This Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a rich garlic butter sauce with loads of melted cheese. I love how easy it is to make, and it always hits the spot when I want something cozy and filling.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it comes together quickly and uses simple ingredients. The bowtie pasta holds the creamy sauce perfectly, and the combo of garlic butter, beef, and cheese is irresistibly good. It’s a family-friendly dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- Ground beef
- Butter
- Garlic, minced
- Onion, diced
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
- Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: red pepper flakes, chopped parsley for garnish
directions
- I cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, I cook the ground beef and onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. I drain any excess fat.
- I add butter and garlic to the skillet and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- I stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- I add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together.
- I sprinkle in mozzarella or cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
- I finish with Parmesan cheese and garnish with parsley or red pepper flakes if I want a little kick.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 and takes about 30 minutes to make.
Variations
Sometimes I use ground turkey or sausage instead of beef. For a creamier version, I add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese. I’ve also stirred in spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies.
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I use the microwave or a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, I’ve made this with penne, rotini, and shells—all work great.
What cheese is best for this recipe?
I love using a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan, but cheddar or provolone also taste great.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, I prep everything and reheat it when ready to serve. It holds up well in the fridge.
How do I make this spicier?
I add red pepper flakes or a little hot sauce to the garlic butter while it cooks.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, I freeze it in a sealed container for up to 2 months and reheat it in the oven or microwave.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is the kind of dish I turn to when I need something quick, satisfying, and full of flavor. With simple ingredients and a rich, cheesy finish, it’s always a hit at the table.
Print
Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American Comfort Food
Description
This Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is a hearty, family-friendly dinner made with tender pasta, savory ground beef, melty cheese, and a rich garlic butter sauce. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s the ultimate cozy, one-pan comfort food for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 8 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for cooking beef, optional)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: red pepper flakes, chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook bowtie pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until beef is browned and onion is softened. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter and beef mixture.
- Sprinkle in shredded mozzarella or cheddar and stir until melted and creamy.
- Finish with grated Parmesan and garnish with red pepper flakes or parsley, if desired.
Notes
- Use ground turkey or sausage for a twist.
- Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra veggies.
- A splash of heavy cream or cream cheese makes it even richer.
- Best served warm but reheats well for leftovers.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *