Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
A savory dish like Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy family dinner or hosting friends, this meal brings comfort and flavor to the table. The tender bowtie pasta, seasoned ground beef, and rich garlic butter sauce create a satisfying combination that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be on your table in just 35 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This cheesy beef pasta comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The garlic butter sauce combined with melted cheese ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
- Versatile: Great for any occasion, from casual dinners to potlucks, this dish is sure to impress.
- Kid-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness and fun bowtie shape, kids will love this meal.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one skillet!
Tools and Preparation
To create the ultimate Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter, you’ll need a few essential tools to make the process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Necessary for boiling the pasta evenly without crowding.
- Skillet: Ideal for cooking the beef mixture and creating the garlic butter sauce all in one place.
- Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly when making sauces.
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 Cheesy Finish
- 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, about 5-7 minutes.
– Add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.
– Stir in Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), 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 to a gentle simmer; cook until it begins to thicken, 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 skillet; toss everything evenly in sauce. If too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer cheesy beef and bowtie pasta to serving bowls. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
By following these steps, you’ll have a delectable plate of Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter ready for your loved ones! Enjoy!
How to Serve Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
Serving Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is an opportunity to create a delightful dining experience. This dish is not only rich in flavor but also visually appealing, making it perfect for family meals or dinner parties.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Parsley: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
- Basil: Add torn basil leaves for an aromatic twist that complements the dish.
Pair with a Salad
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons pairs beautifully.
- Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds a refreshing crunch.
Serve with Bread
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread can be a perfect side to scoop up the cheesy goodness.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls are great for mopping up the rich garlic butter sauce.
Incorporate Vegetables
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli not only adds nutrition but also balances the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus spears offer a nice texture contrast and enhance the meal’s presentation.
How to Perfect Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
To achieve the best results with your Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter, consider these helpful tips.
- bold Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook your bowtie pasta just until al dente. This keeps it firm and prevents mushiness when mixed with the sauce.
- bold Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will enhance the flavors significantly compared to dried versions.
- bold Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook! Adjust salt, pepper, and seasoning levels according to your preference for a personalized touch.
- bold Choose Quality Cheese: Using high-quality mozzarella and Parmesan cheese will elevate the creaminess of your cheesy sauce.
- bold Reserve Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water is great for adjusting sauce consistency. Use it wisely!
- bold Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving helps all flavors meld together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
Pairing sides with your delicious Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some excellent options.
- bold Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread brushed with butter makes an irresistible addition.
- bold Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing offers a refreshing contrast.
- bold Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans provide a vibrant color and healthy option alongside the pasta.
- bold Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add bright flavors.
- bold Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts bring depth of flavor and texture to your plate.
- bold Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add crunch and balance out the richness of the pasta dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:
-
Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the bowtie pasta too long can lead to a mushy texture. Always follow package instructions and check for al dente.
-
Not Seasoning the Beef: Failing to season the beef properly results in bland flavors. Use salt, pepper, and spices generously while cooking.
-
Skipping the Roux: Neglecting to create a roux with flour and butter can leave your sauce runny. Take the time to whisk it together until smooth before adding milk.
-
Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting. For the best texture, shred your cheese fresh.
-
Ignoring the Reserved Pasta Water: Forgetting to reserve pasta water can lead to a dry dish. This starchy water is perfect for adjusting sauce consistency.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It will keep well for up to 3 days.
Freezing Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
- Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and consume within 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
-
Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
-
Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through.
-
Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter:
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes! While bowtie pasta is great, you can substitute it with penne or fusilli for similar results.
What can I add to enhance flavor?
Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor in your cheesy beef pasta.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Swap ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version of this recipe.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can cook everything ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is a delightful recipe that’s both comforting and flexible. It’s perfect for busy weeknights but also allows room for customization. Try adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the cheese blend to suit your taste!
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 savory dish combines tender bowtie pasta with seasoned ground beef, all enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce topped with gooey melted cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, it comes together in just 35 minutes. Our one-pan recipe minimizes cleanup while delivering maximum flavor that will satisfy both adults and kids alike. With its delightful combination of textures and tastes, this cheesy pasta dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 12 oz bowtie pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 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
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook bowtie pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook ground beef until browned. Add onion and garlic and sauté until soft. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté additional garlic. Whisk in flour, then gradually add milk to create a roux.
- Stir in cheeses until melted, then add cooked pasta and beef mixture. Mix well, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
- Serve garnished with parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g (Approx.)
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
