Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter Recipe

There's nothing quite like a hearty bowl of Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter to satisfy your cravings after a long day. The tender pasta, rich beef, and velvety cheese come together in a buttery garlic sauce that makes every bite irresistible.

this Recipe

I first stumbled upon this dish when looking for a quick and easy dinner to please my family. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, it quickly became one of our go-to comfort meals. Now, it's a staple in our kitchen, and I know you'll love it too.

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite weeknight meal. This Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is loaded with flavor and couldn't be easier to make.

First, it’s quick and simple. You can have this dish on the table in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings when you need something satisfying fast.

It’s also budget-friendly. With just a few affordable ingredients, you can make a filling meal that the whole family will love—no need for expensive takeout.

The garlicky butter sauce takes it over the top. The combination of rich butter, fragrant garlic, and melty cheese creates an indulgent, comforting dish that’s packed with flavor.

Best of all, it’s kid-approved. Even picky eaters can’t resist the creamy, cheesy goodness of this pasta, making it a family favorite.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this pasta so delicious.

Bowtie pasta (Farfalle) is perfect for this dish because its shape holds onto the rich sauce, ensuring every bite is full of flavor. You can substitute penne or rotini if needed, but bowtie pasta works best.

Ground beef adds a hearty, savory depth to the dish. I recommend using 80/20 ground beef, as it has enough fat for flavor but doesn’t become greasy. If you prefer leaner meat, you can use 90/10 and add a little butter for richness.

Garlic butter sauce is what makes this dish shine. Fresh garlic sautéed in butter creates an aromatic, mouthwatering base that elevates the flavors of the beef and cheese.

Shredded cheese, such as cheddar or a blend of mozzarella and parmesan, gives this dish its creamy, gooey texture. Using freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged options.

If you have it, a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or fresh parsley can add a pop of herby freshness to balance the richness.

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

Making this pasta dish is simple and straightforward, perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks alike.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water to help with the sauce later if needed.

Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess grease and transfer the beef to a plate.

In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic, cooking until fragrant—about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Return the cooked beef to the skillet, then add the drained pasta. Stir in the shredded cheese, allowing it to melt into the mixture. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to create a smooth consistency.

Let everything simmer for a couple of minutes, stirring gently to ensure the flavors meld together. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or fresh parsley if desired.

Storage Options

This dish is great for meal prep and leftovers! Here’s how to store it properly:

For refrigeration, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day!

To freeze, allow the pasta to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen up the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this dish is how customizable it is. Here are some fun variations to try:

Want a spicy kick? Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce for extra heat.

For a healthier twist, swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You’ll get the same hearty texture with a lighter feel.

Make it extra creamy by adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese to the sauce.

Need a low-carb option? Substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a keto-friendly version.

For a veggie boost, toss in some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to add color and nutrients.

This Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and always satisfying. Don’t be afraid to put your own twist on it and enjoy!

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