This Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is the ultimate comfort food! Tender bowtie pasta, juicy ground beef, and a rich, garlicky butter sauce come together in one satisfying dish. Topped with melty cheese, this is an easy, hearty meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy & Cheesy – Melted cheese coats every bite, making this dish irresistible.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes with simple pantry staples.
- Kid-Friendly – A family favorite packed with cheesy, garlicky goodness.
- One-Pan Wonder – Minimal cleanup for maximum flavor.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this cheesy, garlicky pasta dish:
- Bowtie pasta (Farfalle) – Holds onto the sauce beautifully.
- Ground beef – Adds heartiness and protein.
- Butter – The base of the rich garlic butter sauce.
- Garlic – Infuses the butter with deep flavor.
- Heavy cream – Creates a luscious, creamy texture.
- Parmesan cheese – Enhances the garlic butter with a nutty, salty finish.
- Mozzarella cheese – Melts into gooey, stretchy perfection.
- Italian seasoning – Adds a touch of herbaceous flavor.
- Salt & pepper – Essential for balancing flavors.
- Red pepper flakes (optional) – A little spice for heat lovers.
👉 Note: Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below!
How to Make Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease and set the beef aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked beef and drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Step 6: Melt the Mozzarella
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the pasta, cover, and let it melt for 2-3 minutes until bubbly.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy
Garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh parsley, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm and dig in!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Cook it just until al dente to maintain the perfect texture.
- Use Fresh Garlic – It makes all the difference in flavor!
- Customize the Cheese – Swap mozzarella for cheddar or gouda for a unique twist.
- Make it Spicy – Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for heat.
How to Serve
Here are some delicious ways to enjoy this pasta:
- With a Side Salad – A crisp Caesar or Greek salad balances the richness.
- Garlic Bread – The ultimate pairing for extra garlicky goodness.
- Roasted Veggies – Try roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms on the side.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes! Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli all work well in this dish.Can I make this without heavy cream? Absolutely! Swap it for whole milk or half-and-half for a lighter option.What protein alternatives can I use? Ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage are great substitutes for beef.How can I make it gluten-free? Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.This Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is everything you want in a comforting, flavorful meal. Quick, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying—trust me, this one’s a keeper! 🍝🧄🧀