This Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter combines tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich garlic butter sauce in one irresistible skillet dish. It’s a family-friendly dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Cheesy garlic sauce and beef appeal to all ages.
• Versatile: Customize with different proteins, vegetables, or pasta shapes.
• Minimal Cleanup: One-skillet cooking reduces dishwashing.
• Comfort Food: Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor.

Ingredients

• Bowtie Pasta – Catches the sauce well; substitute with any pasta.
• Ground Beef – Provides hearty protein and flavor.
• Olive Oil – Used for sautéing.
• Onion – Adds sweetness and depth.
• Garlic – Essential for flavor.
• Italian Seasoning – Provides Mediterranean flair.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Optional heat.
• Butter – Base for the garlic sauce.
• Flour – Thickens the sauce.
• Milk – Creates a creamy consistency.
• Mozzarella Cheese – For a melty texture.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds a nutty, savory note.
• Parsley – Fresh garnish.

Variations

• Protein Swap: Try ground turkey, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken.
• Vegetarian Option: Use mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers instead of meat.
• Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or cayenne.
• Pesto Twist: Stir in 2 tablespoons of basil pesto.
• Mediterranean Style: Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese.
• Creamy Tomato: Stir in 1/2 cup of marinara sauce.

Instructions

1. Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve some pasta water.
2. Brown the beef in olive oil, breaking it apart as it cooks.
3. Add aromatics – sauté onions and garlic until soft.
4. Season with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
5. Make the garlic butter sauce – melt butter, sauté garlic, then whisk in flour.
6. Create the creamy base – slowly add milk while whisking until thickened.
7. Melt in cheeses until smooth and velvety.
8. Combine everything – add pasta and beef back to the skillet, tossing to coat.
9. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
10. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan.

Tips for Success

• Cook pasta al dente to prevent overcooking.
• Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning beef.
• Use room temperature dairy to prevent curdling.
• Grate your own cheese for a smoother sauce.
• Taste before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic bread – Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
• Green salad – Balances the dish with freshness.
• Roasted vegetables – Adds nutrition and variety.
• Red wine – Pairs well for an elegant touch.

Make-Ahead and Storage

• Prep Components Ahead:
  • Cook beef mixture and refrigerate up to 2 days.
  • Cook pasta a day ahead and toss with olive oil before storing.
  • Make the sauce fresh before serving.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.
• Reheating:
  • Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
  • Stovetop: Reheat on medium-low with a splash of milk.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta? Yes! Penne, rotini, or shells work well.

How can I make this lighter? Use lean beef, half-and-half instead of milk, and reduce cheese.

Can I make this gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta and substitute flour with a gluten-free alternative.

What if my sauce is too thick or thin?

• Too thick: Add pasta water or milk.
• Too thin: Simmer longer or mix cornstarch with water to thicken.

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