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A bowl of cheesy beef and bowtie pasta in a creamy garlic butter sauce, garnished with fresh parsley, served on a rustic wooden table.

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe

Description

A comforting and hearty pasta dish featuring cheesy beef and bowtie pasta in garlic butter. The rich, creamy sauce coats the pasta perfectly, while the savory ground beef adds a satisfying bite. Topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, this dish is a go-to meal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta and Beef:

  • 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

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%)
  • 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta:

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

  2. Brown the Beef:

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

  3. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce:

    • Using the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
    • Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
    • Whisk in 1 tablespoon of flour and cook for 1–2 minutes.
    • Gradually add 1 cup of milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
    • Simmer for 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

  4. Melt the Cheese:

    • Reduce heat to low, then stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
    • Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

  5. Combine Everything:

    • Toss the cooked bowtie pasta into the garlic butter sauce.
    • Stir in the cooked beef mixture and mix well.
    • If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches the desired consistency.

Notes

  • Make it Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
  • Add Vegetables: Spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers can enhance the dish.
  • Cheese Variations: Swap mozzarella with cheddar or Gruyère for a different flavor.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk for creaminess.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: ~680
  • Sugar: ~4g
  • Sodium: ~650mg
  • Fat: ~38g
  • Saturated Fat: ~18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: ~16g
  • Trans Fat: ~0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: ~55g
  • Fiber: ~3g
  • Protein: ~35g
  • Cholesterol: ~95mg

Keywords: cheesy beef pasta, garlic butter pasta, bowtie pasta recipe, easy pasta dinner, creamy pasta dish, comfort food

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Find it online: https://tastyrecipeschef.com/cheesy-beef-and-bowtie-pasta-in-garlic-butter/