Name: Irresistible Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle); 1 lb Lean Ground Beef (85/15 or 90/10); 6 tablespoons Unsalted Butter, divided; 1 large Yellow Onion, finely diced; 8 cloves Garlic, freshly minced; 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour; 1 cup Beef Broth (low sodium); 2 cups Whole Milk; 1 cup Heavy Cream; 1 cup Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese; 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese; 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (plus extra for garnish); 2 teaspoons Dried Italian Seasoning; 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika; 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional); Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience, a symphony of flavors that promises to transform your dinner table into a haven of culinary delight. I’ve always been captivated by dishes that combine hearty ingredients with truly irresistible comfort, and this recipe truly delivers. Imagine succulent, tender beef infused with fragrant garlic and rich butter, perfectly tossed with playful bowtie pasta and generously coated in a luxurious, melted cheese sauce. This isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a dish that evokes a sense of warmth and gathering, reminiscent of cherished family meals where simple ingredients are elevated to extraordinary heights, making my kitchen smell absolutely incredible.

While the precise lineage of this exact combination might be a modern marvel, its heart beats with the spirit of classic Italian-American comfort food. It draws inspiration from traditions where robust meat sauces meet versatile pasta shapes, all culminating in a cheesy embrace. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of combining rich, savory elements with creamy textures. People absolutely adore this dish not only for its incredible taste – the umami depth from the beef, the aromatic kick of garlic, and the satisfying tang of melted cheese – but also for its delightful textures: the tender chew of the beef, the satisfying bite of the al dente bowties, and the luscious, gooey cheese pulling perfectly with every forkful. This particular Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta brings together everything you crave in a comforting, yet undeniably elegant, pasta dish, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Ingredients:

1 pound (450g) Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle): I find that bowtie pasta holds the creamy sauce and bits of beef beautifully.
1.5 pounds (680g) Lean Ground Beef (85/15 or 90/10): I prefer a slightly leaner ground beef to avoid excessive grease, but some fat is crucial for flavor.
6 tablespoons Unsalted Butter: Divided. We’ll use some for the beef and garlic, and the rest for our luscious cheesy sauce.
1 large Yellow Onion: Finely diced. This provides a foundational sweetness and aroma to our savory dish.
8 cloves Garlic: Freshly minced. Trust me, for this “Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta,” you want a generous amount of garlic.
1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour: This is our secret weapon for creating a silky-smooth, thick sauce.
2 cups Beef Broth: Low sodium is always a good choice so you can control the saltiness yourself.
2 cups Whole Milk: The richness of whole milk contributes significantly to the creamy texture of our sauce.
1 cup Heavy Cream: For an extra layer of decadence and an even more luxurious mouthfeel.
2 cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The quintessential cheese for that robust, tangy cheesy flavor.
1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: For that delightful stringy, gooey factor that everyone loves.
1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, umami depth that elevates the entire dish. Plus, a little extra for garnish!
2 teaspoons Dried Italian Seasoning: A wonderful blend of herbs that complements the beef and cheese perfectly.
1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika: For a hint of smoky warmth and a beautiful color.
1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional): If you enjoy a little kick, I highly recommend adding these.
Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: To taste, throughout the cooking process. Seasoning properly at each stage is key.
1/4 cup Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish. It adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens the whole dish.

Preparing the Components for our Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

Cooking the Bowtie Pasta to Perfection

Boil the Water: Grab your largest pot and fill it with about 4-5 quarts of water. Place it on your stove over high heat. I always make sure to use a big pot so the pasta has plenty of room to move around and cook evenly.
Season the Water: Once the water comes to a rolling boil, add a generous amount of salt – I’m talking at least 1-2 tablespoons. This isn’t just for flavor; it actually seasons the pasta from the inside out. Think of it like salting your bathwater before you get in; it makes a difference!
Add the Pasta: Carefully add the 1 pound of bowtie pasta to the boiling water. Give it a good stir to prevent it from sticking together.
Cook to Al Dente: Follow the package directions for cooking time, but aim for al dente. This typically means cooking it for 8-10 minutes. Al dente pasta should be firm to the bite, not mushy. Remember, it will finish cooking a little bit more when we toss it with our hot sauce, so don’t overcook it now.
Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining, scoop out about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. This liquid gold is incredibly useful later for thinning out the sauce if it becomes too thick, and it helps the sauce cling better to the pasta. I always keep it handy!
Drain the Pasta: Once cooked al dente, drain the pasta in a colander. Do not rinse the pasta! Rinsing removes the starches that help the sauce adhere beautifully to each piece. Set the drained pasta aside.

