Creamy Parmesan Beef Linguine with Garlic Butter Sauce

Save this recipe on:

When comfort food needs to feel a little fancy, this Creamy Parmesan Beef Linguine with Garlic Butter Sauce steps in like a dream. Twirls of tender linguine are coated in a velvety Parmesan cream sauce, crowned with rich, juicy beef, and kissed by a hint of garlic butter that makes every bite memorable. It’s an ideal dinner for cozy nights or when you’re just in the mood to indulge in something truly satisfying.

This dish is about layers of savory depth. The beef is browned to perfection and simmered gently to lock in bold flavor. Meanwhile, the sauce becomes irresistibly creamy thanks to a slow infusion of heavy cream and aged Parmesan. Each element plays its part, but it’s the balance between silky pasta and umami-packed meat that makes this dish so irresistible.

---

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Linguine works beautifully here because it holds onto that creamy sauce with just enough surface area to deliver a perfectly coated forkful every time. However, fettuccine or tagliatelle can easily sub in without sacrificing texture or flavor.

---

Ingredients for the Creamy Parmesan Beef Linguine with Garlic Butter Sauce

Linguine Pasta – A sturdy yet elegant noodle that catches sauce in all the right places.

Ground Beef (80/20 blend) – Rich and flavorful, the slight fat content adds depth and keeps the meat tender.

Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated) – Aged Parmesan adds a nutty, salty profile that melts beautifully into the sauce.

Heavy Cream – The secret to a truly velvety texture.

Garlic (minced) – Adds warmth and an aromatic bite to both the beef and butter sauce.

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and blends with garlic to create a luscious finishing sauce.

Olive Oil – Used to brown the beef and garlic without burning.

Salt & Cracked Black Pepper – Essential for bringing out all the natural flavors.

Fresh Parsley (chopped) – Optional, but adds color and brightness.

Red Pepper Flakes – Just a touch for heat if desired.

---

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

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook linguine until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil and cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Break it up as it cooks, then season with salt and pepper. Remove beef and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 4: Create the Cream Sauce

Lower the heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, then whisk in the Parmesan until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Combine Beef and Pasta

Return the beef to the skillet and add the cooked linguine. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a splash at a time.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish with cracked black pepper, chopped parsley, and red pepper flakes if using. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

---

Serving and Storing This Creamy Parmesan Beef Linguine

This dish is best enjoyed fresh while the sauce is warm and silky. Pair it with crusty bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and revive the texture. Avoid the microwave if possible—a skillet on low heat does a better job keeping everything luscious.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another type of meat?

Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage would also work well in this recipe. Just adjust seasoning accordingly.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese, but the texture will be slightly lighter.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

It’s not ideal. The cream sauce can separate once frozen and thawed. It’s best made fresh.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Absolutely. Just swap in your favorite gluten-free linguine or pasta.

How can I make it spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or stir in a spoonful of chili garlic paste for a bigger kick.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Skip the beef and add sautéed mushrooms or plant-based ground meat instead.

---

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you love this creamy beef linguine, you might enjoy these other pasta creations from Life with Jam:

• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for a bold, cheesy dinner.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli for that savory comfort bowl.
• Skillet Ricotta Pasta with Roasted Broccoli when you want a light and herby touch.
• Red Pepper Rigatoni if you crave a hint of heat in your cream sauce.
• One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta for a no-fuss variation with cozy flavor.

---

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add mushrooms or give it a spicy twist? Maybe you went extra on the Parmesan?

I love hearing how you make these meals your own. Questions are always welcome—let’s help each other make dinner a little more delicious.

👉 For daily recipes and kitchen inspiration, check out my Pinterest board: Life with Jam on Pinterest

---

Print

Save this recipe on: