Garlic Butter Beef &Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that makes your kitchen smell heavenly, you’ve come to the right place! This Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. It’s packed with savory ground beef, rich garlic butter sauce, and gooey melted cheese, making it an instant family favorite. Whether you’re racing against the clock on a busy weeknight or gathering around the table for a family dinner, this dish is perfect for any occasion.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to whip up yet so satisfying. The unique bowtie pasta shape holds onto all that cheesy goodness beautifully. Trust me, once you try this comforting meal, it’ll become a go-to in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves cheesy pasta! It’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• One-pan meal: Fewer dishes mean more time to enjoy your meal with loved ones.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of garlic butter and melted cheese creates an irresistible taste.
• Make ahead option: You can easily prep this dish in advance for even easier weeknight dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need to create this delicious Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta!

• 12 oz bowtie pasta
• 1 lb ground beef
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Variations

The beauty of this Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun ways you can mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option that still delivers on flavor.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or steamed broccoli for an extra boost of nutrients and color.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute the bowtie pasta with gluten-free pasta shapes—just make sure to cook them according to package instructions!
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little kick if you enjoy some heat in your meals.

How to Make Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cooking the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente ensures it has the right texture and won’t turn mushy when mixed with the sauce. Once cooked, drain and set aside while you prepare the rest.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and fully cooked. This step is essential as it builds the foundation of flavor for our dish. Don’t forget to drain any excess grease! Seasoning with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning adds depth to the meat.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and add butter to the skillet with the beef. Melting the butter together with garlic creates a fragrant sauce that will infuse every bite. Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant but not burnt—garlic can be sensitive!

Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the beef broth while stirring well. Allowing this mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes thickens it slightly, making sure every ingredient melds perfectly together.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese

Add your drained pasta back into the skillet with all that deliciousness! Toss everything together thoroughly before sprinkling shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Stir until everything is melted and creamy—it’s pure comfort food magic.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Remove from heat, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over your dish along with fresh parsley for garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

Cooking this dish is a breeze, but a few extra tips can take it from great to absolutely delicious!

• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic packs a bigger flavor punch than pre-minced alternatives. It adds a lovely aroma and depth to the garlic butter sauce, making your dish even more enticing.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking the bowtie pasta al dente ensures it retains some bite and doesn’t become mushy when combined with the sauce. This texture contrast enhances the overall eating experience.
• Experiment with Cheeses: While cheddar is delightful, don’t hesitate to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for added creaminess and flavor. Each cheese brings its unique taste and meltability.
• Add Vegetables: Consider tossing in some frozen peas or spinach at the last minute of cooking for an extra nutritional boost. They not only add color but also enhance the dish’s flavor profile without overpowering it.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning based on your preference. Tasting as you go ensures that your final dish is perfectly seasoned.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

Presentation can make all the difference when serving this comforting dish! Here are some ideas to elevate your meal experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes will give your dish an exciting kick.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: The perfect accompaniment, garlic bread is great for soaking up any leftover sauce. Its crispy texture pairs beautifully with the creamy pasta.
• Caesar Salad (without anchovies): A crisp Caesar salad with crunchy romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and croutons offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutrients, balancing out the hearty flavors of the main dish while providing a nice crunch.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots complements the pasta perfectly while adding variety to your plate.

By following these serving suggestions and tips, you’ll create an irresistible meal that everyone will adore! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Divide the cooled pasta into portion-sized containers or freezer bags.
• Squeeze out excess air before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen pasta overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I use another type of pasta for Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute bowtie pasta with any shape you have on hand, such as penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

How can I make Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta healthier?

You can make this dish healthier by using lean ground beef or swapping it for ground turkey. You could also add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to boost its nutritional value.

Can I prepare Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can cook it ahead and store it in the fridge or freezer, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.

What should I serve with Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Breadsticks or garlic bread would also complement it nicely!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delightful Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta! Its comforting flavors and creamy texture are sure to bring smiles around your dinner table. Don’t hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family; it’s perfect for any occasion. Happy cooking!