Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

This cheesy beef and bowtie pasta dish combines tender pasta with savory ground beef, rich garlic butter sauce, and melted cheese to create a comfort food classic that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of flavors is indulgent, satisfying, and easy to make in under an hour, making it a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward and requires just a few simple steps, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when time is limited.
• One-Pot Wonder: With minimal dishes to wash, you can enjoy a hearty meal without extra cleanup.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The cheesy, garlicky flavors combined with tender beef and pasta are sure to win over both kids and adults.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable with various vegetables, seasonings, or cheeses to suit your preferences.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Rich and creamy, this dish is the ultimate comfort food for cold evenings or any time you crave something indulgent.

Ingredients

• Ground beef
• Bowtie pasta
• Garlic cloves
• Unsalted butter
• Parmesan cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Heavy cream
• Chicken or beef broth
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving a small cup of the pasta water.
2. Cook the beef:
   In a large skillet or sauté pan, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Once cooked through, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the garlic butter sauce:
   In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Create the creamy base:
   Stir in the chicken or beef broth and heavy cream, whisking until combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it thicken slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Incorporate the cheese:
   Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, whisking until fully melted and smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
6. Combine the ingredients:
   Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and mix well. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
7. Serve and garnish:
   Transfer the cheesy beef and bowtie pasta to a serving dish or individual plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Variations

• Add vegetables: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or steamed broccoli for added texture and nutrition.
• Switch the protein: Replace ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Use different pasta: While bowtie pasta works beautifully in this dish, you can substitute it with penne, rotini, or shells.
• Spicy kick: For heat lovers, stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or additional red pepper flakes.
• Cheese alternatives: Swap mozzarella with cheddar, gouda, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a unique twist.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce as needed. You can also microwave individual portions in 30-second increments, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

FAQs

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth is gluten-free for a completely gluten-free version of this dish.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and beef in advance. Store them separately from the cooked pasta, and combine everything when reheating.

What’s the best cheese for this recipe?

Mozzarella and Parmesan work best for their meltability and flavor, but you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or fontina.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

While heavy cream provides a richer texture, you can substitute it with whole milk or half-and-half. The sauce may be slightly thinner, but still delicious.

How do I prevent the sauce from clumping?

Make sure to stir the cheese in gradually and over low heat. If the sauce thickens too much, use reserved pasta water to smooth it out.

Can I freeze leftovers?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What herbs can I add for extra flavor?

Fresh basil, thyme, or oregano can complement the garlic butter sauce beautifully.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The cheesy and mild flavors make it a hit with kids. You can omit the red pepper flakes to keep it extra kid-friendly.

How can I make it healthier?

Use lean ground beef or turkey, reduce the amount of butter, and add vegetables like spinach or zucchini to make the dish more balanced.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, omit the ground beef and use a plant-based protein or extra vegetables. Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for the sauce.

Conclusion

Cheesy beef and bowtie pasta in garlic butter is a delightful combination of savory, creamy, and comforting flavors. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re in the mood for something indulgent yet simple. With endless variations and kid-approved flavors, it’s a dish you’ll want to make on repeat. Give it a try and bring a little extra joy to your dinner table!

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