Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter – A Flavorful

If you’re looking for a quick, hearty, and cheesy pasta dish, this Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is a must-try! This dish combines tender ground beef, perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, and a rich garlic butter sauce with melted cheese for the ultimate comfort meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or satisfying a pasta craving. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe delivers big flavors without spending hours in the kitchen!

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Ingredients for Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

the Pasta & Beef:

• 12 oz (340g) bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• ½ cup beef broth
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnishing (Optional):

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra grated Parmesan

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Strainer for draining pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later.

2. Brown the Beef

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned (5-7 minutes).
2. Drain any excess grease and season with salt, pepper, onion powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in beef broth and let simmer for 2 minutes to blend flavors.

4. Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked pasta to the skillet with the beef.
2. Stir in mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and creamy.
3. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

5. Serve & Garnish

• Sprinkle with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
• Enjoy warm!

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Expert Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

• Use freshly grated cheese – It melts better and gives a creamier texture.
• Don’t overcook the pasta – Keep it al dente so it holds its shape in the sauce.
• Add extra garlic if you love bold flavors!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the pasta water – It helps make the sauce silky and well-coated.
• Not draining beef properly – Excess grease can make the dish too oily.
• Overcooking the garlic – Garlic burns quickly; sauté it just until fragrant.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

• Serve with garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Pair with a side salad for freshness.
• Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra depth of flavor.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

Storage:

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

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Warm in a pan over low heat with a splash of broth or milk.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Variations and Substitutions

• Make it spicy – Add chili flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Swap the beef – Try ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Use different cheeses – Gouda or Monterey Jack work great.

What to Serve with Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

• Steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus
• Crusty bread or garlic knots
• Tomato cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes! Penne, rotini, or rigatoni work well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Cook everything, then store and reheat when ready to serve.

How do I make it creamier?

Add ½ cup of heavy cream when mixing in the cheese.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is a rich, comforting, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and family-approved! Give it a try and let us know how it turned out. Don’t forget to subscribe for more easy pasta recipes!

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Calories Per Serving

Approximate Calories: 520 kcal per serving (based on 6 servings).

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Serves: 6

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