If you’re craving a satisfying, cheesy dinner that’s quick and easy, look no further than Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter! This dish features savory ground beef, tender bowtie pasta, and a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce that’s packed with flavor. The melty cheese brings it all together for a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a perfect balance of hearty, comforting flavors. The creamy garlic butter sauce coats every piece of pasta, making it rich and indulgent, while the shredded cheese adds extra creaminess and a gooey, cheesy finish. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or something to impress guests, this dish is sure to hit the spot.
You can also customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Bowtie Pasta – This fun pasta shape holds the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Ground Beef – The main protein of the dish, providing savory richness.
- Garlic Butter – The base for the creamy, flavorful sauce.
- Shredded Cheese – Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend for gooey, melty goodness.
- Olive Oil – For cooking the beef.
- Seasonings – Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for the perfect balance.
How to Make Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions in salted water. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, then drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, creating the base for your creamy sauce.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Beef
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce and toss to coat. Stir in the browned beef and mix until well incorporated.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the pasta and beef mixture. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and everything becomes creamy and cheesy.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Serve the dish hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta
- Add Vegetables: For a more balanced meal, add spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a more intense, vibrant flavor compared to pre-minced garlic.
- Choose the Right Cheese: Try different cheeses like Parmesan, mozzarella, or sharp cheddar for extra flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Busy Weeknights
This dish is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and under 30 minutes of your time. It’s the perfect comfort food for hectic evenings when you need something quick yet indulgent. The minimal prep and cleanup make it an ideal option for a stress-free dinner.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: Pair with a crisp side salad or garlic bread to round out the meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted broccoli or green beans for extra nutrition.
- Garnish: Top with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an extra burst of flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerating Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2-3 months in a freezer-safe container. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- Reheating: Add a splash of milk or butter when reheating to restore the creamy texture.
- Meal Prep: Divide into individual portions for easy grab-and-go lunches.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, feel free to swap bowtie pasta for other shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef? Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken makes a leaner option while still being delicious.
Can I make this ahead of time? You can prepare the beef and pasta ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and combine them with the garlic butter sauce and cheese when you’re ready to serve.
How can I make this spicier? Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the garlic butter sauce for a spicy kick.
Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter combines all the creamy, cheesy goodness of comfort food with the rich, savory flavor of seasoned beef and garlic. Perfect for busy nights, meal prepping, or serving at family gatherings, this dish will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation. Try it today, and watch it become a favorite!
Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340g) bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 additional cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (240ml) milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Bowtie Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain and set aside. - Cook the Beef Mixture:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook until the onion is soft, about 3 minutes. Stir in Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Remove the beef mixture from the skillet and set aside. - Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it begins to thicken, about 3 minutes. - Combine Everything:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Add the cooked pasta and beef mixture to the skillet, tossing to coat everything evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it. - Serve:
Transfer the cheesy beef and bowtie pasta to serving bowls. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot.
Notes:
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for extra flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop with a splash of milk.