There’s nothing quite like sinking your fork into a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter is exactly that kind of meal—an easy dinner recipe that turns simple pantry staples into a dinner table triumph. You’ll love how the tender bowtie pasta holds onto a luxuriously creamy sauce, made velvety with melted mozzarella and Parmesan, while the ground beef adds that hearty, savory punch we all crave. With just a handful of ingredients and beginner-friendly techniques, this one-pan wonder comes together in about 35 minutes, making it the perfect weeknight winner when time is tight but flavor matters.
As soon as you mix rich garlic-infused butter with a splash of pasta water and optional heavy cream, your kitchen transforms into a cozy haven of comfort food bliss. The combination of Italian seasoning, a pinch of red pepper flakes, and freshly chopped parsley gives this dish its signature character—bright, herby, and just a tad spicy if you like. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or craving a solo feast, this Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta delivers 650 calories of pure satisfaction per serving. It’s a simple, delicious solution for anyone looking to elevate their pasta game without fancy techniques or obscure ingredients. Let’s dive in and awaken those taste buds!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CHEESY BEEF AND BOWTIE PASTA IN GARLIC BUTTER
Before you roll up your sleeves and preheat that skillet, let’s gather the stars of the show. Each ingredient plays an important role in building layers of flavor and texture—crafting a dish that feels decadent without feeling complicated. From the nutty notes of Parmesan to the mellow comfort of butter and pasta water magic, here’s what you’ll need:
- Bowtie pasta
The perfect vessel for creamy sauces, bowtie (farfalle) pasta traps every bit of garlic butter and cheese in its pleats, giving each bite a satisfying, pillowy texture.
- Ground beef
This hearty protein brings a savory depth to the dish. As it browns, it develops rich caramelized bits that boost flavor and create a satisfying meaty base.
- Olive oil
A drizzle of olive oil helps brown the beef evenly and adds a subtle fruity aroma. It’s the ideal cooking medium before introducing garlic and butter.
- Garlic
Minced garlic infuses the dish with an irresistible aroma and mild pungency. It’s the backbone of our garlic butter sauce and ties everything together.
- Italian seasoning
A combination of dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme adds fragrant, Mediterranean-inspired notes that complement both meat and cheese.
- Red pepper flakes
Optional but highly recommended for a gentle kick. They enliven the creamy sauce with a touch of heat that balances richness.
- Salt and pepper
Essential for seasoning, these two simple staples heighten all the other flavors and ensure your pasta is perfectly seasoned.
- Mozzarella cheese
Known for its melty, gooey texture, shredded mozzarella brings a luscious, stretchy quality that makes every forkful extra comforting.
- Parmesan cheese
This hard, aged cheese introduces nutty, salty undertones that cut through the creaminess and add a delightful savory edge.
- Unsalted butter
The foundation of our garlic butter sauce. It creates a smooth, glossy coating that adheres to pasta and meat, delivering richness in every bite.
- Fresh parsley
Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness, perfectly balancing the dish’s richer components.
- Heavy cream or half-and-half
Optional but recommended for an ultra-silky sauce. A splash of cream elevates the texture, making the final dish irresistibly lush.
HOW TO MAKE CHEESY BEEF AND BOWTIE PASTA IN GARLIC BUTTER
Let’s walk through this recipe step by step—transforming simple ingredients into a show-stopping, crowd-pleasing dinner with minimal effort. Follow along for clear, beginner-friendly instructions that guide you from boiling pasta to plating up a hearty bowl of cheesy goodness.
1. Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. This reserved water will help bind your sauce and cheese together without thinning it out too much.
2. In a large skillet set over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. When the oil is shimmering, add the ground beef. Break up the meat with a spatula, spreading it in an even layer so it browns nicely. Cook until the beef is deeply browned and cooked through, then carefully drain any excess fat.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked beef and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until the garlic turns translucent and releases its fragrant aroma—being careful not to let it burn.
4. Stir in the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure every morsel of meat is coated in those savory herbs and warming spices.
5. Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the beef and garlic. Pour in the reserved pasta water and let it come to a gentle simmer for 1–2 minutes, allowing the starches to create a silky sauce base.
6. Reduce the heat to low and add the butter and heavy cream (if using). Stir until the butter has completely melted and the pasta strands are luxuriously coated in the creamy sauce.
