Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
A comforting weeknight dinner like Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is sure to please everyone at the table. This savory dish combines tender bowtie pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a rich garlic butter sauce, all topped with gooey melted cheese. It’s perfect for family gatherings, casual dinners, or when you crave something hearty yet easy to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
- Flavorful & Satisfying: The rich garlic butter sauce combined with cheesy goodness makes every bite a delight.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this dish, making it a great option for family dinners.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping the cheese types.
- Leftover Friendly: This dish stores well and reheats like a dream, perfect for lunch the next day.
Tools and Preparation
Preparing Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is straightforward with the right tools. Here’s what you need to make this delicious dish.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking the bowtie pasta evenly and efficiently.
- Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing the beef and creating the garlic butter sauce in one pan.
- Colander: Useful for draining the pasta without losing any pieces.
Ingredients
A savory and satisfying dish that combines tender bowtie pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a rich garlic butter sauce. Finished with gooey melted cheese, this dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
For the Pasta
- 12 oz (340g) bowtie pasta (farfalle)
For the Beef Mixture
- 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
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 additional cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (240ml) milk (whole or 2%)
For the Cheese Topping
- 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 for about 5-7 minutes.
– Add the chopped onion and minced garlic.
– Cook until the onion is soft and translucent for about 3 minutes.
– Stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using), then 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 minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
– Whisk in flour; cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
– Gradually add milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
– Bring mixture to a gentle simmer; cook until it begins to thicken for about 3 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Reduce heat to low; stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
– Add cooked pasta and beef mixture to the skillet; toss everything evenly in the 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.
This delightful dish serves four people—perfect for sharing! Enjoy your 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, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance this comforting dish.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
- Basil Leaves: Add whole basil leaves for an aromatic touch.
Pair with Bread
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread on the side for a delicious way to soak up the sauce.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls are great for mopping up any leftover garlic butter sauce.
Include a Salad
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and a creamy contrast to the cheesy pasta.
- Garden Salad: A light garden salad with a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish.
Offer Extra Cheese
- Grated Parmesan: Provide extra grated Parmesan cheese at the table for those who love more cheesy goodness.
- Cheddar Cheese: For a different flavor, shredded cheddar can be a delightful addition.
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, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance the flavor significantly compared to dried.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook pasta until al dente; it will continue cooking when combined with the sauce.
- Adjust Cheese Levels: Feel free to mix different cheeses like gouda or provolone for unique flavors.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste your sauce before serving, adjusting seasoning as necessary to suit your preference.
Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
Complete your meal with delightful side dishes that complement your main course. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil and garlic adds color and nutrition.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy crunch that pairs well with creamy pasta.
- Coleslaw: The crisp texture of coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pasta.
- Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve spiralized zucchini tossed in olive oil as a side dish.
- Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes topped with sour cream make for a hearty addition.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a light and flavorful side.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking can be fun, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls when preparing Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the Pasta Water: Always reserve a bit of the pasta cooking water. It helps adjust the sauce’s consistency and adds flavor.
- Undercooking the Beef: Ensure that the ground beef is thoroughly browned. This enhances the flavor and ensures safety.
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cook the bowtie pasta until al dente for the best texture. Overcooked pasta becomes mushy and loses its appeal.
- Not Letting Cheese Melt Properly: Allow time for cheeses to melt into the sauce completely. Stir continuously for a creamy texture.
- Ignoring Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and spices to suit your preference for maximum flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
- Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter, you’re not alone. Here are some common inquiries.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! While bowtie pasta works great, you can substitute with penne or fusilli for different textures.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Feel free to use ground turkey, chicken, or even meat alternatives like lentils for a vegetarian version.
How do I make it spicier?
To add heat, increase red pepper flakes or serve with hot sauce on the side.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can cook it a day ahead and reheat it when ready to serve for convenience.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta to keep the dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is a delightful blend of flavors that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner. Its creamy sauce paired with tender beef makes it truly satisfying. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices to make it uniquely yours!
Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter. This crowd-pleasing dish features tender bowtie pasta enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce, perfectly seasoned ground beef, and topped with gooey melted cheese. Ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also customizable to suit your preferences. With its savory flavors and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Plus, it makes for delightful leftovers that reheat beautifully!
Ingredients
- 12 oz bowtie pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (2 for beef mixture, 2 for sauce)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, optional red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Cook bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve ½ cup of cooking water.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned (5-7 minutes). Stir in onion and garlic; cook until softened (3 minutes). Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté remaining garlic for one minute. Whisk in flour; gradually add milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until thickened (about 3 minutes).
- Stir in cheeses until melted. Combine with pasta and beef mixture; toss until coated.
- Serve garnished with parsley and additional cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
