Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter Recipe

There's nothing quite like a hearty bowl of cheesy beef and bowtie pasta coated in rich garlic butter. The combination of tender pasta, savory ground beef, and melty cheese creates a comforting dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a little extra warmth on your plate.

this Recipe

I first stumbled upon this recipe when trying to whip up something quick using pantry staples. The result was an instant hit with my family, and now it's a regular request in our household. The best part? It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an easy, budget-friendly meal that's packed with flavor.

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter

Get ready to fall in love with this creamy, cheesy pasta dish. It's the perfect combination of comfort and convenience.

First off, this recipe is incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few basic cooking steps, you can have a satisfying meal on the table in no time.

It's also a great budget-friendly option. Ground beef is an affordable protein choice, and the rest of the ingredients are likely already in your pantry or fridge. That means you can serve up a delicious homemade dinner without breaking the bank.

Not to mention, it's family-friendly. Even picky eaters will love the creamy, cheesy goodness, and the bowtie pasta makes it fun to eat for both kids and adults.

Finally, it's versatile. You can switch up the protein, add veggies, or experiment with different cheeses to make it your own. No matter how you customize it, the garlic butter base keeps everything rich and flavorful.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish lies in its simple, yet flavorful ingredients. Each component adds depth and texture, creating a meal that's both satisfying and delicious.

Bowtie pasta is the perfect shape for this recipe. Its ridges and folds hold onto the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. If you don't have bowtie pasta, penne or rotini work just as well.

Ground beef provides a rich, hearty base. I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the best balance of flavor and tenderness. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted without sacrificing taste.

Garlic butter is what sets this dish apart. A combination of melted butter and fresh minced garlic infuses the pasta with an irresistible aroma and depth of flavor. For an extra kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Cheese is what brings everything together. A blend of cheddar and mozzarella creates the perfect creamy consistency, melting beautifully into the pasta and beef. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Parmesan for a unique twist.

A large skillet and pot are all you need to bring this dish together. Make sure to have a good nonstick pan on hand for easy cleanup and even cooking.

How To Make This Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter

This dish comes together in just a few simple steps, making it a fantastic option for a quick and satisfying meal.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about half a cup of the pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess grease and remove the beef from the skillet, setting it aside.

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can become bitter.

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir to combine. Add the cooked pasta and mix everything together, ensuring the garlic butter evenly coats the pasta and beef.

Lower the heat and sprinkle in the shredded cheese, stirring continuously until it's melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

In just about 25 minutes, you'll have a cheesy, garlicky pasta dish that's ready to serve. The flavors meld beautifully, and the creamy texture makes it an instant comfort food favorite.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, this dish stores well and makes for a great next-day meal. Simply transfer any remaining pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days.

To reheat, add a splash of water or milk to the pasta before microwaving it in 30-second increments, stirring between intervals. This helps revive the creamy texture and prevents it from drying out.

For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few ideas to switch things up and make it your own.

If you're looking to add more protein, try swapping the ground beef for cooked Italian sausage, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even shrimp for a seafood twist.

For a veggie-packed version, toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers. These add color, texture, and extra nutrients without compromising flavor.

Want to spice things up? Add a dash of cayenne pepper, a drizzle of hot sauce, or some crushed red pepper flakes to give your pasta a little heat.

If you're trying to lighten it up, you can substitute the butter with olive oil and use reduced-fat cheese. While the dish won't be quite as indulgent, it will still be packed with flavor.

No matter how you make it, this cheesy beef and bowtie pasta in garlic butter is a delicious, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Try it out, experiment with your favorite ingredients, and enjoy every bite!

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