Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is the ultimate comfort food for any pasta lover. This dish combines tender bowtie pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich garlic butter sauce that’s made even more indulgent with the addition of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or looking to impress at your next family meal, this cheesy pasta dish will be a hit. The garlic butter sauce is flavorful and creamy, providing the perfect base for the juicy beef and pasta. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delicious Garlic Butter Sauce: The garlic butter sauce in this dish is incredibly rich and flavorful, making every bite indulgent.
Simple Ingredients: You don’t need anything fancy to make this dish. Most ingredients are pantry staples, so it’s easy to prepare at home.
One-Pot Wonder: With minimal cooking steps and easy cleanup, this recipe is a lifesaver for busy nights.
Cheese Lovers Delight: A generous amount of mozzarella and Parmesan creates a cheesy, gooey, and comforting meal.
Kid-Friendly: The flavors in this recipe are mild, making it perfect for kids, yet flavorful enough for adults to enjoy.

Ingredients

Bowtie pasta
Ground beef
Olive oil
Small onion, finely chopped
Garlic, minced
Italian seasoning
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper
Unsalted butter
All-purpose flour
Milk
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Variations

Add Vegetables: You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for more texture and nutrition.
Use Different Pasta: Swap bowtie pasta for penne, rotini, or farfalle for a fun twist.
Spicy Kick: If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
Ground Turkey or Chicken: Replace the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the dish.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions in salted water. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat and set the beef mixture aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and garlic. Cook until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until smooth.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3 minutes until thickened. Stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and beef mixture into the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the pasta and beef in the cheesy garlic sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to thin it out.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the cheesy beef and bowtie pasta hot, garnished with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy once combined with the sauce.
Reserve Pasta Water: Keep a cup of pasta water before draining the pasta—it’s great for thinning the sauce later.
Fresh Garlic: Using fresh garlic enhances the flavor of the garlic butter sauce, giving it a more robust taste.
Adjust the Cheese: Feel free to adjust the amount of cheese to your preference for a cheesier dish.

How to Serve

This dish is hearty enough to serve on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad. For extra flavor, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top or add a drizzle of olive oil.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

In the Fridge: Store leftover cheesy beef and bowtie pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore its creamy texture.

Freezing

Freezing: You can freeze this pasta dish by placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to 3 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before freezing.

Reheating

Reheat in the Oven: To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creamy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well in this recipe as a leaner alternative to ground beef.

2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free pasta and cornstarch instead of flour to make this dish gluten-free.

3. Can I make this in advance?

Yes, you can make the dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat when ready to serve.

4. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli will give the dish more flavor and nutrients.

5. How can I make the sauce creamier?

For a creamier sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream instead of milk or use a bit more butter.

6. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Try substituting mozzarella with provolone or gouda for a different flavor profile.

7. Can I use dairy-free cheese?

Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese options if you’re following a dairy-free diet.

8. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any type of short pasta like penne or rotini works great in this recipe.

9. How do I store leftovers?

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

10. How can I make this spicier?

You can add more red pepper flakes, or even some hot sauce, to give the dish a spicy kick.

Conclusion

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is an easy-to-make and deliciously comforting meal that will quickly become a family favorite. With a rich and flavorful garlic butter sauce, hearty ground beef, and a cheesy finish, this dish offers everything you love about pasta in one skillet. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or planning a special dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to please. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a comforting meal with minimal fuss!