Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish offers a rich, flavorful experience with the savory combination of ground beef, creamy garlic butter sauce, and cheesy goodness. The bowtie pasta, with its fun shape, holds the sauce perfectly, making each bite satisfying. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight meal or prepping for a special occasion, this recipe is versatile, quick, and simple to make. Plus, you can easily add vegetables or tweak the seasonings to suit your preferences!

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340g) bowtie pasta

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to salt the water for enhanced flavor. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Brown the Beef: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned. Drain any excess fat.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, creating a rich garlic butter sauce.

4. Combine Pasta and Beef: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the garlic butter sauce. Stir in the browned ground beef, mixing everything together.

5. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the mixture and stir until it melts, creating a creamy texture.

6. Season and Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings and takes about 35 minutes to prepare from start to finish—perfect for a quick, hearty meal.

Variations

• Vegetable Add-ins: Add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a healthier, more balanced dish.

• Spicy Version: Spice it up by adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce.

• Different Cheeses: Try using Parmesan, mozzarella, or sharp cheddar for a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

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

• Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to 2-3 months. Ensure it's in a freezer-safe container to avoid freezer burn.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or extra butter to restore the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can swap bowtie pasta for penne, fusilli, or rigatoni. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions for the pasta you choose.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great leaner alternatives. Season well to bring out the flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef and pasta in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine with the garlic butter and cheese when you're ready to serve.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the garlic butter sauce for an extra kick of heat.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can use plant-based ground meat or a veggie mix to replace the ground beef. Make sure to season it well to maintain the flavor.

What other cheeses can I use?

Feel free to experiment with cheeses like Parmesan, mozzarella, or even a blend of your favorites for a unique flavor profile.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.

Can I add extra vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini would all be great additions to this recipe.

How long does this recipe take to cook?

The recipe takes about 35 minutes to prepare and cook, making it ideal for a quick weeknight meal.

Can I use pre-minced garlic for convenience?

While fresh garlic offers the best flavor, pre-minced garlic can be used as a time-saving alternative.

Conclusion

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is a satisfying, flavorful dish that’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table. With its rich garlic butter sauce, savory beef, and melty cheese, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Whether for a busy weeknight or a special dinner, this recipe is easy to make and absolutely delicious. Try it out, and it might just become your new favorite meal!

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Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is the perfect cozy dinner that combines savory ground beef, tender bowtie pasta, and a creamy garlic butter sauce, all topped with melty cheese. A quick and easy weeknight meal that’s indulgent and satisfying, making it a family favorite. Customize it with vegetables, spice it up, or try different cheeses for unique variations.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American, Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

12 oz (340g) bowtie pasta

1 lb (450g) ground beef

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons butter

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)

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Instructions

• Cook the Pasta: Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions, salting the water for flavor. Drain and set aside.

• Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat.

• Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

• Combine Pasta and Beef: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the garlic butter sauce. Add the browned ground beef and mix well.

• Add the Cheese: Stir in shredded cheese and cook until melted and creamy.

• Season and Serve: Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

• Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

• For a spicy version, add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce.

• Different cheeses like Parmesan or sharp cheddar work well for variation.

• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2-3 months.