Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

A delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction, Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This recipe features tender bowtie pasta combined with seasoned ground beef and a rich garlic butter sauce, topped off with gooey melted cheese. It’s ideal for any occasion, whether a busy weeknight or a casual weekend get-together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic butter, Italian seasoning, and melted cheese creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• One-Pot Wonder: Most of the cooking takes place in one skillet, minimizing cleanup and maximizing convenience.
• Customizable: Feel free to add vegetables or swap cheeses based on your preferences for a unique twist every time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy goodness, making it a great way to please picky eaters.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the pasta evenly without sticking.
• Skillet: Provides enough space to cook the beef and sauce together for optimal flavor blending.
• Whisk: Helps create a smooth sauce by preventing lumps when adding milk to the roux.

Ingredients

A savory and satisfying dish that combines tender bowtie pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a rich garlic butter sauce. Finished with gooey melted cheese, this dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.

For the Pasta

• 12 oz (340g) bowtie pasta (farfalle)

For the Beef Mixture

• 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

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 additional cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (240ml) milk (whole or 2%)

For Topping

• 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Remove the beef mixture from the skillet 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.

Step 5: Create Roux

Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.

Step 6: Thicken Sauce

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook until it begins to thicken, about 3 minutes.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Reduce heat to low; stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Add cooked pasta and beef mixture to skillet; toss everything evenly in sauce. If too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually.

Step 8: Serve

Transfer cheesy beef and bowtie pasta to serving bowls. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy this comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

How to Serve Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

Serving Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter can elevate your meal experience. This dish is versatile and can be paired with various sides or toppings to suit different tastes.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a vibrant color and a hint of freshness.
• Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil can enhance the Italian flavors of the dish.

Add Extra Cheese

• Parmesan: Grate extra Parmesan on top right before serving for an added cheesy flavor.
• Cheddar: For a sharper taste, sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta.

Pair with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the richness of the pasta.
• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with a vinaigrette can balance the creamy sauce.

Serve with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic butter sauce.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls provide a nice contrast to the cheesy pasta.

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How to Perfect Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

To make your Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter truly exceptional, consider these tips for perfection.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Always opt for fresh ground beef and high-quality cheese for better flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook the bowtie pasta just until al dente for the best texture.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go, adjusting salt and pepper to fit your palate.
• Stir Gently: When combining everything, stir gently to avoid breaking the pasta shapes.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add other spices like paprika or oregano for additional depth of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

Pairing side dishes with your Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter can enhance your meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, perfect for dipping into sauce.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients to balance out the meal.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender makes a great side.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta dish.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction complement the flavors well.
6. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf adds an aromatic touch and absorbs any extra sauce beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your experience.

• Using too much water: Adding excess water while cooking pasta can make it soggy. Always use just enough salted water to cover the pasta.
• Overcooking the beef: When browning ground beef, overcooking can lead to a dry texture. Cook just until browned and no longer pink.
• Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to season the beef and sauce can result in bland flavors. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly.
• Skipping the pasta water: Not reserving pasta cooking water means missing out on an easy way to adjust sauce consistency. Always set aside some before draining.
• Rushing the garlic butter sauce: Cooking the garlic too quickly can lead to bitterness. Sauté it gently until fragrant for the best flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool before sealing the container.

Freezing Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

• Freeze in a suitable freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Make sure to label with date for easy tracking.

Reheating Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water while reheating over low heat, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While bowtie pasta works well, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer.

What is the best cheese for this recipe?

Mozzarella and Parmesan provide great flavor and texture, but feel free to experiment with cheeses like cheddar or gouda.

How can I customize my Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter?

You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. You could also use turkey or chicken instead of beef.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well, making it perfect for meal prepping lunches or dinners throughout the week.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or include diced jalapeños in your beef mixture for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is not only delicious but also versatile! You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients. It’s a comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights. Give it a try, and enjoy a hearty meal that everyone will love!