Have you ever had one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day? That’s exactly what Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is—a comforting, flavorful dish that’s equal parts hearty and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let me tell you, the combination of creamy cheese, tender beef, al dente bowtie pasta, and the rich garlic butter sauce is pure magic. And the best part? It’s quick, easy, and made with ingredients you likely already have on hand!

If you’re ready to make this dish your new weeknight favorite, keep reading—and don’t forget to subscribe to my email list to get more irresistible recipes like this sent straight to your inbox!

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

This dish is packed with flavor and comfort. Here’s why I’m convinced you’ll fall in love with it:

• Irresistible Creaminess: Thanks to the melted cheese and buttery sauce, every bite is luscious and satisfying.
• Perfect Texture: The bowtie pasta holds the sauce beautifully, while the ground beef adds a meaty, hearty texture.
• One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes to wash! This recipe is simple to prepare and easy to clean up.
• Customizable: Add vegetables, swap cheeses, or use ground turkey for a leaner option—this recipe is as flexible as it is delicious.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters can’t say no to cheesy pasta goodness!

What Does Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Taste Like?

This dish is a beautiful symphony of flavors: savory and slightly salty from the beef and cheese, rich and buttery from the garlic butter sauce, with just the right touch of umami goodness. The bowtie pasta, with its slightly chewy texture, is the perfect vehicle for soaking up all that creamy sauce. And don’t even get me started on the garlicky aroma that fills your kitchen as it cooks—it’s like a promise of deliciousness!

Ingredients for Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

To make this dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Pasta and Sauce Base:

• 12 ounces bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for browning the beef)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Creamy Cheese Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• ½ cup chicken broth (or water, if you don’t have broth)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup spinach, chopped (sneak in some greens!)
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, julienned
• ½ cup mushrooms, sliced

Tools You’ll Need

To make this recipe, you’ll need just a few simple kitchen tools:

• A large pot for boiling pasta
• A large skillet or sauté pan for cooking the beef and sauce
• A colander to drain the pasta
• A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons for precise ingredient portions

How to Make Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

Let’s get cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions, and you’ll have this delicious meal ready in no time:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper, then transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant (but not browned). Stir in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using) for a hint of spice.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Gradually stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, letting each addition melt fully before adding more.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

Add the cooked ground beef back into the skillet, followed by the drained bowtie pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy garlic butter sauce.

Step 6: Optional Add-Ins

If you’re adding spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms, stir them in now and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, just until heated through.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the skillet from the heat, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley (if desired), and serve warm. Enjoy!

What to Serve with Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

This dish is rich and satisfying on its own, but you can pair it with a light side dish to balance out the flavors. Here are some ideas:

• A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or crusty French bread for dipping into the sauce
• Roasted or steamed vegetables, like broccoli or asparagus

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

• Don’t overcook the pasta! Make sure it’s cooked al dente so it doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce.
• Use freshly grated cheese for the best texture and flavor—pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
• Season as you go. Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and seasonings to your liking.
• Save some pasta water. If the sauce is too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water can help loosen it up.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Refrigerate: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm the pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or cream to bring the sauce back to life.
• Freeze: While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is perfect for this dish, penne, rotini, or shells work just as well. Choose a pasta shape that holds sauce nicely.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the bowtie pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Of course! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works wonderfully in this recipe.

What’s the best way to reheat this dish without drying it out?

Add a splash of water, milk, or cream when reheating to keep the sauce creamy and prevent the pasta from drying out.

Why You Should Make This Recipe

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is the ultimate comfort food—easy to make, versatile, and so satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, this dish is a guaranteed hit. The flavors come together effortlessly, and the creamy, garlicky sauce will have everyone asking for seconds (and the recipe!).

Looking for more pasta inspiration? Try my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta or Spicy Shrimp Alfredo next!

If you try this recipe, I’d love to see your creations! Leave a comment below, snap a photo, and share it with me on Pinterest. Don’t forget to leave a review—it helps others discover the magic of this dish too!

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

• Calories: 520
• Protein: 27g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

Now, let’s get cooking—your new favorite pasta dish is waiting!