Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter: A Comforting and Flavor-Packed Meal

If you’re looking for a dish that combines rich flavors, creamy cheese, and hearty beef, then this Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is the perfect recipe for you. This dish is a wonderful blend of tender pasta, juicy ground beef, and a creamy garlic butter sauce, all topped with melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s a meal that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor—ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re simply craving a bowl of cheesy goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Everything you need for this dish is likely already in your kitchen.
• Rich and Creamy Sauce: The garlic butter sauce takes this pasta to the next level.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults!
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes for a satisfying dinner.
• Customizable: You can switch up the protein, add veggies, or make it spicier to suit your taste.

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Beef:

• 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
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 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%)
• 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain and set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking for another 3 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
4. Stir in Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Remove the beef mixture from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Whisk in 1 tablespoon of flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes to form a light roux.
4. Slowly pour in 1 cup of milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until the sauce thickens slightly (about 3 minutes).

Step 4: Bring It All Together

1. Lower the heat and stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth.
2. Add the cooked pasta and beef mixture back to the skillet, tossing everything together so the pasta is well coated in the sauce.
3. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Transfer to serving bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
2. Add extra Parmesan cheese on top if desired.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy the cheesy, garlicky goodness!

Recipe Notes and Tips

• Make it Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Add More Veggies: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Use a Different Protein: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage.
• Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave with a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy.

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