Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter Recipe

There's something magical about the combination of tender pasta, savory beef, and rich, melty cheese coated in a luscious garlic butter sauce. The aroma alone is enough to bring everyone rushing to the dinner table.

this Recipe

I first made this recipe on a hectic weeknight when I needed something fast, comforting, and guaranteed to please the whole family. Little did I know it would become a staple in our household, requested time and time again.

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to pasta dish. This Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is everything you want in a comfort meal.

First, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when time is short but cravings are high.

Not to mention, it’s budget-friendly. Ground beef and pantry staples keep costs low while delivering rich, satisfying flavors.

And let’s not forget the creamy, cheesy goodness. Melted cheese binds everything together in a velvety texture, making every bite pure bliss.

Finally, this recipe is highly versatile. You can swap proteins, use different pasta shapes, or adjust seasonings to suit your taste.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of taste and texture.

Bowtie pasta is the ideal choice for this dish. Its shape helps hold onto the cheesy, buttery sauce, ensuring you get a flavorful bite every time. If you don’t have bowtie pasta on hand, penne or rotini also work well.

For the beef, I recommend using lean ground beef. It provides a rich, meaty flavor without making the dish overly greasy. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter option.

The garlic butter sauce is the heart of this recipe. Freshly minced garlic sautéed in butter creates an irresistible aroma and deep flavor. Be sure to use fresh garlic instead of pre-minced for the best results.

To bring everything together, cheddar cheese is my go-to choice. It melts beautifully and complements the beef and garlic butter sauce perfectly. For extra cheesiness, you can mix in mozzarella or Parmesan.

A large skillet and a pot for boiling pasta are all you need to make this dish come together quickly and easily.

How To Make This Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

Bringing this dish to life is simpler than you think! Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready in no time.

Start by cooking the bowtie pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water for later.

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease and transfer the beef to a plate.

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Return the cooked beef to the skillet and toss it in the garlic butter. Stir in the cooked pasta and mix well to coat everything evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Finally, sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and gooey. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra flavor.

This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver on busy nights. The end result? A perfectly cheesy, garlicky, and hearty meal that everyone will love.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which isn’t always likely with this dish!), storing them properly ensures you can enjoy them later.

For short-term storage, place the pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld together beautifully, making it even more delicious the next day.

For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To reheat, warm it on the stove over medium-low heat with a splash of milk or broth to help bring back the creamy consistency. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is highly customizable! Here are some fun variations to try:

Want to switch up the protein? Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.

Looking for a veggie boost? Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms when cooking the beef to add extra nutrients and color.

Prefer a spicier kick? Add red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or diced jalapeños for some heat.

Need a gluten-free option? Simply use gluten-free pasta, and make sure your cheese and butter are certified gluten-free.

However you tweak it, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Have fun experimenting and making it your own!

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