Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

A delectable dish, Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter brings together the comforting flavors of tender bowtie pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a rich garlic butter sauce. This recipe is perfect for various occasions, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. The gooey melted cheese adds a delightful touch that will satisfy any craving.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Pasta
• For the Beef Mixture
• For the Garlic Butter Sauce
• For the Cheese Topping
• How to Make Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
• Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta
• Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture
• Step 3: Add Onion and Garlic
• Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
• Step 5: Create Roux & Add Milk
• Step 6: Combine Everything
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
• Family Style
• Individual Bowls
• Garnished Plates
• Accompanying Bread
• Salad Pairing
• Wine Pairing
• How to Perfect Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
• Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
• Reheating Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use other types of pasta?
• What ground beef should I use?
• How spicy is this dish?
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
• What if I don’t have garlic butter?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic butter and cheeses creates a savory sauce that elevates every bite.
• Family-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness and pasta shape, even picky eaters will enjoy this meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
• One-Pot Wonder: Most of the cooking occurs in one skillet, simplifying clean-up.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta to perfection while ensuring it’s cooked al dente.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing the beef and creating the flavorful garlic butter sauce in one pan.
• Whisk: Helps to combine the ingredients smoothly when making the sauce, preventing lumps.

Ingredients

A savory and satisfying dish that combines tender bowtie pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a rich garlic butter sauce. Finished with gooey melted cheese, this dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.

For the Pasta

• 12 oz (340g) bowtie pasta (farfalle)

For the Beef Mixture

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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%)

For the Cheese Topping

• 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Remove the beef mixture from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Create Roux & Add Milk

Whisk in flour; cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer; cook until thickened for about 3 minutes.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Reduce heat to low; stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Add cooked pasta and beef mixture to skillet; toss everything evenly in sauce. If too thick, add reserved pasta water as needed.

Step 7: Serve

Transfer cheesy beef and bowtie pasta to serving bowls. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your comforting meal!

How to Serve Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

Serving Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter can elevate your dining experience, making it not just a meal but a delightful occasion. Here are some creative ways to present this comforting dish.

Family Style

• Serve the pasta in a large bowl for everyone to help themselves. This encourages sharing and creates a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Individual Bowls

• Dish out the pasta into individual bowls for a more formal presentation. Top each bowl with extra cheese and parsley for color.

Garnished Plates

• Place the pasta on plates and sprinkle with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan. A drizzle of olive oil can add a touch of elegance.

Accompanying Bread

• Serve with slices of crusty garlic bread or breadsticks on the side. This is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.

Salad Pairing

• Present the pasta alongside a fresh green salad for contrast. A simple vinaigrette will complement the richness of the cheesy beef dish.

Wine Pairing

• Offer a glass of red wine, such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, which pairs well with beef. This enhances the overall dining experience.

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How to Perfect Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

To ensure you create the best Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter, follow these helpful tips that will enhance flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, herbs, and quality cheeses will elevate the dish’s taste significantly.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Aim for al dente to maintain texture when mixing it with the sauce.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes based on your preference.
• Gradually add cheese: Incorporate cheese slowly while stirring to achieve a smooth, creamy sauce.
• Save some pasta water: If your sauce thickens too much, adding reserved pasta water helps reach your desired consistency.
• Let it rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

Pairing sides with your Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter can enhance both flavor profiles and presentation. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice that complements the garlic butter sauce perfectly. Toast it until golden brown for added crunch.

2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine topped with Caesar dressing adds freshness and balances out the richness of the pasta dish.

3. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli brings nutrition and vibrant color to your plate without overwhelming flavors.

4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   These provide a nutty flavor that pairs well with beef while adding texture to your meal.

5. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast to cheesy pasta.

6. Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots offers a tangy bite that brightens up your dinner table.

7. Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes can be an indulgent side, soaking up any remaining sauce from your main dish.

8. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad provides a sweet end note while cleansing the palate after rich flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can derail your dish.

• Overcooking the pasta: This can result in mushy bowtie pasta that doesn’t hold sauce well. Always check the package instructions for al dente cooking times.
• Not seasoning properly: Skipping salt and pepper can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to season each layer of your dish, including the beef and sauce.
• Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheese may not melt well, affecting the creaminess of your dish. Opt for good-quality mozzarella and Parmesan for the best results.
• Skipping the reserved pasta water: If your sauce is too thick, it can hinder the overall texture. Always reserve some pasta water to adjust the consistency as needed.
• Rushing the garlic butter sauce: Cooking garlic too quickly can lead to bitterness. Take your time sautéing it until fragrant, ensuring a rich flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter will keep for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

• Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best flavor.

Reheating Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until heated through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water and stir until warmed evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about making Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While bowtie pasta is great, you can substitute it with penne or fusilli based on your preference.

What ground beef should I use?

For this recipe, lean ground beef works best as it provides flavor without excess grease. You could also try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

How spicy is this dish?

The red pepper flakes are optional. Adjust or omit them based on your spice preference.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the components separately in advance and combine them just before serving for fresh flavors.

What if I don’t have garlic butter?

You can easily make garlic butter by combining melted butter with minced garlic. Alternatively, use regular butter with added minced garlic for similar results.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is a comforting and versatile meal perfect for any weeknight dinner. Its creamy texture combined with savory beef makes it a family favorite. Feel free to customize it with your preferred vegetables or spices!