Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter

This Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter recipe is the ultimate comfort food that brings together tender bowtie pasta, savory ground beef, and a creamy garlic butter sauce. Ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish is not only quick and easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor that everyone will love.

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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
• For the Sauce
• For Garnish
• How to Make Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter
• Step 1: Cook the Pasta
• Step 2: Brown the Beef
• Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
• Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
• Step 5: Melt the Cheese
• Step 6: Combine with Pasta
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter
• Family Style
• Individual Plates
• With a Side Salad
• On a Buffet
• As Leftovers
• With Garlic Bread
• 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
• What is Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter?
• How long does it take to prepare Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter?
• Can I customize my Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter?
• Can I use different types of cheese?
• Is this recipe gluten-free?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This meal can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for hectic evenings.
• Flavorful Combination: The rich flavors of beef and cheese meld beautifully with the creamy garlic butter sauce.
• Versatile Dish: You can easily modify this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of meat.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this creamy pasta dish, ensuring clean plates at dinner time.
• Comforting Meal: The combination of cheese and pasta makes it a warm hug on a plate, perfect for any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather these essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Colander for draining pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A must-have for browning meat and preparing sauces evenly.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures even cooking of the bowtie pasta.
• Colander for draining pasta: Helps remove excess water quickly without losing any pasta.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 12 oz bowtie pasta

For the Beef

• 1 lb ground beef

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ cup reserved pasta water

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the bowtie pasta according to package directions. Drain the pasta while reserving ½ cup of the cooking water. Set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Make sure to drain any excess fat after browning.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked beef. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream into the skillet, stirring well to combine all ingredients. Season with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you like some heat.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese

Gradually mix in both shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until fully melted and smooth.

Step 6: Combine with Pasta

Toss in the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet. Stir well to coat everything evenly. If needed, add reserved pasta water gradually to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm. Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter!

How to Serve Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Family Style

• Serve the pasta in a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a communal and cozy atmosphere.

Individual Plates

• Plate the pasta in individual servings, garnishing each with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

With a Side Salad

• Pair with a crisp garden salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.

On a Buffet

• Include this dish as part of a buffet spread. Its vibrant colors and creamy texture will surely attract guests.

As Leftovers

• Reheat leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day. The flavors will deepen, making it even more delicious.

With Garlic Bread

• Serve alongside warm garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce. It’s an irresistible combination!

How to Perfect Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter

To ensure your Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and quality cheese make a significant difference in flavor. Choose aged cheddar for more depth.
• Adjust Creaminess: If you desire extra creaminess, add more cheese or a splash of milk while mixing the sauce.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure the bowtie pasta is cooked al dente before combining it with the sauce; it will absorb flavors without becoming mushy.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you season! Add salt, pepper, and spices gradually to achieve the perfect balance.
• Incorporate Veggies: Consider adding sautéed spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and texture.
• Save Pasta Water: Reserve that ½ cup of pasta water! It helps adjust sauce consistency without losing flavor.

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Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter

Pairing side dishes with your Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta can enhance your meal further. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice, perfect for sopping up any leftover garlic butter sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy Caesar dressing adds freshness and crunch.
3. Steamed Broccoli: A simple side that adds color and nutrients while complementing the rich pasta.
4. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears offer a delightful contrast to the cheesy dish.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing bite that balances the richness of the pasta.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms make an elegant appetizer that pairs well with cheesy flavors.
7. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob provides a fun side that kids love!
8. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, cheeses, and cured meats can serve as an enticing starter or side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter, it’s easy to make simple mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Always follow the package directions for cooking time. Al dente pasta holds up better in the dish.
• Not Draining the Beef Properly: Excess fat can make the dish greasy. Ensure you drain the beef well after browning.
• Skipping the Reserved Pasta Water: This water helps adjust sauce consistency. Always save some before draining.
• Adding Cheese Too Quickly: Gradually mixing in cheese ensures it melts evenly and creates a smooth sauce.
• Forgetting Seasoning Adjustments: Taste as you go! Adjust seasonings according to your preference for the best flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in a covered dish, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or cream to a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter?

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is a comforting dish combining tender bowtie pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich garlic butter sauce.

How long does it take to prepare Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter?

The total time is about 30 minutes, with 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking.

Can I customize my Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms or substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheeses such as mozzarella or gouda for different flavors and textures.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free bowtie pasta.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is not only delicious but also versatile. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Try it today and enjoy a meal that your whole family will love!

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