Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter Blissful Treat

Name: Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter Blissful Treat
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz bowtie pasta; 1 lb ground beef; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup beef broth; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup butter; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

By:

Christina R. Jones

October 30, 2025

cheesy beef and bowtie pasta in garlic butter

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about cheesy beef and bowtie pasta in garlic butter! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate. Seriously, there’s something so comforting about those tender bowtie pasta pieces enveloped in rich, garlicky goodness, combined with savory ground beef and gooey cheddar cheese. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. I remember the first time I made it for my kids; their eyes lit up as they took their first bites, and the smiles said it all! It quickly became a staple in our household. Not only is it hearty and filling, but it also brings back the best memories of laughter around the dinner table. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a favorite in your home too!

cheesy beef and bowtie pasta in garlic butter - detail 1

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this delicious cheesy beef and bowtie pasta in garlic butter:

8 oz bowtie pasta
1 lb ground beef
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup beef broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to gather your ingredients beforehand so you can enjoy the cooking process without any interruptions. Each one plays a crucial role in creating that mouthwatering flavor and creamy texture. Now, let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making your cheesy beef and bowtie pasta in garlic butter! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. It’s a straightforward process, perfect for both newbie cooks and seasoned chefs. Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

First things first, let’s get that bowtie pasta cooking! Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil—trust me, that salt makes a difference. Once the water is bubbling, toss in your 8 ounces of bowtie pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes until it’s al dente. You want it to have a bit of bite since it’ll continue cooking in the skillet later. When it’s ready, drain the pasta and set it aside, but don’t rinse it! That starchy coating helps the sauce stick later.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Now, let’s get that mouthwatering garlic aroma filling your kitchen! In a large skillet, melt your 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted and bubbly, add in those 3 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté it for about a minute, just until it starts to get fragrant. Be careful here—garlic can burn quickly and turn bitter, so keep an eye on it! Once it’s golden and you can smell that deliciousness, it’s time to move on.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Next up, we’re adding the star of the show: the ground beef! Increase the heat slightly and add in 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste; I usually go for a good pinch of each. Cook the beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked—this should take about 5-7 minutes. And oh boy, the smell of that beef cooking with the garlic is just heavenly!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Once your beef is cooked through, pour in 1/2 cup of beef broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. This will add some depth to the flavor and help deglaze the pan—so you get all those tasty bits mixed in! After a minute or two, add your cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet. Stir everything together until the pasta is well coated with that savory beef mixture. You’ll see it all come together beautifully!

Step 5: Add Cheese

Now for the best part—cheese time! Sprinkle in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it melts into that luscious, creamy sauce. Oh, this is where it gets really good! You want that cheese to be evenly distributed, giving every bite that gooey, cheesy goodness. If it seems a little thick, just add a splash more beef broth to reach your desired creamy consistency.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finally, it’s time to plate up! Grab some fresh parsley and chop it up for garnish. Sprinkle it over the top of your cheesy beef and bowtie pasta for that pop of color and freshness. Serve it hot right from the skillet, and watch your family dive in with delight! This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but I promise you, it’ll be hard to resist going back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic butter, savory beef, and melty cheddar cheese creates a rich, mouthwatering flavor that your taste buds will adore!
Comfort Food at Its Best: This hearty dish brings back the cozy vibes of home-cooked meals, making it a go-to for family gatherings or a comforting dinner after a long day.
Kid-Friendly: Kids love the fun shape of bowtie pasta and the cheesy goodness, making it an easy way to get them excited about dinner.
Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies or swap out the cheese for something different. It’s versatile and can easily adapt to what you have on hand!

Tips for Success

To help you make the best cheesy beef and bowtie pasta in garlic butter, here are some pro tips that I swear by. Trust me, these little tweaks can elevate your dish to a whole new level!

Experiment with Cheese: While my go-to is always sharp cheddar for that rich flavor, feel free to mix it up! Try using Monterey Jack for a creamier texture or even a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and gouda for an extra cheesy experience. Just keep in mind that different cheeses melt differently, so adjust your expectations!
Adjust the Garlic: If you love garlic like I do, go ahead and add an extra clove or two! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can always sauté the garlic for a shorter time or add it later in the cooking process. Just remember, fresh garlic has a stronger punch compared to dried or powdered versions.
Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Salt and pepper are your best friends here! Taste as you go and don’t be afraid to sprinkle in a bit more seasoning. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or some Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
Make It a Meal: This dish is super versatile, so feel free to toss in some veggies! Spinach, bell peppers, or even peas can add color and nutrition. Just make sure to sauté them briefly before adding the beef to keep everything perfectly cooked!
Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, so try to serve it right after cooking. If you must make it ahead, reheat gently on the stove with a splash of beef broth to bring back that creamy texture.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re bound to impress everyone at your dinner table. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information Section

Before you dig into your delicious cheesy beef and bowtie pasta in garlic butter, let’s talk about the nutritional side of things! Keep in mind that the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and their brands, so this is just an estimate. Here’s what you can expect per serving:

Calories: 500
Fat: 25g
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 800mg
Fiber: 2g
Cholesterol: 80mg

These numbers can change if you decide to swap out ingredients or add extras like veggies or different types of cheese. Just remember, it’s all about balance! Enjoy this hearty dish as part of a well-rounded diet, and savor every cheesy bite!

Frequently Asked Questions

Got some questions about cheesy beef and bowtie pasta in garlic butter? No worries! Here are some common queries I’ve come across, along with my tips to help you out:

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is fun and holds the sauce beautifully, you can easily swap it for other types like penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary slightly.

Q2: What can I do if I don’t have beef broth?
If you find yourself without beef broth, you can use chicken broth or even vegetable broth as a substitute. It’ll still add moisture and flavor, so don’t stress if you’re out of beef broth!

Q3: How can I make this dish spicier?
If you’re looking to kick up the heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while browning the beef. You can also add a dash of hot sauce or even some diced jalapeños for an extra spicy twist. Just be sure to taste as you go!

Q4: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time! Cook the pasta and brown the beef earlier in the day, then combine everything right before serving. Just remember to reheat gently with a splash of broth to keep it creamy!

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat on the stovetop with a little beef broth to bring back that creamy goodness. You’ll want to enjoy it just like fresh!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, let’s talk about how to store those delicious leftovers of your cheesy beef and bowtie pasta in garlic butter! First off, you’ll want to let the dish cool down to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation in the container, which can make your pasta soggy. Once cooled, transfer any leftover pasta into an airtight container. It should keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to label it with the date so you know when you made it!

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is key to keeping that creamy texture and comforting flavor intact. I recommend reheating on the stovetop rather than in the microwave for the best results. Just add a splash of beef broth or a little bit of water to the skillet, then toss in the pasta. Stir it gently over medium heat until warmed through. This method helps revive the sauce and prevents it from drying out.

If you must use the microwave, transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of broth, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or wrap (to keep moisture in), and heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even reheating. Keep an eye on it, as you don’t want to overcook the pasta!

With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your cheesy beef and bowtie pasta just like it was freshly made! Trust me, it’s too good to let it go to waste.