This Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter dish is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that makes it perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering, this recipe promises to satisfy everyone at the table. With its creamy garlic butter sauce and savory beef, this pasta dish is not only quick to prepare but also rich in flavor, ensuring it becomes a staple in your meal rotation.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Pasta
- For the Meat Sauce
- For the Creamy Sauce
- For Garnish
- How to Make Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Step 2: Brown the Beef
- Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Step 5: Melt the Cheese
- Step 6: Combine with Pasta
- Step 7: Serve
- How to Serve Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter
- Family Style
- Individual Plates
- With Fresh Salad
- Bread on the Side
- Wine Pairing
- How to Perfect Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter
- Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter
- Reheating Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I customize Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter?
- What should I serve with Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter?
- How do I make Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter gluten-free?
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
- How long does it take to prepare Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy nights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic butter and cheesy goodness elevates the taste to a whole new level.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or substituting the protein.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and cheesy flavors, ensuring everyone cleans their plate.
- One-Pot Wonder: Most of the cooking happens in one skillet, which means less cleanup for you!
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience seamless, here are some essential tools that will help you create this cheesy beef and bowtie pasta.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot
- Colander
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A large skillet allows for even cooking of the ground beef and helps combine all ingredients effectively.
- Pot: A good pot is essential for boiling the pasta to perfection without sticking together.
- Colander: Draining pasta properly ensures that excess water doesn’t dilute your creamy sauce.
- Wooden spoon: This tool is gentle on cookware and perfect for mixing ingredients without scratching surfaces.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz bowtie pasta
For the Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For the Creamy Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil the bowtie pasta according to package directions. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Season with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Gradually mix in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
Step 6: Combine with Pasta
Toss in the cooked pasta, stirring to coat. Add reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
Step 7: Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter!
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. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, presentation is key to making this dish shine.
Family Style
- Serve the pasta in a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves. Garnish with extra parsley for a pop of color.
Individual Plates
- Plate the pasta into individual bowls and top each serving with additional cheese. This makes for an elegant presentation.
With Fresh Salad
- Pair the dish with a light salad, such as a Caesar or mixed greens salad, to balance the richness of the cheesy pasta.
Bread on the Side
- Offer slices of garlic bread or a baguette for dipping into the creamy sauce, enhancing the meal’s flavor profile.
Wine Pairing
- Consider serving with a glass of white wine, like Chardonnay, which complements the garlic butter sauce beautifully.
How to Perfect Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter
Perfecting your Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is a hit every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and quality cheeses will enhance the flavor significantly.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: This allows the pasta to maintain its texture and not become mushy when combined with the sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook! Adjust salt, pepper, and spices based on your preference for heat and flavor.
- Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy water helps create a silky sauce. Use it to adjust consistency as needed.
- Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for varied flavors.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporating vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini can add nutrition and color to your dish.

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 great options that complement this rich dish well.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted bread spread with garlic butter is perfect for sopping up leftover sauce.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing balances well against the creamy pasta.
- Steamed Broccoli: A simple vegetable side that adds crunch and nutrition without overpowering flavors.
- Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears provide a fresh contrast to the richness of the pasta.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil make for a refreshing side that pairs nicely.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity that cuts through the heaviness of the dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.
- Overcooking the Pasta: Overcooked pasta becomes mushy and loses its texture. Follow the package instructions for cooking time and taste test before draining.
- Not Draining the Beef Well: Excess fat from beef can make the dish greasy. Always drain the fat after browning the beef to keep your sauce creamy.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold cream or cheese can cause them to seize up. Let these ingredients sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before using them.
- Skipping Seasoning: Underseasoned dishes can taste bland. Make sure to season your sauce well with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for flavor.
- Not Reserving Pasta Water: This starchy water helps to adjust the sauce’s consistency. Always remember to reserve some before draining your pasta!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Add pasta to a skillet over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I customize Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter?
You can easily customize this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or using different types of cheese based on your preference.
What should I serve with Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter?
This dish pairs well with a simple salad or garlic bread. You could also serve it with roasted vegetables for added nutrition.
How do I make Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute regular bowtie pasta with gluten-free bowtie pasta.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a lighter option that works well in this recipe while still maintaining great flavor.
How long does it take to prepare Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter?
The total time is approximately 30 minutes, making it a quick and easy option for busy weeknights.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is not just rich and comforting but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to modify the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Your family will love this quick meal!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
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Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter, a quick and satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This creamy pasta is enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce, with savory ground beef and melty cheeses creating a comforting meal that everyone will love. In just 30 minutes, you can serve up this one-pot wonder that promises to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Customize it with your favorite veggies or spices for added flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients
- 12 oz bowtie pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain, reserving half a cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for about one minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if desired).
- Gradually stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Toss in the cooked pasta, adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 110mg