Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is a delightful dish that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. This savory recipe combines tender bowtie pasta with seasoned ground beef, all enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce. Topped with gooey melted cheese, it’s the perfect meal for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or any occasion where comfort food is needed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic butter and cheeses creates a creamy, flavorful sauce that enhances every bite.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting meal packed with familiar flavors.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by adding vegetables or using different types of cheese.
- Leftover Friendly: Enjoy the leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day; they taste just as good!
Tools and Preparation
To prepare Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter, you’ll need some essential tools to make the process smooth.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Crucial for boiling the pasta evenly, ensuring it reaches the perfect al dente texture.
- Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly when making the garlic butter sauce, preventing lumps.
- Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the beef and combining all components without overcrowding.
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 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 over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add ground beef and cook while breaking it apart until browned for about 5-7 minutes.
– Add chopped onion and minced garlic.
– Cook until onion is soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.
– Stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using).
– Season with salt and pepper. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet over medium heat:
– Melt unsalted butter.
– Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant for about 1 minute.
– Whisk in flour; cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
– Gradually add milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
– Bring mixture to a gentle simmer; cook until thickened for 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 skillet. Toss gently to coat everything evenly in sauce.
– If sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer cheesy beef and bowtie pasta into serving bowls. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter!
How to Serve Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
Serving Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with thoughtful accompaniments. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish that will impress your family and friends.
Add a Fresh Salad
- Garden Salad: Toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing crunch.
- Caesar Salad: Classic romaine lettuce with creamy Caesar dressing, croutons, and parmesan cheese pairs well with the richness of the pasta.
Pair with Bread
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic breadsticks or slices will complement the garlic butter sauce beautifully.
- Cheesy Bread Rolls: Soft rolls stuffed with gooey cheese add an extra layer of indulgence.
Offer Extra Toppings
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of fresh parmesan on top enhances flavor and presentation.
- Fresh Herbs: Chopped basil or parsley adds color and freshness to each serving.
Serve with Wine
- Red Wine: A glass of robust red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon balances the richness of the dish.
- White Wine: For a lighter option, try a chilled Chardonnay that pairs nicely with the garlic butter sauce.
How to Perfect Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
To make your Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Flavoring: Use freshly minced garlic for a stronger flavor in your garlic butter sauce.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for unique tastes.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure you cook the bowtie pasta just right so it holds its shape and texture when mixed with the sauce.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs instead of dried ones for a vibrant taste.
- Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier sauce, add more milk gradually until desired consistency is reached.
- Season Thoughtfully: Taste as you cook; adjusting seasoning enhances the overall flavor profile.
Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
Complementing your Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options:
- Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies tossed in olive oil and roasted until golden; they add nice texture.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli brings color to your plate while adding nutrients without overpowering flavors.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a tangy contrast to the creamy pasta dish.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze offers a refreshing bite.
- Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa provide healthy fiber and flavor diversity.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky mashed potatoes can soak up any extra garlic butter sauce from the pasta.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the bowtie pasta too long can make it mushy. Always follow package instructions and taste for al dente texture.
- Not seasoning the beef: Skipping salt and pepper when cooking the beef can lead to bland flavors. Season generously while cooking for a tasty result.
- Using cold ingredients: Adding cold milk or cheese to the warm garlic butter sauce can cause clumping. Allow these ingredients to come to room temperature before adding.
- Skipping the roux: Forgetting to whisk in flour when making the sauce can result in a watery consistency. Take time to cook the roux until bubbly for a creamy sauce.
- Not saving pasta water: Discarding all of the pasta cooking water means you might miss out on adjusting the sauce’s thickness. Always reserve some in case you need it later.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
- Place in a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about 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, like penne or fusilli.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or even a dash of hot sauce for spice.
How do I make this dish lighter?
To lighten it up, use lean ground turkey instead of beef and reduce cheese quantities.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can cook everything ahead, store it, and then reheat when you’re ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is a delightful dish that offers comfort and flavor. It’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients or adjust based on dietary needs. We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own!
Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is the ultimate comfort food, combining the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef and tender bowtie pasta enveloped in a creamy garlic butter sauce. Finished with gooey melted cheese, this dish is perfect for busy weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups cheese (mozzarella and Parmesan)
- 1 small onion
- 4 cloves garlic
- Milk
- Olive oil
- Italian seasoning
- Flour
- Red pepper flakes
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Cook bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente; reserve some cooking water.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown ground beef for 5-7 minutes; add chopped onion and minced garlic until soft.
- Stir in Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper; set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter; sauté remaining garlic until fragrant. Whisk in flour, then gradually add milk while stirring until thickened.
- Mix in cheeses until melted; combine with cooked pasta and beef mixture. Adjust thickness with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Serve hot garnished with parsley and extra cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (250g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