7. Slowly incorporate the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly so the cheese melts evenly and the sauce becomes irresistibly smooth and gooey.
8. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh parsley, distributing its herbaceous brightness throughout the dish.
9. Serve immediately in warm bowls so every serving is at its peak of creamy, cheesy perfection.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CHEESY BEEF AND BOWTIE PASTA IN GARLIC BUTTER
Serving this Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is all about creating a memorable experience at the table. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family night or enjoying a solo indulgence, how you present and pair this dish can elevate it from delicious to downright unforgettable. With some thoughtful touches—crispy accents, fresh sides, and well-chosen garnishes—you can make every bite sing and transform a simple pasta dinner into a feast worth savoring. Here are a few fun ideas to help you plate up like a pro:
- Family-style platter
Transfer the pasta to a large shallow dish and sprinkle extra Parmesan and parsley on top. Let everyone help themselves—perfect for casual gatherings and playful mealtime chats.
- Individual bowls
Create an elegant presentation by twirling servings into deep bowls. Garnish each bowl with a sprig of parsley and a dusting of red pepper flakes for a bistro-worthy touch.
- Crispy garlic bread
Serve alongside hot, buttery garlic bread toasted until golden brown. The crunchy contrast makes every forkful of pasta even more satisfying as you scoop up sauce-soaked breadcrumbs.
- Fresh green salad
Balance the richness with a peppered arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. The peppery greens and bright citrus notes refresh the palate between bites of indulgent pasta.
HOW TO STORE CHEESY BEEF AND BOWTIE PASTA IN GARLIC BUTTER
If you find yourself with leftovers (and trust us, you might), storing this creamy pasta properly ensures you can enjoy every last bite without sacrificing flavor or texture. Keeping your dish fresh for up to three days means you can savor it as quick lunches or after-work dinners—just follow these simple guidelines to lock in moisture and taste:
- Refrigerator storage
Let the pasta cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Seal tightly and store in the fridge for up to three days. The airtight seal prevents the sauce from drying out and keeps flavors vibrant.
- Freezing individual portions
Divide cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to one month. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
- Reheating on the stove
For best results, reheat leftovers in a non-stick skillet over low heat. Add a small amount of cream, milk, or reserved pasta water and stir gently until warmed through, preserving that silky texture.
- Reviving dryness
If the pasta seems dry after storage, stir in extra butter or a drizzle of olive oil during reheating. This adds moisture and richness, bringing the dish back to its original luscious state.
CONCLUSION
Wrapping up this Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter journey, we’ve explored every flavorful moment—from al dente bowtie pasta coated in a dreamy garlic butter sauce to the final sprinkle of fresh parsley that adds a burst of color and brightness. As a beginner-friendly, easy dinner recipe with a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cook time of around 25 minutes, it stands out as the ultimate comfort food choice for busy weeknights. With 650 calories per serving, this dish delivers satisfying portion sizes, and you can easily swap ground beef for turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter version. Remember, you can print this article and save it for later, so you always have a go-to plan for an effortless, crowd-pleasing meal. And if you ever find yourself needing a quick reference, don’t forget to scroll down to the FAQ section below for answers to common questions about ingredients, variations, and troubleshooting.
I hope this guide inspires you to whip up this creamy, cheesy masterpiece and share it with those you love. If you try the recipe or have any questions—perhaps you want tips on adjusting the spice level, substituting ingredients, or mastering that perfect cheese melt—please leave a comment, ask away, or drop your feedback. I’m here to help make your cooking adventure as smooth and enjoyable as possible, and I can’t wait to hear how your Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta turned out!
Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter
Description
Experience comfort in every bite with tender bowtie pasta blended perfectly with seasoned ground beef, creamy mozzarella, and a hint of garlic. This dish is a weeknight winner!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
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In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the ground beef. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spatula, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat.
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Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked beef and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Stir in the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
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Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the beef and garlic. Pour in the reserved pasta water and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes.
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Reduce the heat to low and add the butter and heavy cream (if using), stirring until the butter has melted and the pasta is well coated.
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Slowly incorporate the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until all the cheese has melted and the pasta is creamy.
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Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the fresh parsley.
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Serve immediately in warm bowls. Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter!
Note
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.
- For an extra creamy sauce, use half-and-half or heavy cream.
- Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- This dish pairs well with a green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to rehydrate the pasta.
