Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter Recipe

There's nothing better than a warm, cheesy pasta dish that comes together effortlessly on a busy night. This Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is rich, comforting, and packed with flavor, making it an instant favorite for both kids and adults alike.

I first made this recipe on a whim, trying to use up leftover ground beef and pasta in my pantry. A little garlic butter, some gooey cheese, and a pinch of seasoning later, I had a meal that my family couldn't stop raving about. Now, it’s a staple in our weekly dinner rotation!

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

Get ready to fall in love with this creamy, savory dish! Whether you're feeding a crowd or just looking for an easy, comforting dinner, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

First off, it’s incredibly quick and easy. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can have dinner on the table in 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights when time is short.

It’s also budget-friendly. Using ground beef and pantry staples means you get a hearty, filling meal without spending a fortune. You likely have most of the ingredients already!

Another reason to love this dish? It’s ultra-creamy and packed with flavor. The garlic butter adds a rich depth, while the melty cheese creates that perfect indulgent bite. Plus, the bowtie pasta holds onto the sauce beautifully.

Lastly, this recipe is highly versatile. You can swap the beef for chicken or turkey, mix in extra veggies, or even add a little heat with some red pepper flakes. There’s plenty of room to make it your own.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter lies in its simple yet well-balanced ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in making this dish absolutely delicious.

Bowtie pasta (Farfalle) is the perfect choice for this dish. Its unique shape helps catch all that creamy, cheesy sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. While you can substitute with penne or rotini, bowtie pasta works best for the ideal texture.

Ground beef adds heartiness and depth to the dish. I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and tenderness. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well too, though it may alter the richness slightly.

Garlic butter is where the real magic happens. A mix of butter and freshly minced garlic infuses the dish with a deep, savory aroma that pairs perfectly with the beef and cheese. If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder can be a quick alternative.

Cheese is key to making this dish extra creamy and indulgent. I love using a combination of shredded mozzarella and sharp cheddar for the perfect balance of meltiness and tang. For an extra kick, try adding a little Parmesan to enhance the depth of flavor.

Heavy cream helps create the luxurious, silky sauce that coats every bite of pasta. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, half-and-half can work, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich and creamy.

For equipment, you’ll need a large skillet for browning the beef and making the sauce, plus a big pot for boiling the pasta. A colander for draining and a wooden spoon for stirring everything together will also come in handy.

How To Make This Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

Cooking this delicious pasta dish is a breeze. Follow these simple steps, and you'll have a rich, cheesy dinner ready in no time.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining—this will help create a silky sauce later.

While the pasta is cooking, brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until fully browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from getting too oily.

Next, add the garlic butter to the skillet with the beef. Stir in minced garlic and butter, letting the flavors meld together for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This step infuses the beef with incredible depth of flavor.

Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring well. Add the cheeses, one handful at a time, allowing each addition to melt before adding the next. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy, then mix in the reserved pasta water to help coat the pasta evenly.

Finally, toss in the cooked bowtie pasta, making sure each piece is coated in the creamy, cheesy sauce. Let it simmer for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to come together. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan for an extra touch of flavor.

Storage Options

This dish stores well, making it great for meal prep or leftovers! If you have extras, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

For refrigeration, store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creaminess and prevent the sauce from drying out.

To freeze, place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop or microwave.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, making it easy to customize based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences.

If you’re looking for a lighter version, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken, and use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. It’ll still be creamy and delicious, just with fewer calories.

Want to add more veggies? Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for added texture and nutrients. They blend beautifully with the garlic butter sauce.

For a spicy kick, stir in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. A bit of heat adds a fun twist to the creamy, cheesy dish.

To make it extra indulgent, add crispy bacon or pancetta for a smoky depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese sauce.

No bowtie pasta? Use penne, rotini, or even macaroni. Any short pasta shape that holds sauce well will work just fine.

However you choose to make it, this Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is guaranteed to be a hit. Enjoy experimenting and making it your own!

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