Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

This Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is a rich, creamy, and satisfying dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. The combination of tender bowtie pasta, savory ground beef, and a luscious garlic butter sauce makes this a comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. With plenty of melted mozzarella and Parmesan, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
• Rich & Creamy: The garlic butter sauce with melted cheese creates an irresistible texture.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this cheesy, comforting dish.
• Minimal Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and simple ingredients for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Pasta & Meat

• 12 oz (340 g) bowtie pasta
• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

Sauce & Seasoning

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
• ¼ cup (60 ml) reserved pasta water

Cheese

• 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish (Optional)

• 2 tbsp chopped parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions.
2. Before draining, reserve ¼ cup of pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Brown the Beef

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Drain excess grease and transfer the beef to a plate.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

4. Create the Creamy Cheese Sauce

1. Reduce heat to low and add heavy cream and reserved pasta water.
2. Stir in mozzarella cheese, mixing until melted and smooth.

5. Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta and ground beef back into the skillet. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Stir in Parmesan cheese until fully incorporated.

6. Serve & Garnish

1. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
2. Serve warm and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Serve with a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
• A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, complements the creamy flavors.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to maintain creaminess.

Freezing Instructions

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop with a bit of cream or broth.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for heat.
• Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage instead of beef.
• Extra Veggies: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for added texture and nutrition.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bowtie pasta for a celiac-friendly version.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes! Penne, rotini, or fusilli work just as well.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may be slightly less creamy.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the pasta and sauce separately, then combine and reheat when ready to serve.

This Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. It’s a fantastic weeknight meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy the whole family. Try it out and let us know how it turns out!

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