Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter Made Easy!

Name: Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter Made Easy!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz bowtie pasta; 1 lb ground beef; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup butter; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

June 1, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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There’s just something magical about comfort food, isn’t there? It wraps around you like a warm hug, and nothing says comfort quite like a big bowl of cheesy beef and bowtie pasta in garlic butter! This dish is the epitome of cozy dining, and trust me, it’s super easy to whip up, even for beginners. You don’t need to be a culinary wizard to create this delightful meal!

Growing up, family dinners were a treasured time in our home. I can still remember the laughter around the table as we dug into hearty dishes, and this cheesy beef and bowtie pasta was always a highlight. The savory flavors of garlic butter mingling with tender beef and pasta brought everyone together, creating memories that still warm my heart today. Now, I love sharing this recipe with friends and family, making sure the tradition continues. So, let’s dive into this delicious journey together!

cheesy beef and bowtie pasta in garlic butter - detail 1

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this amazing cheesy beef and bowtie pasta in garlic butter. Here’s what you need:

8 oz bowtie pasta: This fun shape holds onto the sauce beautifully. You can find it in the pasta aisle, and don’t worry if you can’t find bowtie – any pasta will do!
1 lb ground beef: Look for lean ground beef to keep it healthier. This is the star of the show, so choose a quality brand that you trust.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is key for that rich flavor! Minced garlic releases all those delicious oils, making your dish smell heavenly.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This adds that cheesy goodness! Grate your own if you can – it melts better than the pre-grated stuff.
1/4 cup butter: Butter is what brings everything together in creamy perfection. Go for unsalted to control the seasoning.
Salt to taste: A little sprinkle helps enhance all the flavors. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
Pepper to taste: Freshly cracked black pepper adds a nice warmth and depth to the dish.
Fresh parsley for garnish: This brightens up the dish and adds a lovely pop of color! Plus, it’s a nice touch for presentation.

Make sure you have everything before you start cooking, and you’ll be set for success!

How to Prepare Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! This step-by-step guide will take you through each part of the process, making it super easy to follow along. Trust me, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!

Cooking the Pasta

First things first, we need to cook our bowtie pasta. Fill a large pot with water, and don’t forget to add a generous pinch of salt! This step is essential as it helps season the pasta while it cooks. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then add in your 8 oz of bowtie pasta.

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. To check for doneness, taste a piece! You want it to be tender but still have a slight bite to it – that’s called al dente. Once it’s perfect, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. Don’t rinse it; we want that starchy goodness to help the sauce stick later!

Making the Garlic Butter Sauce

While your pasta is cooking, let’s whip up that heavenly garlic butter sauce! In a large skillet, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t brown; we want it just melted and bubbly.

Next, add in the 4 cloves of minced garlic. This is where the magic happens! Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant but not browned. Overcooked garlic can taste bitter, so be careful here! You want that sweet, aromatic goodness to fill your kitchen.

Browning the Beef

Now it’s time to add the star of our dish – the ground beef! Add 1 lb of ground beef to the skillet with the garlic butter. As it cooks, use a wooden spoon to break it apart into smaller pieces. This ensures even cooking and gives you that perfect texture.

Cook the beef until it’s nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to season it with salt and pepper to taste as it cooks. If there’s a lot of fat in the pan after cooking, feel free to drain some of it off – we don’t want our dish swimming in grease!

Combining Ingredients

Once the beef is browned and seasoned, it’s time to bring everything together! Add the drained bowtie pasta directly into the skillet with the beef and garlic butter. Gently toss everything together, making sure the pasta is coated in that luscious sauce. This mixing is super important – you want every piece of pasta to be enveloped in that deliciousness!

Adding Cheese and Garnish

Finally, let’s elevate this dish with some cheesy goodness! Sprinkle in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts into the sauce, creating a creamy texture. This is where the magic really happens, and it smells divine!

To finish, garnish your cheesy beef and bowtie pasta with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Not only does it add a beautiful pop of color, but it also brings a fresh flavor that brightens up the dish. Now, it’s time to dig in and enjoy your homemade comfort food masterpiece!

Tips for Success

Before you dive into making your cheesy beef and bowtie pasta in garlic butter, here are some handy tips to ensure everything goes smoothly. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make a big difference, especially for beginners!

