Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta Recipe

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Start Here: Cozy Cravings with Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta Recipe

When I first whipped up this Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta Recipe, it quickly became a favorite in my weekly dinner rotation. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you up in comfort with every bite — the rich garlic butter mingles with hearty ground beef, while the bowtie pasta adds a fun, satisfying chew. I love pulling this together on busy weeknights when you want something that feels special but doesn’t keep you in the kitchen all evening.

You’ll enjoy how simple ingredients come together into a creamy, cheesy masterpiece. The sizzling garlic butter sauce fills your kitchen with such a warm aroma, and the melt-in-your-mouth cheddar makes each bite a delight. Honestly, once you try this, you’ll be reaching for it whenever your craving for comfort food strikes!

Prep Like a Pro

Before you dive into cooking, I highly recommend organizing your space—this mise en place approach makes the whole Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta Recipe flow so smoothly. Having everything measured and ready keeps you from scrambling and lets you actually enjoy cooking.

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander to drain pasta
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Sharp knife and cutting board for the garlic

Gather Your Ingredients

Measuring your ingredients carefully really helps keep this Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta Recipe balanced and tasty every time. Here’s what you’ll need—each with a little note to help you get it just right:

• Bowtie pasta – adds a fun, chewy texture
• Ground beef – your hearty protein base
• Butter – for that rich, silky sauce
• Garlic cloves, minced – bursts of aromatic flavor
• Onion powder – a subtle savory background note
• Italian seasoning – herbaceous and fragrant blend
• Salt and pepper – essential seasonings for balance
• Beef broth – adds depth and helps create our sauce
• Shredded cheddar cheese – gooey, melty cheesy goodness
• Grated Parmesan cheese – sharp, nutty finish
• Fresh parsley – a bright, fresh garnish

If you want to mix things up, you can swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter option, or use vegetable broth for a bit less richness. Cheddar cheese works best, but feel free to use a mix of mozzarella and gouda for a creamier twist.

Step-by-Step to Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta Recipe Bliss

Ready to whip up this crowd-pleaser? Follow these clear steps and you’ll nail the creamy, garlicky goodness every time.

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a roaring boil. Drop in your bowtie pasta and cook until it’s perfectly al dente — usually a minute or two less than the package says to keep that slight chew. Drain and set aside while you build the sauce.
2. Cook the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and crumble in the ground beef. Let it sizzle and brown well, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. Once cooked through, carefully drain off the excess grease. Then season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning to infuse flavor.
3. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: Turn the heat down low and toss in the butter to melt in the skillet with the beef. When it’s luscious and bubbling, stir in the minced garlic. You’ll know it’s ready when the kitchen fills with that irresistible garlicky scent — about one minute.
4. Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the beef broth and give everything a good stir. Let the mix simmer gently for 3-4 minutes so it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together beautifully.
5. Combine Pasta and Cheese: Add your cooked bowtie pasta right into the skillet. Toss and stir to coat every piece in that garlicky buttery goodness. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, stirring until the cheese melts fully and the sauce is creamy and dreamy.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle on the grated Parmesan and fresh parsley. Give it one last gentle toss if you like, then dish it out immediately to enjoy that perfect gooey warmth and fresh herb kick.

Serve & Savor

This Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta Recipe shines when served hot and fresh. Picture plating it with a sprinkle of parsley over the top, letting the cheese strings pull apart with each forkful. It’s a dish that invites you to lean in and savor each bite’s rich, buttery, and savory layers. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.

Creative Variations with Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta Recipe

• Add roasted bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a colorful boost.
• Swap ground beef for Italian sausage to deepen flavor.
• Use gluten-free bowtie pasta to keep it allergy-friendly.
• Incorporate fresh spinach or kale at the end for a veggie punch.
• Add a spoonful of cream cheese for extra creaminess.
• Top with crispy bacon bits for a smoky crunch surprise.

Make-Ahead, Store & Reheat

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of beef broth or water to keep it creamy.
• You can freeze portions for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• If making ahead, keep pasta and sauce separate until warming for best texture.

Your Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta Recipe Questions Answered

• Can I use other pasta shapes? Absolutely! Penne, rotini, or shells all work well.
• What if I’m out of beef broth? Chicken broth or even water with a dash of Worcestershire sauce can substitute.
• Can I make this vegetarian? Try swapping beef for sautéed mushrooms or lentils for a meatless version.
• How do I prevent the pasta from sticking? Cook it al dente, rinse briefly if needed, and toss with a tiny drizzle of oil before mixing in the sauce.
• Is it okay to add the cheese directly to the heat? Yes, just stir quickly off the heat to avoid curdling and ensure a smooth sauce.

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