Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

A savory delight, Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is the perfect dish for a cozy weeknight dinner. This recipe combines tender bowtie pasta with seasoned ground beef and a rich garlic butter sauce, topped off with gooey melted cheese. Whether you’re hosting friends or cooking for family, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Comfort: The rich garlic butter sauce pairs perfectly with the cheesy beef, creating a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the recipe with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the cheesy goodness of this hearty pasta dish.
• Leftover Friendly: It stores well in the fridge, so you can enjoy delicious leftovers the next day.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth.

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 bowtie pasta to perfection.
• Skillet: Ideal for cooking the beef mixture and making the garlic butter sauce.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.

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 Topping

• 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.

Step 3: Add Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Remove the beef mixture from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: 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.

Step 5: Create Roux

Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.

Step 6: Thicken Sauce

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook until it begins to thicken, about 3 minutes.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Reduce heat to low and stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Add cooked pasta and beef mixture to skillet, tossing everything evenly in sauce. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 8: Serve

Transfer cheesy beef and bowtie pasta to serving bowls. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy this delicious Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter as part of your next meal!

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. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance this comforting dish.

Family-Style Serving

• Serve the cheesy beef and bowtie pasta in a large bowl for a communal dining experience. This encourages sharing and makes it more inviting for family dinners.

Individual Bowls

• Present the dish in individual bowls for a more personalized touch. Top each serving with extra cheese and parsley for an appealing look.

Side of Garlic Bread

• Pair with warm garlic bread to complement the flavors of the garlic butter sauce. This adds a crunchy texture that balances the creamy pasta.

Fresh Salad

• A simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta dish.

Wine Pairing

• Consider serving with a glass of red wine, such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine’s acidity can cut through the richness of the cheesy sauce.

Kid-Friendly Presentation

• For kids, serve in fun-shaped bowls or add some colorful veggies on the side. This makes mealtime exciting and encourages them to eat their greens.

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How to Perfect Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

To ensure your Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Al Dente Pasta: Cooking the pasta until al dente helps prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
• Brown the Beef Well: Browning enhances flavor. Make sure to cook until fully browned before adding onions and garlic.
• Adjust Thickness: If your sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until you achieve your desired consistency.
• Grate Your Own Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-packaged shredded cheese, giving you a smoother sauce.
• Customize Seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs for extra flavor. Experimentation is key!
• Let it Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

Pairing side dishes with your Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: A must-have! Toasted bread slathered with garlic butter complements the pasta perfectly.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing offers a refreshing crunch alongside creamy pasta.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition while balancing out the richness of the beef and cheese.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables can bring warmth and depth, enhancing your meal’s overall flavor profile.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw contrasts nicely with creamy dishes, providing a crisp texture that refreshes the palate.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can cleanse your palate after this savory main dish.
7. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs offer an additional comfort food element that pairs well with pasta.
8. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful pop of sweetness, perfect for summer meals or family gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter can be easy, but there are pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking bowtie pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions for al dente texture.
• Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting to season the beef and garlic butter sauce can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Not Using Enough Cheese: Insufficient cheese will reduce creaminess. Don’t skimp on mozzarella and Parmesan for that gooey finish.
• Ignoring Pasta Water: Forgetting to reserve pasta water may result in a dry dish. Use it to adjust the sauce consistency when needed.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold milk or cheese can cause the sauce to seize up. Let ingredients come to room temperature for better results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter lasts up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Store in freezer-safe containers or bags; it can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover lightly with a lid or plastic wrap, then heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water, stirring until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter, check these common queries.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! While bowtie pasta is ideal, feel free to substitute with penne or fusilli according to your preference.

What type of ground beef is best?

For this recipe, lean ground beef works well. It prevents excess grease while still providing great flavor.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or cooked lentils for a delicious vegetarian version.

How do I enhance flavors?

Adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano can elevate the taste of Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter, making it even more delightful.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is not only comforting but also versatile, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner. You can customize it by adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach before mixing everything together. Give this recipe a try—it’s bound to become a family favorite!