Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
A hearty and satisfying dish, Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is the perfect balance of rich flavors and comforting textures. Tender bowtie pasta pairs beautifully with seasoned ground beef, all coated in a luscious garlic butter sauce that elevates every bite.
Melted mozzarella and Parmesan create a creamy, cheesy finish, making this dish an irresistible choice for busy weeknights. The addition of Italian seasoning and a touch of red pepper flakes adds depth and warmth, ensuring every forkful is packed with flavor.
Simple to prepare and ready in just 35 minutes, this stovetop meal is a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner or an easy family favorite, this cheesy pasta dish is sure to impress.
Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter: Essential Ingredients
Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle) – The perfect canvas for this dish, its ridged surface and delicate shape expertly cradle the creamy garlic butter sauce, ensuring every bite is rich and flavorful.
Ground Beef – A hearty foundation that brings depth and savoriness, infusing the dish with robust, meaty goodness that pairs beautifully with the silky sauce.
Garlic Butter – The soul of the dish, this aromatic blend creates a luscious, velvety coating that enhances every ingredient with its rich, buttery warmth.
Mozzarella & Parmesan – A dynamic duo of cheeses, offering melty indulgence and a salty, nutty finish that ties the dish together with irresistible creaminess.
Italian Seasoning & Red Pepper Flakes – A hint of herbs and a whisper of heat add complexity, balancing the richness with layers of aromatic depth.
Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
A warm, comforting dish that blends tender bowtie pasta with rich, seasoned beef, all wrapped in a creamy garlic butter sauce. This quick and easy meal is perfect for weeknights, offering a satisfying combination of flavors and textures that the whole family will love.
Recipe Tips
1. Enhance the Flavor with Fresh Ingredients
For the best taste, use fresh garlic instead of pre-minced or powdered garlic. Freshly grated Parmesan also makes a significant difference, adding a nutty richness that pre-packaged versions can’t replicate. If possible, opt for high-quality mozzarella for better melt and stretch.
2. Control the Sauce Consistency
The garlic butter sauce should be creamy but not overly thick. If the sauce turns out too thick, add small amounts of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for an extra minute or two until it reaches the perfect consistency.
3. Customize for Dietary Preferences
This dish is versatile! Swap ground beef for ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor. For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of whole milk, or replace some of the cheese with nutritional yeast for a dairy-reduced option.
What to Serve with Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta
1. Garlic Bread
A side of warm, crispy garlic bread pairs beautifully with this dish. The crunchy texture contrasts with the creamy pasta, and the garlicky, buttery flavor enhances the richness of the sauce.
2. Simple Green Salad
A light salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the pasta. The acidity from the dressing cuts through the cheesy goodness, making every bite feel fresh and satisfying.
3. Roasted Vegetables
Oven-roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color, texture, and a slightly sweet contrast to the savory pasta dish. Roasting enhances the natural flavors, making them a simple yet delicious side.
FAQ
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the pasta and beef mixture in advance and store them separately. When ready to serve, reheat everything in a skillet, adding a splash of milk or pasta water to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.
2. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a bit of milk or water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving too long, as it can make the cheese clumpy.
3. Can I freeze this dish?
While you can freeze it, the sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. If freezing, store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat slowly on the stovetop, stirring frequently to bring back the creamy consistency.
4. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta holds the sauce well, penne, rotini, or fettuccine work just as well. Choose a shape that clings to the sauce for the best flavor in every bite.
This dish is a comforting, family-friendly meal that’s both easy to make and endlessly customizable. Enjoy it with your favorite sides for a restaurant-quality experience at home!
Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
Ingredients
- For the Pasta and Beef:
- – 2 tablespoons olive oil
- – 1 lb 450g ground beef
- – 1 small onion finely chopped
- – 2 cloves garlic minced
- – 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- – ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- – Salt and pepper to taste
- – 12 oz 340g bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- – 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 water to a rolling boil and season generously with salt. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then set the pasta aside.
- Prepare the Beef Mixture:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it browns evenly, approximately 5-7 minutes. Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent, about 3 minutes. Incorporate the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using), seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the cooked beef mixture from the skillet and set it aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes, creating a smooth roux. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking, ensuring a lump-free consistency. Allow the mixture to simmer gently until it thickens, approximately 3 minutes.
- Combine Everything:
- Reduce the heat to low and gradually mix in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan, stirring until fully melted and smooth. Return the cooked pasta and beef mixture to the skillet, tossing to ensure even coating in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, incorporate small amounts of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is achieved.
- Serve:
- Portion the cheesy beef and bowtie pasta into serving bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy.