There's something undeniably comforting about a big bowl of Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter. The combination of tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich, garlicky butter sauce is pure dinnertime bliss. Every bite is coated in melted cheese, making it a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying.

I first made this recipe on a busy weeknight when I needed something quick yet hearty. With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep, it quickly became a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a kid-approved meal or a cozy dinner after a long day, this dish has got you covered.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Get ready to add a new favorite to your dinner rotation! This Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for all occasions.

Quick & Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver on busy nights.
Budget-Friendly: With simple, affordable ingredients, you can feed the whole family without breaking the bank.
Crowd-Pleaser: The cheesy, garlicky goodness makes this a hit with both kids and adults.
Customizable: Swap the protein, add veggies, or switch up the cheese to make it your own.

Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this recipe!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a role in creating a creamy, cheesy, and garlicky masterpiece.

Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle): The unique shape of bowtie pasta holds onto the buttery sauce beautifully. You can swap it for penne or rotini if needed, but farfalle gives the best texture.
Ground Beef: I recommend 85/15 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and tenderness. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or Italian sausage works just as well.
Garlic Butter Sauce: A mix of butter, minced garlic, and a hint of red pepper flakes infuses the entire dish with rich, savory flavor. Don’t skimp on fresh garlic – it makes a difference!
Cheese: Mozzarella and Parmesan create a gooey, creamy texture with a bit of sharpness. Feel free to experiment with cheddar or Gouda for a different twist.
Heavy Cream: This helps create a smooth, velvety sauce that clings to every piece of pasta. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half works too.

You’ll also need a large skillet and a pot for boiling pasta to bring everything together effortlessly.

How To Make Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

This recipe is as easy as it is delicious. With just a few steps, you’ll have a mouthwatering pasta dish ready to serve.

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking the bowtie pasta until al dente. Be sure to reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining – it helps bring the sauce together later.

While the pasta cooks, brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it into crumbles as it cooks, ensuring it gets nicely browned. Once done, drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.

In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Let them cook for about a minute until fragrant – this step is where all the deep, garlicky goodness comes from!

Next, return the beef to the skillet and pour in the heavy cream and pasta water. Stir in grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella, letting the cheese melt into a luscious, creamy sauce.

Finally, add the cooked bowtie pasta, tossing everything together until well coated. The sauce should cling to every piece, creating an irresistibly cheesy, garlicky bite. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which isn’t always the case!), you can store them for later.

Refrigerate: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: While the dish can be frozen, the cheese sauce may change texture slightly. If freezing, store in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm leftovers in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

This dish is incredibly customizable, so feel free to make it your own!

Protein Swap: Try ground turkey, chicken, or even shrimp instead of beef.
Veggie Boost: Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce.
Different Cheeses: Use cheddar, Gouda, or pepper jack for a fun flavor twist.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and check that all ingredients are GF-friendly.

The possibilities are endless—don’t be afraid to get creative!

With its rich, cheesy sauce and bold garlic butter flavor, this Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is sure to become a staple in your meal plan. Try it once, and you’ll keep coming back for more! 🍝✨