Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

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Introduction

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together hearty flavors in one satisfying dish. Tender beef, perfectly al dente bowtie pasta, and a rich, garlicky butter sauce create a mouthwatering combination, while melted cheese adds a creamy, indulgent finish. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a cozy meal to share with family, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.

The first time I made this, I was amazed at how effortlessly it came together. Browning the beef, infusing the butter with garlic, and watching the cheese melt into the warm pasta felt like crafting the perfect balance of savory goodness. The aroma alone—garlic, butter, and sizzling beef—made it hard to wait until serving time!

What I love most about Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is its versatility. You can swap ground beef for Italian sausage, add a handful of spinach for a fresh twist, or mix in crushed red pepper for a bit of heat. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a crisp salad, and you have a complete meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious. No matter how you customize it, this dish is pure, cheesy perfection in every bite.

Perfect for:

  • Quick family dinners
  • Comfort food cravings
  • Meal prepping
  • Potluck gatherings
  • Pasta lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter will become a favorite:

  • Rich and Savory: The combination of seasoned beef, garlic butter, and melted cheese creates an incredibly satisfying dish.
  • Easy and Quick: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
  • One-Pan Friendly: Can be made in one skillet for easy cleanup.
  • Customizable: Add veggies, spices, or different cheeses to suit your taste.
  • Kid-Approved: The creamy, cheesy goodness makes it a hit with kids and adults alike.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 50g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter:

  • 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 ½ cups beef broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: Crushed red pepper for extra spice

Ingredient Highlights

  • Bowtie Pasta: Holds onto sauce well, making each bite flavorful.
  • Ground Beef: Provides a hearty, protein-rich base for the dish.
  • Garlic Butter: Adds a rich, aromatic depth of flavor.
  • Mozzarella and Parmesan: Create a creamy, cheesy finish.
  • Beef Broth and Heavy Cream: Combine for a velvety, rich sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

  1. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook Pasta: Add bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Beef:

  1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess grease if needed.
  2. Season the Beef: Add Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well.

Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:

  1. Melt Butter: Push the beef to one side of the skillet and add butter. Let it melt.
  2. Sauté Garlic: Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir to combine with the beef.

Create the Creamy Sauce:

  1. Pour in Beef Broth: Add beef broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.
  2. Add Heavy Cream: Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Combine Everything:

  1. Mix in Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
  2. Add Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the pasta, stirring until melted and fully combined.

Garnish and Serve:

  1. Sprinkle Fresh Parsley: Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
  2. Serve Hot: Enjoy immediately with extra Parmesan on top if desired.

How to Serve

  • With Garlic Bread – Serve with warm, crispy garlic bread to soak up the extra buttery sauce.
  • Topped with Fresh Herbs – Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a burst of freshness.
  • With a Side Salad – Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette for balance.
  • Sprinkled with Extra Cheese – Add a final touch of grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella before serving.
  • With Roasted Vegetables – Serve alongside roasted asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrients.
  • As a Baked Dish – Transfer the pasta to a baking dish, top with cheese, and broil for a few minutes for a crispy top.
  • Paired with a Glass of Wine – Enjoy with a glass of red wine like Merlot or Chianti for a perfect pairing.
  • With a Spicy Kick – Serve with red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra heat.
  • Family-Style Platter – Present it in a large serving dish so everyone can help themselves.
  • With a Light Soup – Start the meal with a bowl of tomato or minestrone soup for a cozy combination.

Additional Tips

  • Use High-Quality Cheese – Opt for freshly shredded cheese like cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan for a richer, creamier texture.
  • Season the Beef Well – Enhance flavor by seasoning the ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of Italian seasoning.
  • Cook Pasta Al Dente – Slightly undercook the bowtie pasta so it absorbs the sauce without becoming mushy.
  • Reserve Pasta Water – Save about ½ cup of pasta water to help emulsify the sauce and make it silkier.
  • Sauté Garlic in Butter First – Allow the garlic to gently cook in butter over low heat to release its full aroma without burning.
  • Add a Creamy Touch – Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese for an extra velvety texture.
  • Boost Flavor with Broth – Instead of plain water, cook the pasta in beef or chicken broth for deeper flavor.
  • Use a Cast Iron Skillet – Cooking in a cast iron skillet helps develop a better sear on the beef and enhances the dish’s flavor.
  • Garnish for Freshness – Top with fresh herbs like parsley or basil and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a burst of color and taste.
  • Let It Rest – Allow the pasta to sit for a few minutes before serving so the flavors meld together perfectly.

Recipe Variations

  1. Spicy Cajun Version: Add Cajun seasoning and swap mozzarella for pepper jack cheese.
  2. Mushroom & Spinach Pasta: Add sautéed mushrooms and fresh spinach for extra nutrients.
  3. Tomato Basil Pasta: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil for a bright, fresh taste.
  4. Alfredo-Style: Use extra heavy cream and Parmesan for a richer, Alfredo-like sauce.
  5. Mexican Twist: Replace Italian seasoning with taco seasoning and top with cheddar cheese.
  6. Creamy Pesto Pasta: Add a spoonful of pesto to the sauce for a fresh, herby kick.
  7. Bacon Lover’s Version: Stir in crispy bacon bits for added smoky flavor.
  8. Cheeseburger Pasta: Use cheddar cheese instead of mozzarella for a cheeseburger-inspired dish.
  9. Low-Carb Version: Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
  10. Chicken and Bowtie Pasta: Replace ground beef with shredded or grilled chicken.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth to maintain creaminess.
  • Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a little extra butter.

Special Equipment

  • Large Pot – To boil the bowtie pasta evenly without sticking.
  • Colander – For draining the pasta while keeping its texture intact.
  • Large Skillet or Sauté Pan – To cook the beef and garlic butter sauce together.
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula – For stirring and breaking up the ground beef as it cooks.
  • Box Grater – If using fresh cheese, grating it yourself helps with better melting.
  • Garlic Press – For mincing garlic quickly and evenly.
  • Whisk – Helps blend butter, garlic, and seasonings smoothly.
  • Tongs – Useful for tossing pasta with the cheesy garlic butter sauce.
  • Ovenproof Dish (Optional) – If you want to broil the pasta for a crispy cheese top.
  • Microplane Zester (Optional) – To add fresh Parmesan or zest for extra flavor.

FAQ

  1. Can I use a different pasta shape? Yes! Penne, rotini, or rigatoni work well.
  2. Can I make this without heavy cream? Yes, substitute with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version.
  3. What’s the best cheese for this recipe? Mozzarella for meltiness, Parmesan for sharpness, or a blend of both.
  4. Can I make it vegetarian? Yes! Replace beef with mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based ground meat.
  5. How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick? Add a splash of pasta water or broth while stirring.

Conclusion

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is a rich, comforting dish that’s packed with flavor and effortless to make. With tender bowtie pasta, savory ground beef, and a luscious garlic butter sauce, every bite is a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or a satisfying meal prep option, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite.

Easily customizable with your choice of cheeses, seasonings, or added veggies, this pasta is as versatile as it is delicious. Serve it hot, garnish with fresh parsley or extra parmesan, and enjoy a comforting, flavor-packed meal that never disappoints.

I can’t wait to see your take on this dish! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see how you make it your own. Don’t forget to share your favorite twists in the comments. Happy cooking!

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