Introduction
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, cheesy pasta dish that combines rich flavors, tender beef, and aromatic garlic butter. This Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is the perfect dish for a cozy dinner with family or a meal that will impress guests with its depth of flavor. The combination of juicy beef, perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, creamy cheese, and the rich essence of garlic butter creates a dish that is not only filling but also absolutely irresistible.
In this recipe blog, we’ll explore everything from the best ingredients to use, step-by-step cooking instructions, and even variations to make this dish uniquely your own. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and packed with flavors that will make it a new favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy: The blend of melted cheese and butter creates an indulgent sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
- Savory and Flavorful: The combination of beef, garlic, and herbs adds a deep, satisfying taste.
- Easy to Make: This dish comes together in under 40 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Perfect for Families: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, buttery goodness.
- Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients or add extras like vegetables to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
To make this Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- Water for boiling
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 for the best flavor)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for added depth)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions (about 10-12 minutes) until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce consistency later.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Mixture
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, and sauté until the onions turn soft and translucent.
- Season the beef mixture with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce and beef broth. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the liquid slightly reduces.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In another large skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Pour in the heavy cream and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes before adding the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Stir until the cheese melts into a smooth, creamy sauce.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce.
- Stir in the beef mixture, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Let everything cook together for 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
- Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy, garlicky goodness!
Tips for the Best Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta
- Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances the depth of flavor compared to pre-minced garlic.
- Choose the Right Cheese: A combination of mozzarella and Parmesan adds creaminess and depth. Feel free to experiment with cheddar or gouda for different flavors.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking pasta until al dente ensures it holds its shape and texture in the sauce.
- Save Pasta Water: Adding a bit of pasta water to the sauce helps create a silkier consistency.
- Use Quality Beef: Opt for 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and juiciness.
Variations and Customizations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or more red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Veggie-Packed: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Protein Swap: Instead of beef, try ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a healthier version.
- Creamier Sauce: Stir in a bit of cream cheese for an even richer sauce.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creamy texture.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove for best results.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is the ultimate comfort food, packed with flavor and simple to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish will satisfy every craving for something rich, cheesy, and utterly delicious. Try it out, make it your own with variations, and let us know how it turns out!
What’s your favorite way to enjoy cheesy pasta? Let us know in the comments!
Happy cooking! 🍝🧄🧀