Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Beef, Sausage & Spinach

Gather these ingredients for a deliciously cheesy experience:

• 1 lb linguine pasta
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 lb beef sausage, casings removed
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions

Follow these steps to create your dish:

• Step 1: Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine until al dente, about 10-11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
• Step 2: Cook the Meats: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground beef and sausage, breaking them apart. Sauté until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
• Step 3: Add Aromatics & Spinach: Add the chopped onion to the meat mixture and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute. Then, add the spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
• Step 4: Make the Garlic Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, cooking while stirring until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
• Step 5: Add the Flavor: Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan, mozzarella, Cajun seasoning, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
• Step 6: Combine Everything: Add the cooked linguine and the meat-spinach mixture to the sauce. Toss until fully coated in the cheesy, garlicky goodness.
• Step 7: Serve: Serve hot with extra Parmesan or fresh parsley on top.

Nutritional Information

This recipe yields about 6 servings, each containing approximately 780 calories. The hearty combination of proteins and vegetables ensures a satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

5 FAQ Pairs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While linguine is the star here, feel free to swap it out for fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free pasta.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meat and cheese sauce in advance. Combine everything just before serving to retain the best texture.

3. What’s a good substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and butter if you’re looking to lighten the dish.

4. How can I make it spicier?

To add heat, you can include diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a few dashes of hot sauce in the meat mixture or cheese sauce.

5. Can I add extra vegetables?

Definitely! You can incorporate bell peppers, mushrooms, or even zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Beef, Sausage, and Spinach is a must-try recipe that delivers both comfort and indulgence. With its creamy texture, rich flavors, and satisfying elements, it’s sure to become a beloved dish in your home. Perfect for feeding a crowd or simply enjoying a special dinner with family, this meal is a step towards culinary happiness!