This Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this dish stands out as a family favorite. It’s easy to prepare and packs a delightful punch of garlic butter goodness, making it suitable for various occasions, from casual meals to more festive gatherings.

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 Beef
- For the Garlic Butter 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
- Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Add Some Bread
- Include Extra Protein
- Garnish Creatively
- 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 use other types of pasta?
- How do I make it healthier?
- What should I serve with this dish?
- Can I prepare this ahead of time?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy nights.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic butter, ground beef, and cheese creates an irresistible taste that your family will love.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe by adding vegetables or swapping out proteins for a tailored meal.
- One-Pan Wonder: Most of the cooking happens in a single skillet, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor.
- Comforting Meal: This cheesy pasta dish is warm, filling, and perfect for those who crave comfort food.
Tools and Preparation
To make Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter, having the right tools makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Colander
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Essential for browning the beef and combining all ingredients efficiently.
- Pot for boiling pasta: A good-quality pot ensures even cooking of the bowtie pasta.
- Colander: Helps drain pasta quickly while keeping it intact.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
This rich and comforting dish combines tender bowtie pasta with savory ground beef in a creamy garlic butter sauce that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
For the Pasta
- 12 oz bowtie pasta
For the Beef
- 1 lb ground beef
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 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 it while reserving ½ cup of pasta water. Set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Make sure to drain any excess fat before moving on.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked beef. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream while stirring to combine everything well. Season with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you want some heat.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Gradually mix in both shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until fully melted and smooth.
Step 6: Combine with Pasta
Toss in your cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet. Stir well to coat all pasta evenly with that delicious sauce. Add reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
Step 7: Serve
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm to enjoy this comforting meal!
How to Serve Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter
Serving Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delightful suggestions to make this dish even more enjoyable for you and your family.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Garden Salad: A mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers drizzled with a light vinaigrette.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan adds a classic touch.
Add Some Bread
- Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter complements the rich flavors of the pasta.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls make for a perfect side to scoop up any leftover sauce.
Include Extra Protein
- Grilled Chicken: Slicing grilled chicken on top adds an extra protein boost.
- Sausage Crumbles: Mix in cooked sausage for added flavor and texture.
Garnish Creatively
- Fresh Parsley or Basil: A sprinkle of herbs brightens the dish visually and adds freshness.
- Extra Cheese: Adding more shredded cheese right before serving can enhance the cheesy goodness.
How to Perfect Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter
For the best results when making Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter, consider these helpful tips.
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and good-quality cheeses for richer flavors.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: This ensures the pasta holds its shape when mixed with the sauce.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go; feel free to add more spices to suit your palate.
- Reserve Enough Pasta Water: The reserved water helps adjust the sauce’s consistency without watering it down.
- Experiment with Vegetables: Adding spinach or bell peppers can boost nutrition and color.
- Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter
Pairing sides with your Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options that complement this rich dish perfectly.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a crunchy contrast.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a nutty flavor that balances the creaminess of the pasta.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer comfort and pair well with beef dishes.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings brightness and sweetness to your plate.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity to cut through richness.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers can serve as a nutritious side packed with flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking can be tricky, and avoiding common mistakes can make all the difference in your Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter.
- Skipping the pasta water: Not reserving pasta water can lead to a dry dish. Always save some to adjust the sauce’s consistency.
- Overcooking the beef: Cooking ground beef for too long can result in dryness. Cook until just browned for the best texture.
- Not seasoning enough: Underseasoning can make the dish bland. Be generous with salt, pepper, and spices to enhance flavor.
- Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheeses may not melt well. Opt for good quality cheeses for a creamy sauce that truly delights.
- Neglecting fresh herbs: Skipping fresh parsley can diminish freshness. Always garnish for added flavor and color.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3–4 days for best quality.
Freezing Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter
- Use freezer-safe containers to prevent freezer burn.
- Keep frozen for up to 2–3 months.
Reheating Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to maintain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! You can substitute bowtie pasta with penne, fusilli, or any pasta you prefer.
How do I make it healthier?
You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. Adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers is also great!
What should I serve with this dish?
This cheesy beef and bowtie pasta pairs nicely with a simple green salad or garlic bread on the side.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can cook the pasta and beef ahead, then combine everything before serving to save time.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is a delightful dish that combines comfort with flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your preferences, whether you want more veggies or different proteins. Give it a try and enjoy a meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table!
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📖 Recipe Card
PrintCheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta In Garlic Butter
Indulge in the comfort of Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter, a dish that promises rich flavors and creamy textures, making it a family favorite for any occasion. This quick and easy recipe takes just 30 minutes to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal even on the busiest of nights. With savory ground beef, tender bowtie pasta, and a luscious garlic butter sauce enriched with cheese, this dish is designed to please every palate. Perfect for cozy gatherings or simple weeknight dinners, it’s customizable to suit your family’s tastes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
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 pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and reserve ½ cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until cooked through; drain excess fat.
- Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet, sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine; season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Gradually mix in cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted.
- Toss in the cooked pasta, mixing well with the sauce, adjusting consistency with reserved pasta water as needed.
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 90mg