Spicy Garlic Beef Fettuccine in Provolone Sauce

Introduction

Few dishes bring together bold flavor and creamy comfort as beautifully as Spicy Garlic Beef Fettuccine in Provolone Sauce. The richness of tender beef paired with the subtle heat of garlic and spice creates a deeply satisfying pasta experience. Coated in a velvety provolone sauce, every strand of fettuccine absorbs layers of savory flavor. I first made this recipe on a chilly evening when I wanted something hearty yet refined, and it quickly became a favorite at the dinner table. The combination of spice and creamy cheese strikes the perfect balance, offering warmth without overwhelming heat. It feels indulgent yet approachable, making it suitable for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. If you enjoy pasta dishes that deliver bold character with a smooth, luxurious finish, this recipe will undoubtedly earn a permanent place in your rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines robust garlic flavor, tender beef, and a creamy provolone sauce that clings beautifully to fettuccine. It is comforting yet elevated, easy to prepare, and ideal for those who appreciate a subtle kick of spice balanced by rich cheese. The recipe uses simple ingredients while delivering restaurant-quality flavor.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fettuccine pasta
Wide, flat noodles are perfect for holding creamy sauces. Fettuccine provides the ideal texture to carry the provolone sauce evenly in every bite.

Beef sirloin
Thinly sliced beef sirloin cooks quickly and remains tender when seared properly. It offers a hearty, savory base for the dish.

Olive oil
Used for sautéing the beef and aromatics, olive oil adds subtle richness and prevents sticking.

Garlic
Fresh minced garlic provides the signature bold flavor. Its aroma intensifies when sautéed gently.

Red pepper flakes
These add controlled heat, giving the dish its spicy character without overpowering the creaminess.

Salt
Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the beef and sauce.

Black pepper
Adds depth and mild heat to complement the garlic and provolone.

Butter
Creates a rich base for the sauce and enhances its smooth texture.

All-purpose flour
Combined with butter to form a roux that thickens the sauce.

Whole milk
Provides creaminess and balances the spice. I once substituted part of the milk with light cream, and the sauce became even silkier.

Provolone cheese
Freshly shredded provolone melts smoothly and delivers a mild, slightly tangy flavor that defines the sauce.

Beef broth
Adds savory depth and reinforces the beef flavor throughout the dish.

Fresh parsley
Chopped parsley adds freshness and visual contrast when sprinkled on top.

Directions

Begin by cooking the fettuccine in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a small amount of pasta water before draining.

Season the sliced beef with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef quickly until browned but still tender. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add red pepper flakes and cook briefly to release their flavor. Remove the mixture and set aside with the beef.

To prepare the sauce, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for one to two minutes. Gradually pour in milk and beef broth while whisking continuously. Allow the mixture to thicken, then reduce heat and stir in shredded provolone cheese until smooth and creamy.

Return the cooked beef and garlic mixture to the skillet. Add the drained fettuccine and pour the provolone sauce over the top. Toss gently to coat evenly, adding reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Cook for two to three minutes until everything is heated through. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Equipment needed : Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: Approximately 40 minutes

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. Microwave reheating should be done in short intervals, stirring between each to prevent uneven heating.

Variations and Customizations

This recipe offers many opportunities for customization. For additional heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add finely chopped fresh chili peppers. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the spice and allow the provolone’s creamy notes to shine.

You can substitute beef sirloin with thinly sliced flank steak or even ground beef for a more rustic presentation. Chicken strips also work well if you prefer poultry over red meat.

For a more complex flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions. These additions deepen the savory character and pair beautifully with provolone.

If you want an even richer sauce, replace part of the milk with heavy cream. This creates a thicker, more luxurious texture. Alternatively, for a lighter version, use low-fat milk and reduce the cheese slightly.

Whole wheat fettuccine can be used for added fiber, while gluten-free pasta works well for those with dietary restrictions. Fresh spinach stirred in at the end adds color and nutritional value without altering the core flavor.

Finally, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan alongside provolone introduces a sharper edge that enhances the dish’s complexity.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

Approximate nutritional values per serving:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	680 kcal
Protein	38 g
Carbohydrates	58 g
Fat	34 g
Saturated Fat	17 g
Fiber	3 g
Sugar	6 g
Sodium	820 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Quick Sear for Tender Beef
Cook the beef over high heat briefly to maintain tenderness.

Control the Spice Level
Add red pepper flakes gradually and taste as you go.

Smooth Sauce Technique
Keep the heat moderate when melting cheese to prevent graininess.

Perfect Pasta Texture
Cook fettuccine just until al dente so it finishes cooking in the sauce.

Balanced Garnish
Fresh parsley adds brightness that complements the richness of the sauce.

FAQs

Can I make this dish less spicy?

Yes, simply reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, mozzarella or fontina can substitute, though provolone provides the signature flavor.

What cut of beef works best?

Sirloin is ideal due to its tenderness and quick cooking time.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

It is best served fresh, but it can be reheated gently with added milk.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Cream-based sauces may separate when frozen, so refrigeration is recommended.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers complement the dish well.

Conclusion

Spicy Garlic Beef Fettuccine in Provolone Sauce delivers bold flavor, creamy indulgence, and satisfying texture in every bite. The tender beef, aromatic garlic, and smooth provolone sauce combine to create a balanced dish that feels both comforting and refined. With simple preparation and adaptable ingredients, this recipe is perfect for elevating your pasta nights with minimal effort.

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