Garlic Butter Linguine with Savory Beef in Creamy Cheese Sauce
Ingredients:
1 lb linguine pasta
1 lb beef sirloin or ribeye, thinly sliced into strips
2 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
5 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a touch of heat)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Zest of 1 lemon (optional for added brightness)
Directions:
Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the linguine according to the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving a bit of pasta water for later if needed.
Cook the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the beef broth and stir to combine. Let it simmer for 2 minutes. Then, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan, mozzarella, and Pecorino Romano cheeses. Continue stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Season the Sauce: Add Italian seasoning, onion powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir until fully combined.
Combine the Beef and Pasta: Return the cooked beef to the skillet and stir it into the creamy sauce. Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat the pasta in the rich cheese sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
Finish and Garnish: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the remaining butter until melted. For a burst of freshness, sprinkle with chopped parsley, basil, and a zest of lemon. Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an extra crunch, if desired.
Serve: Dish out the creamy beef linguine onto plates and garnish with more grated Parmesan, fresh herbs, and extra lemon zest if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6