Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter: A Rich and Flavorful Delight

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender pasta, savory beef, and a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce that’s simply irresistible. This dish is packed with flavor and comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or any time you want to indulge in something deliciously comforting. The garlic butter sauce, with its smooth texture and cheesy goodness, perfectly coats the bowtie pasta, while the ground beef adds heartiness and depth to each bite.

Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or just love a good cheesy pasta dish, this recipe will not disappoint. It’s versatile enough to accommodate your flavor preferences and can be customized with extra veggies or spices to suit your tastes. Plus, with the addition of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, it’s the perfect creamy, cheesy indulgence for cheese lovers everywhere. Prepare yourself for a meal that’s bound to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

1. Full of Flavor

The combination of garlic, butter, and cheese creates a rich, flavorful sauce that perfectly complements the savory beef and tender pasta.

2. Quick and Easy to Prepare

With simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, this dish can be made in under 30 minutes—ideal for busy nights when you’re craving something comforting.

3. Family-Friendly

This dish is perfect for all ages, especially if you have kids who love pasta and cheese. It’s sure to become a staple in your household.

4. Cheesy Goodness

Mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses create a creamy, melty sauce that’s absolutely irresistible and will leave you craving more.

5. Versatile and Customizable

Add your favorite veggies, switch up the seasonings, or try different types of cheese for a personalized twist on this already-delicious dish.

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Ingredients

For the Pasta and Beef:

• Bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• Ground beef
• Olive oil
• Onion, finely chopped
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Italian seasoning
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• Unsalted butter
• Garlic cloves, minced
• All-purpose flour
• Milk (whole or 2%)
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.
• Add Veggies: You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or peas for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Make it Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to kick up the heat in this dish.
• Different Cheese: Swap out the mozzarella for a cheese with a sharper flavor, such as sharp cheddar, or add a mix of cheeses for extra depth.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent.

Step 4: Add Seasonings and Beef

Stir in the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the cooked ground beef back into the skillet and stir to combine.

Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for another minute, forming a roux.

Step 6: Add Milk and Cheese

Slowly whisk in the milk, and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the beef and seasonings. Pour the garlic butter sauce over the pasta and toss everything together until well coated.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the pasta for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve immediately.

Tips for Making Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente to prevent it from becoming too soft and mushy in the final dish.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic will provide the best flavor in both the beef mixture and the garlic butter sauce.
• Make the Sauce Smooth: When adding the milk to the roux, make sure to whisk continuously to avoid lumps.
• Adjust the Cheese: Add more cheese if you prefer a cheesier, thicker sauce. You can also try different types of cheese for a unique flavor.
• Optional Heat: If you enjoy a bit of spice, feel free to add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

How to Serve

Serve this Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal. You can also pair it with a crisp white wine or your favorite drink for the perfect dining experience. For extra richness, top with a little more grated Parmesan cheese right before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may want to add a small splash of milk or water to help restore the sauce’s creamy texture.

Freezing

While this dish can be frozen, the texture of the cheese and sauce may change slightly after thawing. To freeze, store in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a bit of milk or broth to rehydrate the sauce. Alternatively, you can microwave it, stirring halfway through for even reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in this recipe.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can swap the bowtie pasta with any other pasta shape such as penne, rotini, or even spaghetti.

3. Can I make this dish spicier?

If you enjoy spicy food, add more red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or even some hot sauce to the sauce.

4. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

You can prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat and toss with the pasta and beef when ready to serve.

5. Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?

To make it dairy-free, you could use a plant-based butter and dairy-free cheese options for the sauce.

6. How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to store them in an airtight container.

7. Can I freeze the dish?

Yes, you can freeze the dish for up to 2-3 months. However, the texture of the cheese sauce may change slightly after freezing.

8. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Certainly! Try adding spinach, bell peppers, or peas to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.

9. Can I use a non-dairy milk?

Yes, you can use non-dairy milk such as almond milk or oat milk, but the sauce may be slightly less creamy.

10. Can I use pre-cooked beef?

If you’re in a rush, pre-cooked ground beef can be used. Just skip the step where you cook the beef from scratch and add it to the skillet with the seasonings.

Conclusion

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is the epitome of comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and full of savory flavors that everyone will love. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s the perfect dish to serve when you want something satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special treat for your family, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

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