Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Beef, Sausage and Spinach

Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Beef, Sausage and Spinach

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There are some pasta dishes that feel like a warm hug, and this Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Beef, Sausage and Spinach is absolutely one of them. It delivers rich, meaty flavor, luscious cheesy sauce, and a garlicky buttery twist that makes it unforgettable. Each forkful is comforting, packed with savory protein, and balanced by tender wilted spinach.

What makes this dish extra special is its ability to be weeknight-easy yet dinner-party-impressive. The beef and sausage combo adds deep flavor, while the spinach sneaks in some greens. And that creamy cheese sauce? It coats the linguine in a way that makes every bite silky and rich. You don’t need a special occasion to make this, but it’ll feel like one when you do.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine

This dish has that perfect balance of indulgence and hearty satisfaction. It’s easy enough to make on a busy evening but also crowd-pleasing enough to serve at your next get-together. The garlic butter base makes the flavors pop, and when mixed with cheese, it becomes absolutely irresistible. Plus, the use of both beef and sausage gives it a bold, meaty depth you won’t forget.

What Kind of Sausage Should I Use?

Mild or sweet Italian sausage is ideal for this recipe. It complements the beef without overpowering the cheesy garlic notes. If you love a little kick, a spicy Italian sausage can turn up the heat. Look for bulk sausage (uncased) so it crumbles nicely with the ground beef. Just make sure it’s fully cooked and browned before adding to the sauce.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Beef, Sausage and Spinach

This recipe brings together bold ingredients to build layers of flavor. You’ll be combining savory meats, buttery garlic, tender spinach, and creamy cheese to create the ultimate comfort dish. The magic happens when they all meld with the linguine to create a silky, rich coating.

  • Linguine
  • Ground beef
  • Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
  • Fresh spinach
  • Butter
  • Garlic cloves
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Cream cheese
  • Milk or heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)
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How To Make the Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Beef, Sausage and Spinach

Step 1: Brown the Meats

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until fully browned. Break the meat into small crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the meat cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, melt the butter and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Reduce heat to low. Stir in cream cheese and milk (or cream) until melted and smooth. Add Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the browned meat back into the sauce along with the cooked linguine and reserved pasta water. Toss well to coat.

Step 6: Add the Spinach

Gently fold in fresh spinach until just wilted. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

Serving and Storing Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Beef, Sausage and Spinach

This dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh, straight from the skillet. The cheese sauce is at its peak creaminess when just made, making it the perfect main dish to serve for dinner. It generously feeds 4 to 6 people, depending on appetite and whether you’re serving sides.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce and warm on the stovetop or microwave until heated through. It won’t be quite as silky as the first time, but still absolutely delicious.

What to Serve With Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine?

Garlic Bread

A slice of crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover cheese sauce.

Caesar Salad

The cool, crisp textures and tangy dressing balance out the rich, cheesy pasta beautifully.

Roasted Broccoli

Oven-roasted broccoli brings earthy flavor and a bit of crunch to your plate.

Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil are a refreshing contrast.

Roasted Asparagus

A simple roasted asparagus spears add a vibrant, slightly nutty finish.

Lemon Butter Green Beans

A zesty side that complements the creamy richness of the main dish.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy and buttery mushrooms can echo the garlic flavors without overpowering.

Antipasto Skewers

A fun starter option with marinated olives, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and salami.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Beef, Sausage and Spinach, then you’re bound to enjoy these cozy and flavorful pasta recipes from Janet Dishes:

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 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 go for spicy sausage or stick with mild? Did you use heavy cream or lighten it up with milk?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other make weeknight meals feel special.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and delicious meals on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your next dinner favorite!

Conclusion

Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Beef, Sausage and Spinach is that crave-worthy dinner that brings everyone to the table. It’s indulgent but not complicated, satisfying without being heavy, and packed with the kinds of flavors that keep you coming back for seconds. Whether you’re feeding a family or treating yourself, this is one pasta dish you’ll want in your regular rotation.

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Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Beef, Sausage and Spinach


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  • Author: Janet Reynolds
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4–6 servings

Description

Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Beef, Sausage and Spinach is the ultimate comfort food. This creamy pasta recipe combines hearty beef and Italian sausage with spinach and a luscious garlic butter cheese sauce. Ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this linguine dish is rich, satisfying, and full of bold flavor.


Ingredients

450 g linguine

225 g ground beef

225 g Italian sausage (mild or spicy, uncased)

4 cups fresh spinach

4 tablespoons butter

4 garlic cloves, minced

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

115 g cream cheese

3/4 cup milk or heavy cream

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)


Instructions

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat. Break into small pieces while cooking. Drain excess fat and set aside.

2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Reduce heat to low. Stir in cream cheese and milk or cream. Mix until smooth, then add Parmesan and continue stirring until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

5. Return cooked beef and sausage to the skillet. Add the drained linguine and reserved pasta water. Toss to coat evenly.

6. Fold in fresh spinach and stir until just wilted. Serve hot with extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Make sure to use uncased sausage so it crumbles well.

For lighter flavor, use milk instead of heavy cream.

Add a splash of pasta water when reheating leftovers to revive the sauce.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Pasta
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1.5 cups
  • Calories: 640
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 780 mg
  • Fat: 38 g
  • Saturated Fat: 18 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg

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