Get ready to fall in love with a dish that brings comfort and excitement to your dinner table: the Cheesy Beef & Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter Recipe. This delightful combination of tender bowtie pasta, juicy ground beef, and an irresistible garlic butter sauce loaded with three types of cheese will quickly become one of your go-to recipes. It’s creamy, flavorful, and satisfying with every bite — perfect for those nights when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this, it’s a taste that sticks with you.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Cheesy Beef & Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a pivotal role in balancing flavors, texture, and color to create a comforting dish that’s rich and vibrant.
- 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle): The charming shape captures sauce beautifully, making every forkful deliciously coated.
- 1 lb ground beef: Adds hearty texture and savory depth, creating a protein-packed base.
- 1 small onion, diced: Brings sweetness and a subtle crunch to brighten the dish.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that unmistakable garlicky aroma and bold flavor kick.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances every ingredient’s flavor for perfect seasoning.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and subtle heat to complement the beef.
- ½ tsp paprika: Lends a smoky, slightly sweet note that deepens the sauce’s complexity.
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that ties all the flavors with an herbaceous flair.
- 2 tbsp butter: Used initially to sauté aromatics, infusing richness right from the start.
- 1 cup beef broth: Provides a savory liquid base that adds moisture and umami.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and silky smooth.
- 2 tbsp butter: Added again to enrich the sauce and lend a glossy finish.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, creating that signature cheesy goodness.
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds gooey stretchiness and smooth texture.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkles a salty, nutty accent that elevates the overall taste.
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): A fresh pop of color and brightness on top just before serving.
How to Make Cheesy Beef & Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt seasons the pasta as it cooks, enhancing flavor right from the start. Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente — tender but still with a slight bite to provide perfect texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Mixture
While the pasta cooks, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing them for about 2 minutes until fragrant. This step is where the base flavors begin to build, with aromatic garlic and sweet onions setting the stage for the beef.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef along with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook the meat for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until fully browned and flavorful. This spice blend seasons the beef well and creates a warm, inviting taste that’s essential to our Cheesy Beef & Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter Recipe. If there is excess grease, drain it off to prevent the dish from becoming too oily.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the beef broth, heavy cream, and an additional 2 tablespoons of butter. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes. This simmering step thickens the sauce slightly, turning it luscious and ready to blend with cheese and pasta.
Step 5: Add the Cheeses
Now for the best part — sprinkle in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. This triple-cheese layer adds depth, richness, and that irresistible gooey factor that makes this dish unforgettable.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss well to ensure every piece is coated with the cheesy garlic butter sauce. Let it cook for another 1 to 2 minutes to soak up the flavors—this finishing touch brings everything together perfectly.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle chopped parsley on top to add a fresh counterpoint and a little extra Parmesan if you like. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the full comforting experience of your homemade Cheesy Beef & Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter Recipe.
How to Serve Cheesy Beef & Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh parsley as a garnish not only gives a lovely burst of green but also imparts a subtle herbal freshness that cuts through the richness of the cheese and butter. For an extra cheesy touch, a little extra grated Parmesan on top is always a winner.
Side Dishes
This dish stands well on its own but pairs beautifully with crisp, refreshing sides like a simple garden salad with lemon vinaigrette or steamed green beans. The lightness of fresh veggies balances the hearty and creamy qualities of the pasta perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Cheesy Beef & Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter Recipe in individual ramekins and sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy texture contrast. Alternatively, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a little heat and visual interest if you like it spicy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the pasta has cooled before sealing to keep the textures fresh and flavorful for the next meal.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish for longer storage. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and prevent it from sticking. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta works wonderfully because of its shape, feel free to swap in penne, rotini, or rigatoni—pasta with ridges or hollows tends to hold the sauce nicely.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty and flavorful vegetarian version that still embraces the cheesy garlic butter goodness.
Can I use low-fat dairy instead of heavy cream?
Using lower-fat options can work, but the sauce won’t be as rich or creamy. To maintain some creaminess, you might consider mixing milk with a small amount of flour or cornstarch to thicken it.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe has a mild warmth from paprika and black pepper. If you prefer more heat, adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce works great without overpowering the other flavors.
What’s the best way to prevent the pasta from sticking after cooking?
Drain the pasta well and toss it immediately in a little olive oil or incorporate it quickly into the sauce to keep it from clumping together. Avoid rinsing the pasta, as the starch on its surface helps the sauce stick beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about a dish that wraps you in cozy, cheesy goodness, and the Cheesy Beef & Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter Recipe does exactly that. It’s straightforward to make, loaded with flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner gatherings. I hope you enjoy preparing and savoring this recipe as much as I do—happy cooking and happy eating!
Print
Cheesy Beef & Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Beef & Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is a rich and comforting dish featuring al dente bowtie pasta combined with savory ground beef and a creamy, cheesy garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers layers of flavor from sautéed onions and garlic, seasoned ground beef, and a luscious blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
Dairy and Broth
- 2 tbsp butter (for cooking)
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp butter (for sauce)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish (optional)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Boil 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.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 2 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef along with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the beef is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
- Make Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in beef broth, heavy cream, and 2 tablespoons of butter. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Add Cheese: Add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir well until the cheeses melt into a creamy sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta thoroughly in the cheesy garlic butter sauce. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese on top. Serve hot and enjoy this hearty, cheesy, and garlicky pasta dish.
Notes
- To reduce fat content, you can substitute ground beef with lean ground turkey or chicken.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta.
- Ensure you do not overcook the pasta; it should be al dente to maintain a nice texture when combined with the sauce.
- The fresh parsley garnish is optional but adds a bright freshness and color to the dish.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more salt or pepper as preferred.
