Gather these ingredients to create this delectable dish:
- 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
Directions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Beef, Sausage, and Spinach:
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine until al dente, about 10–11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking them up as they cook. Sauté until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
- Step 3: Add the chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the spinach and cook until heated through, about 2–3 minutes.
- Step 4: 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, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 5–7 minutes.
- Step 5: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, Cajun seasoning, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Step 6: Add the cooked linguine to the sauce along with the beef, sausage, and spinach mixture. Toss everything together until the linguine is fully coated in the rich, garlicky cheese sauce.
- Step 7: Serve hot with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or chopped fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes! You can substitute linguine with any pasta of your choice, such as fettuccine or penne.
2. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish holds up well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
3. How can I make it vegetarian?
Skip the meat and replace it with mushrooms or a plant-based sausage, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
4. What can I serve with this dish?
This linguine pairs well with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers; just make sure to store it in an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion
Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine with Beef, Sausage, and Spinach is a delightful, comforting dish that is perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. The creamy sauce, savory meat, and nutritious spinach makes it a winner at the dinner table. Follow this recipe for an unforgettable culinary experience!