Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
A comforting weeknight dinner doesn’t get much better than Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter. This dish offers a delightful combination of seasoned ground beef, tender bowtie pasta, and a rich garlic butter sauce that is sure to please everyone at the table. Perfect for family meals or casual gatherings, this recipe shines with its gooey melted cheese and aromatic flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The garlic butter sauce elevates the taste, making every bite delicious and satisfying.
- Cheesy Goodness: The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan creates a wonderfully creamy texture that pulls people back for seconds.
- Versatile Meal: Easily customize with your favorite vegetables or spices for a unique twist.
- Kid-Friendly: The fun shape of bowtie pasta and cheesy flavor appeal to kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
To make Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for cooking the pasta evenly while providing ample space for boiling.
- Large skillet: Perfect for browning the beef and creating the garlic butter sauce without crowding.
- Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth consistency in the sauce by preventing lumps when combining flour and milk.
Ingredients
A savory and satisfying dish that 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.
For the Pasta
- 12 oz (340g) bowtie pasta (farfalle)
For the Beef Mixture
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 additional cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (240ml) milk (whole or 2%)
For the Cheese Topping
- 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.
Step 3: Add Onion and Garlic
Add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Remove the beef mixture from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 5: Create a Roux
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
Step 6: Thicken Sauce
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook until it begins to thicken, about 3 minutes.
Step 7: Combine Everything
Reduce heat to low. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until melted. Add cooked pasta and beef mixture into the skillet, tossing everything together. If too thick, add reserved pasta water as needed.
Step 8: Serve
Transfer your cheesy beef and bowtie pasta into serving bowls. Garnish with chopped parsley plus extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Enjoy your meal!
How to Serve Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
Serving Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is all about enhancing the dish’s flavors and presentation. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds freshness and a pop of color.
- Basil: Fresh basil leaves can enhance the Italian flavors in the dish.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm garlic bread for a delightful contrast to the creamy pasta.
- French Baguette: This classic choice is perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic butter sauce.
Add a Side Salad
- Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing complement the rich pasta beautifully.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing side that balances richness.
Offer Extra Cheese
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan over the top for an extra cheesy touch.
- Cheddar Cheese: For a different flavor profile, try adding some shredded cheddar just before serving.
How to Perfect Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
To ensure that your Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- seasoning: Don’t be shy with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to bring out the flavors.
- Cook pasta al dente: This keeps the pasta firm enough to hold up against the creamy sauce.
- Use freshly grated cheese: It melts better than pre-shredded cheese, resulting in a creamier sauce.
- Adjust sauce thickness: If your sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach the desired consistency.
- Mix well: Ensure that all components are thoroughly combined for even flavor distribution.
- Let it rest briefly: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving helps it set up nicely.
Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
Complementing your main dish with side dishes can enhance the overall meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Steamed Broccoli: A light and healthy choice that adds color and nutrients.
- Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal veggies with olive oil and roast until tender for a flavorful side.
- Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with vinaigrette can cleanse the palate after rich pasta.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes pair well with beef dishes for added comfort.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus spears add a sophisticated touch to your meal.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to cheesy pasta.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking can be tricky, and making Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is no exception. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of.
- Ignoring the Pasta Cooking Instructions: Always cook your bowtie pasta until al dente. Overcooking can result in mushy pasta that won’t hold its shape in the dish.
- Underseasoning the Beef: Skipping on salt and pepper can lead to bland flavors. Be sure to taste as you go and season generously for a delicious outcome.
- Not Saving Pasta Water: This water is essential for adjusting the sauce’s consistency. Reserve at least half a cup before draining your pasta for best results.
- Adding Cheese Too Early: To achieve that gooey texture, add cheese only after the sauce has thickened. This ensures it melts perfectly into the garlic butter sauce.
- Skipping the Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley adds a burst of flavor and color to your dish. Don’t skip this step; it enhances both presentation and taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter will keep for up to 3 days.
Freezing Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
- Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! You can substitute bowtie pasta with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture during cooking for an extra kick.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture and sauce ahead of time. Just combine with cooked pasta when ready to serve.
What should I serve with Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter?
This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is not just comforting; it’s also versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying yet easy to prepare. Give it a try!
Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter, a dish that’s sure to delight your family on busy weeknights. This easy-to-make recipe features seasoned ground beef mingled with tender bowtie pasta, all enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce. Topped with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, it’s a satisfying meal that promises warmth and flavor in every bite. Perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners, this dish is customizable to suit your taste with added vegetables or spices.
Ingredients
- 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the bowtie pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, reserving some cooking water.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil, brown the ground beef, then add onion and garlic until soft.
- Make the garlic butter sauce by melting butter and sautéing minced garlic; whisk in flour and milk until thickened.
- Stir in cheeses until melted, combine with cooked pasta and beef mixture.
- Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed; serve garnished with parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
