Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Beef, Sausage, and Spinach

Looking for a rich, satisfying pasta dish that combines bold flavors, creamy cheese sauce, and hearty meat? This Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Beef, Sausage, and Spinach is a decadent dinner that brings comfort and flavor to your table. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights, casual dinner parties, or anytime you crave something cheesy, garlicky, and downright indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average pasta dinner. It combines tender linguine noodles with savory ground beef, spicy Italian sausage, earthy spinach, and a luscious garlic cheese sauce that’s loaded with Parmesan and mozzarella. Every bite bursts with creamy, garlicky goodness, balanced with just the right amount of heat from Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound linguine pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 10 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ¼ 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

These ingredients come together to create an ultra-rich and layered flavor profile that’s savory, creamy, and a little spicy.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook until al dente, about 10 to 11 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside. A splash of olive oil can prevent it from sticking.

2. Cook the Meats

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking them up with a spatula as they cook. Sauté until fully browned, then drain the excess grease to keep the dish light and flavorful.

3. Sauté the Aromatics and Spinach

To the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute, just until fragrant. Add the thawed spinach and cook until fully heated through, about 2 to 3 minutes.

4. Make the Garlic Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to make a roux and cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the whole milk and chicken broth, stirring continuously until the mixture begins to thicken, about 5 to 7 minutes.

Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella, Cajun seasoning, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir gently until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth, creamy, and rich.

5. Combine and Serve

Add the cooked linguine to the cheese sauce, along with the meat and spinach mixture. Toss thoroughly to ensure every strand of pasta is coated with the luscious sauce. Serve hot, topped with extra Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley for added flavor and color.

Tips for the Best Cheesy Garlic Linguine

• Don’t overcook the pasta. Linguine should be slightly firm (al dente) to hold up well in the sauce.
• Drain spinach well. Excess water can thin the sauce and reduce creaminess.
• Spice it up. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or extra Cajun seasoning for a bolder kick.
• Use fresh garlic. It gives the sauce a sharper and more aromatic garlic flavor than powder.
• Customize your protein. Try ground turkey or chicken sausage as alternatives to beef and pork.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long as it may make the pasta mushy and break the sauce.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 780
• Protein: 34g
• Fat: 46g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
  Note: Values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient brands and portions.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This dish is hearty enough for family dinners, comforting enough for cold nights, and impressive enough to serve guests. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to complete the meal. For wine lovers, a glass of Chardonnay or light red Zinfandel complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Beef, Sausage, and Spinach delivers everything you want in a pasta dinner—richness, depth of flavor, and soul-satisfying comfort. From the creamy, garlicky cheese sauce to the hearty meats and nourishing spinach, it’s a complete meal packed with textures and tastes that will leave everyone coming back for seconds.

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