Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

Short Description

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender ground beef, perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, and a rich, buttery garlic sauce. This meal is elevated with melted cheese, making it creamy and indulgent. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal, this dish is packed with flavor and easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Comforting – The combination of beef, pasta, and cheese makes for a warm and satisfying meal.
• Garlic Butter Flavor – The sauce is infused with garlic butter, adding depth and richness.
• Quick and Easy – This meal comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Kid-Friendly – The cheesy goodness appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• One-Pan Convenience – Easy cleanup with minimal dishes required.
• Customizable – Swap ingredients or add veggies to make it suit your preferences.

Ingredients

• Bowtie pasta
• Ground beef
• Garlic
• Butter
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Onion
• Beef broth
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess grease if necessary.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: Add diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Make the Sauce: Reduce heat to low and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine.
5. Season the Dish: Add Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to blend flavors.
6. Melt the Cheese: Gradually mix in Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together so the pasta is fully coated in the cheesy garlic butter sauce.
8. Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat and sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving.

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Mix in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added texture and nutrition.
• Use a Different Protein: Swap ground beef for Italian sausage, ground turkey, or shredded chicken.
• Spice It Up: Increase the red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños for extra heat.
• Make It Creamier: Stir in a bit of cream cheese for an even richer sauce.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta instead of regular bowtie pasta.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4-6

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

FAQs

How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?

To prevent clumping, add cheese gradually and stir continuously over low heat until fully melted.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Penne, rotini, or fettuccine work well as substitutes for bowtie pasta.

Is this dish spicy?

No, but you can add red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you prefer a spicier version.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving.

What cheese works best for this recipe?

A mix of mozzarella and Parmesan provides the best balance of meltiness and flavor.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that may affect the sauce’s texture, so freshly grated cheese is recommended.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Use lean ground beef, whole wheat pasta, and low-fat cheese to lighten up the recipe.

What side dishes pair well with this meal?

A simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make great accompaniments.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes! Half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but the sauce may be slightly less creamy.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Use dairy-free butter, plant-based cream, and vegan cheese alternatives.

Conclusion

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is a fantastic meal that is quick to prepare, rich in flavor, and loved by all. The combination of tender beef, creamy cheese, and garlicky butter sauce makes it an irresistible dish for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy a hearty, comforting meal with your loved ones!

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