When comfort food calls, nothing satisfies quite like Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter. This rich, hearty dish combines tender bowtie pasta (farfalle), savory ground beef, melty cheese, and a luscious garlic butter sauce — all tossed together in one delicious skillet.
It’s a quick and budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or picky eaters who want flavor without fuss.
🧄 Why You’ll Love This Pasta
- One-pan friendly and ready in under 30 minutes
- Kid-approved, family-approved, and budget-friendly
- Creamy, cheesy, buttery, and satisfying
- Great for meal prep or leftovers
- Easy to customize with veggies or spice
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
- 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella (or a blend)
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup heavy cream or milk (optional, for added creaminess)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: parsley, red pepper flakes, or cooked veggies (like spinach or peas)
👨🍳 How to Make Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil bowtie pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Season with salt and pepper. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter
Push the beef to one side of the pan. Add butter and minced garlic to the cleared space. Sauté garlic for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add cooked pasta, shredded cheese, parmesan, and a splash of reserved pasta water or cream. Stir to melt the cheese and coat everything in the garlicky butter. Adjust seasoning.
Step 5: Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley or extra parmesan. Serve hot and cheesy!
💡 Tips & Variations
- Add chopped spinach or peas for extra nutrients
- Use Italian sausage or ground turkey instead of beef
- Want more kick? Add crushed red pepper or hot sauce
- Make it creamy with more cream or a dollop of cream cheese
- Bake it in the oven with extra cheese for a pasta casserole twist
🥗 Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp Caesar salad or garlic bread
- Pair with steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables
- Turn leftovers into stuffed bell peppers or a cheesy pasta bake
📌 Final Thoughts
Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is the ultimate weeknight winner — comforting, flavorful, and quick to whip up. With tender pasta, melty cheese, and bold garlic butter, every bite is a cozy, satisfying experience.
Whether you’re cooking for a family or just craving something hearty, this dish is a guaranteed go-to. 🍝🧄🧀