Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

A Comforting, Flavorful Pasta Dish

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is a rich and satisfying meal that brings together tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a luscious, cheesy garlic butter sauce. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or when you’re craving a hearty comfort meal. The combination of garlic-infused butter, melted cheese, and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta creates an irresistible flavor profile that both kids and adults will love.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
• Rich and Cheesy: The creamy, cheesy sauce coats every bite beautifully.
• Garlic Butter Goodness: The garlic butter base adds an aromatic depth of flavor.
• Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleasing dish that appeals to all ages.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable with different meats, cheeses, or vegetables.

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Ingredients

• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• 1 lb ground beef
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup beef broth
• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat and set aside.

3. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes.

4. Build the Cheesy Sauce

Pour in beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes. Gradually add the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.

5. Combine Everything

Add the cooked ground beef back to the skillet, followed by the drained pasta. Stir well to coat everything in the cheesy garlic butter sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

6. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

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Variations and Substitutions

• Swap the Protein: Try ground turkey, Italian sausage, or shredded rotisserie chicken instead of beef.
• Cheese Options: Experiment with mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a different flavor.
• Make it Spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Add Vegetables: Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers make great additions.
• Use a Different Pasta: Penne, rotini, or shells work well in place of bowtie pasta.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

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Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to maintain creaminess. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?

Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded, which contains anti-caking agents that can cause graininess. Also, avoid high heat when melting the cheese.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the pasta and beef ahead, then reheat with the sauce when ready to serve.

What’s the best way to reheat without drying it out?

Add a splash of milk or broth while reheating on low heat to keep the sauce creamy.

Can I use pre-cooked pasta?

Yes, but slightly undercook it to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.

What other seasonings can I use?

Try paprika, onion powder, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce may be slightly thinner. Add more cheese to thicken if needed.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and check that all other ingredients (such as broth and seasonings) are gluten-free.

Can I add breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping?

Yes! Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top for extra texture.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or shells work just as well in this recipe.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta, lean ground turkey, and a lighter cheese sauce made with milk instead of cream.

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Conclusion

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is the perfect balance of comfort and indulgence. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this dish will leave everyone satisfied. Try different variations to suit your taste, and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!

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