If you’re on the hunt for a comforting yet impressive dinner that’ll have everyone asking for seconds, this Cheesy Garlic Butter Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe is your answer. Imagine tender bowtie pasta smothered in a rich garlicky butter sauce, layered with perfectly browned ground beef, and finished off with ooey-gooey mozzarella and Parmesan. It’s a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that’s not just delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a casual gathering, this dish brings a warm, homey vibe that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Cheesy Garlic Butter Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe plays a key role, making the preparation simple yet the result absolutely delicious. From the savory ground beef to the creamy cheeses and fragrant garlic, each addition builds layers of flavor and texture that you’ll love.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides a hearty, savory base with rich flavor and satisfying protein.
- 8 oz bowtie pasta: Fun and sturdy, it holds sauce beautifully with just the right bite when cooked al dente.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps brown the beef and adds a subtle fruity richness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic depth and a mild spicy warmth.
- 1 cup beef broth: Adds savory moisture and develops the sauce’s richness.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates a luxuriously smooth texture and balances flavors with gentle creaminess.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a nutty, salty punch that thickens the sauce.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, adding gooey, cheesy goodness on top.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Introduces a silky finish and boosts savory richness without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings fragrant herbal notes like oregano and basil that mingle perfectly here.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that highlight all the other flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish: Adds a bright, fresh pop of color and mild herbaceous contrast.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Butter Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil—it’s the first step to perfectly tender pasta. Adding salt seasons the pasta from within. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions, aiming for al dente texture so it holds its shape well when mixed with sauce. Once done, drain and set aside to await its cheesy partner.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, in a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil to give your beef a nice sear. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it browns. Make sure to cook until nicely caramelized but not overdone. Then drain off any excess fat to keep the dish balanced, avoiding greasiness while maintaining rich flavor.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to your beef. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently so the garlic releases its incredible aroma without burning. This step is crucial—this garlicky base is what makes the sauce so flavorful and irresistible.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Let this mixture gently simmer for a few minutes. The broth adds depth while the cream lends a lush smoothness, melding the flavors together beautifully. Keep an eye on the heat to avoid boiling, as you want a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Melt in the Parmesan Cheese
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and thicken the sauce slightly. Parmesan is the magic ingredient here; it adds a nutty, salty dimension and helps the sauce cling to the pasta for maximum flavor with every bite.
Step 6: Toss in the Cooked Pasta
Add the drained bowtie pasta directly into the skillet. Toss everything together carefully so each pasta piece gets coated evenly with that luscious sauce. This step ensures every forkful delivers that perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with savory beef.
Step 7: Add the Mozzarella and Melt
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes. This gentle steaming melts the mozzarella until it’s gooey and bubbly—oh, the anticipation of that cheese pull!
Step 8: Finish with Butter and Italian Seasoning
Finally, stir in the unsalted butter and sprinkle over the Italian seasoning. This last touch enriches the dish with silky texture and fragrant herbal notes. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything into a harmonious, cheesy garlic butter beef and bowtie pasta masterpiece.
How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Butter Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Chopped fresh parsley is a simple but perfect garnish. Its vibrant green adds a burst of freshness and a slight herbal brightness that cuts through the richness of the cheesy butter sauce. Feel free to also sprinkle extra grated Parmesan on top for some added salty flair and a beautiful presentation.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus provides balance. A light citrus vinaigrette can refresh the palate, making your meal feel complete and satisfyingly fresh without overshadowing the pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Cheesy Garlic Butter Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe family-style in a large rustic skillet right at the table for a cozy, communal vibe. For a special occasion, plate individual portions in shallow bowls and drizzle with extra melted butter or garlic-infused oil. Adding a sprinkle of red chili flakes can offer a subtle spicy kick for adventurous eaters.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Garlic Butter Beef and Bowtie Pasta keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before storing to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. This makes it a great option for your next-day lunch or a quick dinner fix.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, though it’s best done without the fresh parsley garnish. Pack it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When thawed, some of the creamy sauce might separate slightly, but gentle reheating with stirring will bring it back to its creamy glory.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of beef broth or cream while reheating can revive the sauce’s creaminess and prevent it from drying out. Avoid microwaving on high to keep the textures just right.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta works beautifully because of its shape and texture, you can swap it for penne, rotini, or even shells. Just make sure to cook it al dente so it holds up well to the creamy sauce.
Is ground beef the only meat option I can use?
You can definitely substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. Each adds its unique taste while maintaining the hearty foundation of the dish.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, skip the ground beef and use mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative. Increase the garlic and seasonings slightly to keep the flavors robust and satisfying.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, the Cheesy Garlic Butter Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe is great for meal prepping since it stores and reheats well. Just keep the pasta and sauce combined and reheat gently to enjoy a fresh-tasting meal throughout the week.
What can I do if I don’t have heavy cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese to maintain the creamy texture. Be sure to stir continually to prevent curdling, and adjust quantities to suit your preferred richness.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Garlic Butter Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe truly feels like a warm hug in dinner form. Its blend of rich, comforting flavors paired with simple ingredients makes it a go-to for satisfying hungry hearts and tummies alike. I can’t wait for you to whip this up and make it a beloved staple in your home. Happy cooking, and here’s to many delicious meals ahead!
Print
Cheesy Garlic Butter Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 20m
- Total Time: 0h 30m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A creamy and comforting one-pan dish featuring ground beef, bowtie pasta, and a rich garlic butter sauce loaded with melted Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, finished with Italian seasoning and fresh parsley for a flavorful family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 oz bowtie pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat.
- Sauté Garlic: Reduce heat to medium, add minced garlic to the beef, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in beef broth and heavy cream. Stir well and allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.
- Incorporate Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt to slightly thicken the sauce.
- Toss Pasta: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet, mixing well to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Top with Mozzarella: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta and cover the skillet with a lid. Let sit for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
- Finish with Butter and Seasoning: Add unsalted butter and Italian seasoning, stirring gently to combine all flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top, and serve immediately for a fulfilling cheesy garlic butter beef pasta experience.
Notes
- For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to personal taste after adding cheese.
- Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness but can be omitted if unavailable.
- The dish can be reheated gently on the stovetop with a splash of beef broth to loosen the sauce.
- For a spicier twist, add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
