Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is a delightful dish that brings together tender bowtie pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a luscious garlic butter sauce. It’s perfect for family dinners or any occasion when you crave something comforting and delicious. With its gooey melted cheese topping, this recipe stands out as a warm hug for your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic butter and melted cheeses creates an irresistible sauce that complements the beef and pasta perfectly.
• Kid-Friendly: Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta appeals to all ages, ensuring everyone at the table will enjoy it.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your family’s tastes.
• Comforting Meal: It’s a satisfying dish that warms you up, making it perfect for chilly evenings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this cheesy delight, gather the necessary tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing the beef and creating the garlic butter sauce in one pan.
• Colander: Helps drain the pasta effectively while reserving some cooking water for later use.

Ingredients

To make Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter, gather the following ingredients:

• 12 oz (340g) bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 additional cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (240ml) milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart until browned, about 5–7 minutes.
Add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.
Stir in Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Remove the beef mixture from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook until it begins to thicken, about 3 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Reduce the heat to low. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
Add cooked pasta and beef mixture to skillet, tossing to coat everything evenly in sauce.
If sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta to serving bowls. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your comforting meal!

How to Serve Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

Serving Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter can elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make this dish even more enjoyable.

Family Style

• Serve the pasta directly from a large serving bowl for a cozy, family-style dinner. This allows everyone to help themselves and encourages sharing.

Individual Portions

• Plate the cheesy beef pasta in individual bowls. This presentation adds a touch of elegance, perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.

With Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, sprinkle extra mozzarella or Parmesan on top just before serving. A quick broil can melt the cheese beautifully and create a bubbly topping.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Enhance the flavor by garnishing each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or basil. This not only adds color but also freshness to the dish.

Paired with Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside slices of crusty bread or garlic bread. This is perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic butter sauce.

Accompanied by Salad

• A light green salad with vinaigrette pairs well with this rich dish, balancing out flavors and adding freshness.

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How to Perfect Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

To ensure your Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, herbs, and quality cheeses enhance the flavor significantly.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking pasta al dente prevents it from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process for optimal flavor.
• Incorporate Vegetables: Add spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
• Control Sauce Thickness: If your sauce thickens too much, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
• Allow Rest Time: Letting the dish sit for a few minutes before serving helps the flavors meld together nicely.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

Pairing side dishes with your Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy slices of garlic bread are great for dipping into leftover sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and bright flavors that complement the richness of the pasta.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious balance to the hearty pasta dish.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender bring additional flavor and texture.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a crunchy contrast that pairs well with creamy dishes.
6. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing side with Italian flair.
7. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a touch of sweetness that works beautifully with savory flavors.
8. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can be a refreshing palate cleanser after a rich main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people overlook key steps when making Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the Salting Step: Not salting the pasta water can lead to bland pasta. Always make sure your water is salty like the sea before adding the pasta.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking bowtie pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions for al dente texture, which holds up better in the sauce.

• Not Browning the Beef Properly: Failing to brown the ground beef well can result in a lack of flavor. Ensure you cook it until it’s nicely browned before adding other ingredients.

• Neglecting to Reserve Pasta Water: Forgetting to save some pasta water can mean missing out on a creamy sauce. This starchy water helps to thicken and bind your dish beautifully.

• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Using cheap cheese can affect the overall taste. Opt for good quality mozzarella and Parmesan for optimal cheesiness and flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It will maintain quality for about 2-3 months.

Reheating Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or milk and stir until heated, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter, we’ve got answers!

How can I customize Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. You can also swap ground beef for turkey or chicken if desired.

Can I use whole wheat bowtie pasta?

Yes! Whole wheat bowtie pasta is a great alternative that adds fiber while still maintaining a similar texture.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is perfect for meal prep. Just store individual portions in containers for easy reheating throughout the week.

What can I serve with this dish?

This pasta pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread. Both options complement the richness of the dish nicely.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is not just a comforting dish; it’s also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or enjoy it as-is! Give this recipe a try, and you’ll find it quickly becomes a family favorite!