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Cheesy Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Beef – A Family Favorite

Rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, this Cheesy Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Beef is the ultimate comfort food. With tender bowtie pasta, seasoned beef, and a luscious garlic butter sauce, it’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy evenings in.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

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
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 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)

Method
 

Cook the Bowtie Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente (firm but cooked through). Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.
2. Sauté the Beef Mixture
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart as it browns.
  3. Stir in the chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 3 minutes, until the onion is soft and fragrant.
  4. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Remove the beef mixture from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
  1. Using the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Whisk in the flour to form a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  3. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking to create a smooth mixture. Let it simmer until thickened, about 3 minutes.
4. Combine Pasta, Beef, and Sauce
  1. Reduce heat to low and stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth.
  2. Add the cooked bowtie pasta and beef mixture to the sauce. Toss until the pasta is well coated.
  3. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
5. Serve and Garnish
  1. Spoon the pasta into serving bowls.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • Pasta Options: Substitute bowtie pasta with penne, rigatoni, or any other short pasta.
  • Lighter Version: Use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese for a lighter dish.
  • Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
  • Customizations: Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for a nutrient boost.

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