Browning the Garlic Butter Beef

Heat the Skillet: Place a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. I find that a good, heavy-bottomed pan works best for even browning.
Melt Butter and Sauté Onion: Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the hot skillet. Once melted and shimmering, add your finely diced yellow onion. Sauté the onion for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft, translucent, and beautifully fragrant. This step really builds a flavor foundation.
Brown the Ground Beef: Add the 1.5 pounds of lean ground beef to the skillet with the softened onions. Break up the beef with a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks. Stir frequently, allowing it to brown evenly on all sides. This browning process, known as the Maillard reaction, develops deep, savory flavors that are essential for our “Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta.”
Season the Beef: Once the beef is mostly browned, I like to season it directly. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and a good pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring to incorporate the seasonings.
Add Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: Push the beef to one side of the pan. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the empty side of the pan. Once melted, add your generous 8 cloves of freshly minced garlic and the optional 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring constantly, until it’s incredibly fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
Combine and Drain Fat: Stir the fragrant garlic and red pepper flakes into the browned beef and onions. Cook for another minute to allow the flavors to meld. If there’s a significant amount of excess grease in the pan (which there shouldn’t be much with lean beef, but it’s good to check), carefully drain it off. I usually tilt the pan and use a spoon to scoop out any standing fat. This ensures our sauce won’t be overly greasy. Set the beef mixture aside.

Crafting the Cheesy Garlic Butter Sauce for our Bowtie Pasta

Melt Butter for the Roux: In the same skillet (no need to clean it, those browned bits add flavor!), melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
Create the Roux: Once the butter is melted, sprinkle in the 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour. Whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes, creating a smooth paste, or roux. This is the thickening agent for our sauce. Cook it until it’s light golden and smells a bit like toasted nuts; this cooks out the raw flour taste.
Whisk in Liquids Gradually: Slowly pour in the 2 cups of beef broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. The sauce will thicken quite quickly. Once smooth, gradually whisk in the 2 cups of whole milk, followed by the 1 cup of heavy cream. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and starting to gently simmer and thicken. This gradual addition and constant whisking are critical for a lump-free, velvety sauce.
Season the Sauce: Stir in the remaining 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning and 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember, the cheese will add saltiness, so start with a moderate amount and adjust later.
Melt the Cheeses: Reduce the heat to low. Now for the best part! Add the 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir continuously until all the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth, creamy, and gloriously cheesy. This is the heart of our “Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta” – a rich, indulgent cheese sauce.
Adjust Consistency: If the sauce seems too thick, whisk in a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. I like a sauce that generously coats the back of a spoon. If it seems too thin, you can let it gently simmer for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken, or whisk in a very small slurry of cornstarch and cold water (about 1 tsp cornstarch to 2 tsp cold water) and let it simmer for another minute.
Taste and Adjust: Give the sauce a final taste test. Does it need more salt? More pepper? Perhaps a tiny pinch more Italian seasoning? Adjust as needed until it’s perfectly balanced and delicious. This is where your personal preference comes into play.

Assembling the Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

Combine Beef and Sauce: Gently stir the browned garlic butter beef and onion mixture back into the cheesy sauce. Make sure it’s well incorporated, so every bite has that savory beefy goodness. The aromas at this stage are absolutely incredible – you’ll be tempted to grab a spoon!
Add the Pasta: Now, add the drained bowtie pasta directly into the skillet with the beef and cheesy sauce.
Toss to Coat: Using tongs or a large spoon, carefully toss the pasta with the sauce and beef until every single piece of bowtie pasta is thoroughly coated in that rich, creamy, cheesy goodness. This step is crucial to ensure an even distribution of flavor throughout our “Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta.”
Final Warm Through: Allow the mixture to gently simmer on low heat for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, just to ensure everything is hot and the flavors have fully melded. If the pasta has absorbed too much sauce and it seems dry, don’t hesitate to add another splash of reserved pasta water or a little extra milk or broth to loosen it up.

