishes are best enjoyed immediately, you can freeze leftovers. Ensure they are in an airtight container, and they will last for up to a month.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a crisp salad or light garlic bread. For an elegant touch, add a glass of white wine!
Conclusion
Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Beef, Sausage, and Spinach is the epitome of a satisfying meal. From its rich flavors to its comfort-food appeal, this dish fits perfectly into any weeknight dinner rotation. By now, you’re equipped with easy steps to create this culinary delight in your kitchen. Don’t forget to share your experience or any creative twists you make to the recipe in the comments below. Happy cooking!
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Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Beef and Spinach
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
If you're on the hunt for a satisfying and flavor-packed meal that comes together in a flash, look no further than Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Beef, Sausage, and Spinach.
Ingredients
- 12 oz linguine
- 0.5 lb ground beef
- 0.5 lb Italian sausage
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 0.5 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 0.25 cup reserved pasta water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in the linguine and cook according to package instructions until it's just shy of al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta.
- Heat up your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula to ensure it cooks evenly. Allow it to cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the meat is nicely browned.
- Once the meat is cooked through, reduce the heat to medium and push the meat to one side. Add the unsalted butter to the other side of the skillet. As the butter melts, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the chopped spinach into the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring to combine with the meat and garlic butter.
- Carefully toss the cooked linguine into the skillet with the meat and spinach mixture. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Sprinkle both the mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the linguine and stir well until melted and part of the sauce.
- Finally, season with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes to taste. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or chili flakes if desired.
Notes
This dish can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free linguine. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Protein: 30 g