Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cheesy beef and bowtie pasta dish is a perfect blend of hearty, savory flavors with a rich garlic butter sauce. The tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and melty cheese come together for a comforting meal that is both easy to make and satisfying for the whole family. This recipe is great for weeknights because it requires simple ingredients and minimal prep time.

Ingredients

• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• 1 lb ground beef
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
3. Drain excess grease and season the beef with salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine.
4. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Reduce heat to low and stir in the cooked pasta.
2. Add the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
3. If needed, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
• Different Protein: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or sausage.
• Vegetable Boost: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Creamy Tomato Base: Add 1/2 cup of marinara sauce to the garlic butter for a tangy twist.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of beef broth or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

Cook the pasta until al dente and avoid overcooking it when mixing with the sauce.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes! Penne, rotini, or shells work well as substitutes.

What cheese works best for this dish?

Mozzarella and Parmesan create a perfect balance, but you can also use cheddar, gouda, or provolone.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the sauce and pasta separately, then combine and reheat when ready to serve.

How can I make it lighter?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and lean ground beef or ground turkey.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the beef for plant-based crumbles or extra vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.

What side dishes go well with this?

A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement the dish well.

Can I add more garlic?

Absolutely! Adjust the garlic to your taste preference.

How can I make it extra cheesy?

Increase the mozzarella and Parmesan, or add a sprinkle of cheddar for a stronger cheese flavor.

Conclusion

This cheesy beef and bowtie pasta in garlic butter is a fantastic meal for busy nights, packed with flavor and easy to customize. Whether you keep it classic or add your own twist, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

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