Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

This Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta is a delightful comfort food dish that combines savory flavors and satisfying textures. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe showcases the rich taste of garlic butter paired with tender ground beef and gooey cheese. The unique shape of bowtie pasta ensures every bite is filled with cheesy goodness. Whether you’re in need of a quick meal or a crowd-pleaser, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a busy schedule.
• Flavorful Comfort: The rich garlic butter sauce combined with melted cheese creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Versatile Meal: Ideal for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering.
• Kid-Friendly: The fun bowtie pasta shape and cheesy goodness appeal to kids of all ages.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required since everything is prepared in one skillet!

Tools and Preparation

To make Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta, having the right tools can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the pasta evenly and achieving the perfect al dente texture.
• Skillet: Provides ample space for cooking the ground beef and combining all ingredients effectively.
• Colander: Helps drain the pasta quickly without losing any precious noodles.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 12 oz bowtie pasta

For the Beef Mixture

• 1 lb ground beef
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

How to Make Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease. Season the beef with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and add butter to the skillet with the beef. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Simmer Together

Pour in beef broth, stirring well. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and stir until melted and creamy.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from heat, sprinkle with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley, and serve immediately. Enjoy!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

Serving Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta can be as simple or creative as you want. This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with various accompaniments to enhance your meal experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Basil: Chopped basil brings an aromatic touch that complements the flavors.

Pair with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a refreshing contrast.
• Garden Salad: Mixed greens topped with your favorite veggies create a light side that balances the richness of the pasta.

Add a Bread Option

• Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slathered in garlic butter is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls can be served warm, making them ideal for sopping up every last bite.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

Perfecting Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta is easy with a few simple tips. These will ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a stronger flavor compared to pre-minced options.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Cooking until al dente ensures the pasta remains firm and holds its shape.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Start with less salt and pepper, then adjust according to your preference for balanced flavors.
• Choose quality cheese: High-quality cheddar and Parmesan will melt better and enhance the dish’s richness.
• Let it rest briefly before serving: Allowing the pasta to sit for a couple of minutes helps the sauce thicken slightly.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

To complement your Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta, consider adding one or more side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted in olive oil bring additional flavor and nutrients.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and crunch, making it a healthy choice.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a crisp texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa make for an eye-catching side dish.
5. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds sweetness and balances the savory flavors of the main dish.
6. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and pair well with beef dishes.
7. Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter option, spiralized zucchini can be served alongside the pasta for extra veggies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, and there are a few common mistakes that can affect your Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Overcooking the Pasta – Cooking bowtie pasta too long can make it mushy. Always follow package instructions and taste for doneness.
• Not Seasoning the Beef – Skipping seasonings can lead to bland flavor. Be sure to season your ground beef well with salt, pepper, and spices.
• Using Cold Ingredients – Adding cold ingredients like butter or cheese can shock the mixture. Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before use.
• Skipping the Simmer Step – Failing to simmer the beef broth can prevent proper thickening. Allow it to cook for 3-4 minutes for the best consistency.
• Not Garnishing – Forgetting fresh parsley or cheese on top can diminish presentation. Always finish with a sprinkle for added flavor and appeal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

• Use a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

• Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, reheating for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each interval until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta that might help clarify your cooking process.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! You can substitute bowtie pasta with any shape you prefer, like penne or fusilli.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Consider using lean ground turkey instead of beef and adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.

What if I don’t have beef broth?

You can replace beef broth with chicken broth or vegetable broth for a different flavor profile.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can cook everything in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or trying different proteins. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a go-to meal for busy weeknights!