Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

A savory dish that combines tender bowtie pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a rich garlic butter sauce is Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, this dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. It’s great for family gatherings or cozy nights in, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delightful meal in no time.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic butter and melted cheese elevates the taste, making each bite irresistible.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices.
• Comforting Dish: The creamy texture and cheesy goodness create a warm and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
• Perfect Leftovers: This dish reheats well, making it ideal for lunch the next day.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the delicious recipe, ensure you have the right tools at hand to make cooking easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Colander
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking pasta evenly and efficiently.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing ingredients and creating the garlic butter sauce.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly without lumps when making the sauce.

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 Cheese Topping

• 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese

For Garnish

• 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), and season with 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 the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook until it begins to thicken, about 3 minutes.

Step 4: 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 to coat everything evenly in sauce. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer cheesy beef and bowtie pasta to serving bowls. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!

How to Serve Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

Serving Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Parsley: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the pasta for a burst of color and flavor.
• Basil: Add fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch that pairs well with garlic.

Add a Crunchy Topping

• Breadcrumbs: Toasted breadcrumbs can provide a nice crunch when sprinkled on top before serving.
• Pine Nuts: Lightly toasted pine nuts add texture and a nutty flavor that complements the cheesy sauce.

Pair with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and complements the richness of the pasta.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad with vinaigrette offers freshness and balance to the meal.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for dipping into the delicious garlic butter sauce.
• French Baguette: A sliced French baguette is perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce.

Offer Extra Cheese

• Mozzarella Slices: Provide additional mozzarella slices for those who crave extra cheesiness.
• Parmesan Shavings: Freshly shaved Parmesan cheese can enhance the flavor profile further.

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How to Perfect Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

To create the ultimate Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter, follow these tips for best results.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality ground beef and fresh cheeses for optimal flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Ensure your bowtie pasta is cooked al dente to maintain a good texture in the dish.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go, adjusting salt, pepper, and spices to suit your preference.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic will give your dish a stronger, more aromatic flavor compared to pre-minced options.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving lets flavors meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix different types of cheeses like cheddar or gouda for added depth.

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

Complementing your main dish with suitable sides can make all the difference. Here are some great side dishes to serve alongside your cheesy beef delight.

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted with garlic enhances both nutrition and flavor.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds a healthy green element that contrasts nicely with creamy pasta.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction offer refreshing acidity.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and balance against the richness of the pasta dish.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice make an attractive side packed with flavor.
6. Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): Light zoodles may serve as a low-carb alternative that pairs well without overwhelming flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the bowtie pasta too long can make it mushy. Always follow package instructions and taste for doneness.
• Not Seasoning Properly: Forgetting to season the beef and sauce can lead to bland flavors. Use salt, pepper, and herbs generously to enhance taste.
• Skipping the Roux Step: Neglecting to cook the flour with butter can result in lumps. Always whisk well to create a smooth sauce.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Low-quality cheese may not melt well, affecting texture. Opt for fresh, high-quality cheeses for best results.
• Not Adjusting Sauce Thickness: If your sauce is too thick, you risk dry pasta. Use reserved pasta water gradually until you reach desired consistency.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• It can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Bowtie pasta (farfalle) is perfect due to its shape, which holds onto the sauce well. However, you can also use other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli if preferred.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option that works well in this dish while still providing excellent flavor.

How do I customize the flavors?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition. You can also adjust the spice level by adding more red pepper flakes.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter stores well, making it an ideal choice for meal prep throughout the week.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, substitute ground beef with plant-based meat or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of milk.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is a delightful dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. It’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or spices. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try!