Final Touches and Serving Suggestions

Garnish: Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the fresh chopped parsley over the top. The vibrant green adds a beautiful visual contrast and a burst of fresh flavor. If you like, you can also grate a little extra Parmesan cheese over the top for an added flourish and a boost of salty, nutty flavor.
Serve Immediately: This “Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta” is best served hot and fresh. The creamy sauce is at its peak when it’s warm and luscious.
Suggested Pairings: I love to serve this hearty dish with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or with some crusty garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce. A steamed green vegetable like broccoli or green beans also makes a great accompaniment.
Leftovers: If you have any glorious leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, I recommend adding a splash of milk or beef broth and gently warming it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, or in the microwave. The sauce might thicken considerably in the fridge, so that extra liquid helps restore its creaminess.
Enjoy Every Bite: Take a moment to appreciate the incredible aroma before you dig in. This comforting, savory, and incredibly cheesy “Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta” is truly a crowd-pleaser and a perfect weeknight meal or a special treat. You’ve put in the effort, now savor the reward!

Conclusion:

And there you have it, friends! We’ve journeyed together through the delightful creation of what I truly believe is destined to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s an experience, a symphony of flavors and textures designed to bring pure comfort and immense satisfaction to every single bite. I’m talking about that rich, savory ground beef, perfectly browned and infused with aromatic garlic, all nestled amongst tender bowtie pasta. Then, of course, there’s the star of the show – that gloriously creamy, unapologetically cheesy sauce, hugging every single piece of pasta and creating a truly irresistible concoction. It’s the kind of meal that silences a room as everyone savors their portion, only to erupt in contented sighs and requests for seconds. What makes this recipe an absolute must-try is its remarkable ability to feel gourmet and indulgent, yet it remains surprisingly straightforward to prepare, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and special weekend gatherings where you want to impress without the stress. It’s a dish that genuinely pleases all palates, from the pickiest eaters to the most seasoned food lovers, offering a hearty, flavorful embrace that simply feels like home.

Elevate Your Dining Experience: Serving Suggestions & Creative Variations

Now that you’ve mastered the art of creating this incredible dish, let’s talk about how to make it even more spectacular or adapt it to your preferences. For a complete and balanced meal, I highly recommend serving your Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta alongside a crisp, vibrant green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens will cut through the richness of the pasta, providing a delightful contrast. A side of warm, crusty bread or garlic bread is also an absolute winner, perfect for soaking up every last drop of that incredible cheesy sauce. Trust me, you won’t want to waste a single bit!

But the beauty of this recipe truly lies in its versatility. Don’t be afraid to make it your own! If you’re looking to sneak in some extra vegetables, consider adding a handful of fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking, allowing it to wilt beautifully into the sauce. Sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or even some frozen peas can also be fantastic additions, contributing extra color, texture, and nutrients. Feeling adventurous with your cheese? While cheddar is a classic for a reason, experimenting with different cheese blends can transform the dish. Try adding a touch of smoked Gouda for a deeper flavor, or some provolone for an extra gooey stretch. For a little kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can awaken the palate and add a subtle warmth. If you prefer poultry, ground chicken or turkey can easily substitute the beef, offering a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor. You could even incorporate fresh herbs like chopped parsley, chives, or a sprinkle of fresh thyme at the very end for an aromatic flourish. The possibilities are truly endless, allowing you to tailor this sensational pasta to your exact tastes every single time you make it.

So, what are you waiting for? This is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create something truly delicious and memorable in your own kitchen. I genuinely hope you’ll roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and give this mouth-watering dish a try. I have a strong feeling it’s going to earn a permanent spot on your weekly menu rotation. I can’t wait to hear all about your cooking adventures! Once you’ve made it, please come back and share your experiences. Did you add any unique twists? What did your family think? Your feedback and creative ideas inspire me and countless other home cooks. Happy cooking, everyone – may your kitchens be filled with delicious aromas and joyful moments!