Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
A savory and satisfying dish, Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter 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 or a cozy gathering with friends. Its blend of flavors and ease of preparation makes it suitable for various occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This dish takes only 35 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Combination: The mix of garlic butter, beef, and cheese creates a rich taste that everyone will love.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the cheesy goodness, making it a hit at the dinner table.
- One-Pot Meal: Fewer dishes to wash means more time to relax after dinner!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the pasta evenly and ensuring it cooks properly.
- Skillet: Perfect for browning the beef and making the garlic butter sauce in one pan.
- Whisk: Helps to create a smooth sauce without lumps when combining flour and milk.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) bowtie pasta (farfalle)
– 1 lb (450g) ground beef
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 additional cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (240ml) milk (whole or 2%)
– 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.
Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic.
Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.
Add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), 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 minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Whisk in flour; cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
Gradually add milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer; cook until it begins to thicken, about 3 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Reduce heat to low; stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
Add cooked pasta and beef mixture to the skillet. Toss everything evenly in the sauce.
If sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer the cheesy beef and bowtie pasta to serving bowls. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Enjoy your deliciously comforting dish!
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. With a few creative touches, you can make this dish even more enjoyable for your family or guests.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
- Basil: Add some fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the garlic butter.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
- French Baguette: A sliced baguette is perfect for dipping into the rich sauce.
Add a Side Salad
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad balances the richness of the pasta with its crisp romaine and tangy dressing.
- Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness.
Serve in Individual Bowls
- Personalized Servings: Present each serving in a unique bowl, topped with extra cheese and herbs for a special touch.
How to Perfect Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
To achieve the best results with your Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter, consider these tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance flavor significantly compared to dried versions.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking the bowtie pasta; aim for al dente to maintain texture.
- Adjust Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or provolone for varied flavors.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings throughout cooking to ensure balanced flavors that suit your palate.
Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
Pairing sides with your Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted seasonal veggies tossed in olive oil and garlic complement the dish nicely.
- Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds nutrition and a vibrant color contrast to your plate.
- Caprese Salad: This refreshing salad of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil adds brightness to your meal.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a nice crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms make for an elegant appetizer that pairs well with pasta.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is a fun and easy side that kids love.
By following these suggestions, you can create an inviting dining experience around your delicious cheesy beef and bowtie pasta!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter experience. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
-
Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking bowtie pasta longer than the recommended time makes it mushy. Always check for al dente texture before draining.
-
Not Seasoning the Beef: Failing to season the ground beef can lead to bland flavors. Be generous with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for a tastier dish.
-
Skipping the Roux Step: Neglecting to create a roux with flour and butter will result in a watery sauce. Make sure to whisk in flour to thicken your garlic butter sauce properly.
-
Using Low-Quality Cheese: Cheap cheese may not melt well or provide the desired creamy texture. Opt for high-quality mozzarella and Parmesan for the best results.
-
Ignoring Reserved Pasta Water: Forgetting to reserve pasta water can make your sauce too thick. Use it to achieve the perfect consistency when combining everything.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Best consumed within 2 months for optimal flavor.
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 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer a single serving into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Add pasta to a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, adding a splash of milk if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter that may help you:
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! While bowtie pasta is delightful, feel free to substitute with penne or fusilli based on your preference.
How do I add more vegetables?
You can incorporate vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini during the beef-cooking stage for added nutrients and flavor.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well, making it great for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.
What sides pair well with Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter?
Consider serving it with garlic bread or a fresh green salad to balance out the richness of the dish.
Final Thoughts
The Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is a cozy meal that combines comforting flavors and textures. It’s versatile enough for customization; try adding your favorite veggies or swapping cheeses. Give this recipe a try for an easy weeknight dinner that everyone will love!
Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is a deliciously comforting dish that combines tender bowtie pasta with seasoned ground beef, all enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce. Topped with gooey melted cheese, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. In just 35 minutes, you can create a satisfying dinner that pleases both kids and adults alike. The versatility of this recipe allows for endless variations—add your favorite vegetables or spices to customize it to your taste!
Ingredients
- 12 oz bowtie pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook bowtie pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in onion and garlic; cook until softened.
- Remove beef mixture from the skillet. In the same pan, melt butter and sauté remaining garlic for 1 minute. Whisk in flour to form a roux.
- Gradually add milk while whisking to avoid lumps; simmer until thickened.
- Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted. Add cooked pasta and beef; toss well, using reserved pasta water if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