Don’t overcook the pasta: It’s easy to get distracted while cooking, but be sure to keep an eye on your pasta. Remember, it should be al dente, which means it should have a slight bite. If you overcook it, the pasta can become mushy, and nobody wants that!
Customize with veggies: Want to sneak in some extra nutrition? Feel free to add vegetables like fresh spinach or bell peppers. Just toss them into the skillet after you sauté the garlic and let them soften for a few minutes before adding the beef. It’s a delicious way to make the dish even heartier!
Use fresh garlic: Fresh garlic makes a world of difference. If you can, skip the pre-minced stuff and use whole cloves. You’ll be amazed at the flavor boost! Just remember not to let it burn – keep stirring!
Adjust the cheese: Parmesan is lovely, but if you’re a cheese lover, feel free to experiment! Try adding a mix of mozzarella for a gooey texture or even some cheddar for a sharper flavor. Just make sure to melt it well into the sauce!
Taste as you go: Don’t be shy! Taste your dish at various stages – when adding garlic, seasoning the beef, and after mixing everything together. This way, you can adjust flavors to your liking and ensure it’s just right!
Save some pasta water: If your sauce seems too thick, save a splash of the starchy pasta water before draining. This can help loosen up the sauce and make it perfectly creamy!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a delicious and comforting meal. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about what’s in our cheesy beef and bowtie pasta in garlic butter! This comforting dish not only satisfies your cravings but is also packed with protein and flavor. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown per serving:

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 450
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so this is just a general guideline. If you’re looking to tweak the recipe for dietary preferences or needs, don’t hesitate to make adjustments. Enjoy your meal, knowing it’s both delicious and satisfying!

FAQ Section

Got questions? No worries! Here are some frequently asked questions about making cheesy beef and bowtie pasta in garlic butter. I’ve got you covered!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cheesy beef and bowtie pasta in advance. Just cook and combine everything, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra butter to keep it moist.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze this dish! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It should last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

What can I substitute for ground beef?

If you’re looking for a substitute, you can try ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, swap the beef for cooked lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly!

Can I add other vegetables to the recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in veggies like diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms. Just sauté them with the garlic before adding the beef. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra nutrition and flavor!

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you like a little heat, you can add red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic or use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef. You can also top your dish with some sliced jalapeños for an extra kick!

What should I serve with this dish?

This cheesy beef and bowtie pasta in garlic butter is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some garlic bread. You could even serve it alongside steamed vegetables for a well-rounded dinner!

If you have more questions or need tips, feel free to reach out! Cooking should be fun, and I’m here to help you every step of the way!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and a total cooking time of about 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time!
Comfort Food at Its Best: This cheesy beef and bowtie pasta in garlic butter is the definition of comfort food. It’s hearty, warm, and oh-so-satisfying, perfect for cozy family dinners.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish! The fun bowtie pasta and cheesy goodness make it appealing to everyone at the table.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the seasonings to suit your family’s taste. This recipe is versatile and can be tailored to fit any palate!
One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup is always a win! All of the cooking happens in one skillet, making it a breeze to prepare and clean up afterwards.
Leftover Friendly: This dish tastes just as good the next day! It’s perfect for meal prep or for enjoying leftovers after a busy day.

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up a delicious batch of cheesy beef and bowtie pasta in garlic butter, it’s time to think about what to serve alongside it! Here are some ideas to complement your meal and create a well-rounded dining experience:

Simple Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad is always a great accompaniment. Toss together some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers, and drizzle with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad balances out the richness of the pasta perfect!
Garlic Bread: Who can resist the allure of warm, buttery garlic bread? Simply slice a baguette, spread with garlic butter, and toast it in the oven. It’s perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce on your plate!
Steamed Vegetables: Adding some color and nutrition with steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots can elevate your meal. The vibrant veggies not only taste great but also add a nice crunch!
Caesar Salad: If you’re feeling a bit fancy, a classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and a creamy dressing pairs beautifully with the cheesy pasta. It’s a crowd-pleaser!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These little gems are not only packed with flavor but also add a delightful texture contrast to your dish. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast until golden brown.

Mix and match these sides based on your mood and what you have on hand. They’ll not only round out your meal but also make it even more enjoyable. Happy dining!