Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta: Cheesy & Delicious!

Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience, a symphony of savory flavors that promises to transform your dinner table into a haven of comfort and indulgence. Picture this: succulent beef, perfectly seared and infused with aromatic garlic butter, mingling with tender bowtie pasta, all enveloped in a luxurious, creamy cheese sauce. It’s the kind of dish that makes you close your eyes in pure satisfaction with every single bite.

While this particular combination might not trace its roots back to ancient culinary scrolls, it embodies the spirit of modern comfort food – taking beloved elements and uniting them into something extraordinary. It’s a testament to how simple, quality ingredients, thoughtfully prepared, can create culinary magic. People adore this dish not only for its incredible taste – the perfect balance of robust beef, pungent garlic, rich butter, and a melty cheese blend – but also for its delightful texture. The al dente bite of the farfalle pasta, the tender chewiness of the beef, and the gooey, stretchy cheese create an irresistible mouthfeel that keeps you coming back for more.

Whether you’re seeking a hearty weeknight dinner that comes together with surprising ease or a show-stopping dish to impress guests, this Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta delivers on all fronts. Get ready to embark on a delightful culinary journey that will undoubtedly become a cherished favorite in your recipe repertoire.

Ingredients:

• For the Beef:
  • 1.5 pounds lean ground beef (or sirloin steak, thinly sliced against the grain)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle kick)
• For the Pasta:
  • 1 pound bowtie pasta (farfalle)
  • 2 teaspoons salt (for pasta water)
• For the Garlic Butter Cheese Sauce:
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 8 cloves garlic, minced (yes, that’s a lot, and it’s glorious!)
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk, warmed slightly
  • 1 cup heavy cream, warmed slightly (for extra richness)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
  • ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional, but enhances cheese flavor)
• For Garnish (Optional):
  • Fresh chopped parsley or chives
  • Extra red pepper flakes

Preparing the Beef

1. Prepare and Season the Beef: If you’re using ground beef, gently break it apart with your hands. If you’ve opted for sirloin steak, pat the slices dry with paper towels; this is a crucial step to ensure a beautiful sear and prevent the meat from steaming. In a medium bowl, combine your ground beef or steak slices with 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, ¼ teaspoon of dried oregano, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Use your hands to thoroughly mix the seasonings into the meat, ensuring every piece is well coated. We want that seasoning to penetrate and flavor the beef from the inside out, creating a savory foundation for our dish.
2. Brown the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering and hot, add the seasoned beef. If using ground beef, break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. If using steak slices, spread them in a single layer without crowding the pan; you might need to do this in batches. This allows the meat to develop a deep, rich brown crust, which is where all that incredible flavor comes from. Cook the beef for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally for ground beef, or flipping steak slices once they’re nicely browned, until it’s cooked through and beautifully caramelized. We’re not looking to overcook it here, just get that golden-brown exterior.
3. Drain and Set Aside: Once the beef is perfectly browned, carefully drain any excess fat from the skillet. This step is important to prevent our final dish from being greasy. Transfer the cooked beef to a plate and set it aside. Resist the urge to clean the skillet just yet! Those browned bits at the bottom, often called “fond,” are packed with flavor and will be integral to our sauce.

Cooking the Pasta

1. Boil the Water: Grab your largest pot and fill it with about 4-5 quarts of water. Place it over high heat and bring it to a rolling boil. Now, for the golden rule of pasta: season your water generously! Add 2 teaspoons of salt to the boiling water. It should taste like the sea. This is the only chance you get to season the pasta itself, and it makes a world of difference in the overall flavor of your “Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta.”
2. Cook the Bowtie Pasta: Add the entire pound of bowtie pasta to the boiling, salted water. Give it a good stir to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Cook according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. What does “al dente” mean? It means “to the tooth” – the pasta should be tender but still have a slight bite, a firm resistance when you chew it. We don’t want mushy pasta, especially since it will finish cooking in our sauce. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes for bowtie pasta.
3. Reserve Pasta Water and Drain: Before you drain the pasta, make sure you scoop out and reserve at least 1 ½ to 2 cups of that starchy, flavorful pasta water. Trust me, this liquid gold is your secret weapon for creating a silky, emulsified cheese sauce later on. It helps bind everything together and achieve that restaurant-quality creaminess. Once you’ve got your pasta water, go ahead and drain the cooked bowtie pasta thoroughly in a colander. Don’t rinse it; we want that starch to help our sauce cling beautifully to every piece of pasta.

Crafting the Garlic Butter Cheese Sauce

1. Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic: Return the same large skillet (the one you used for the beef, with all those flavorful bits still in it!) to medium heat. Add 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter and let it melt. Once the butter is melted and slightly foamy, add your generous 8 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for just about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it’s incredibly fragrant. Be very careful not to let the garlic brown or burn, as burnt garlic can taste bitter and ruin the delicate flavor of our “Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta.” We’re aiming for aromatic perfection here.
2. Make a Roux: Sprinkle the ¼ cup of all-purpose flour over the melted butter and garlic. Whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes. This step creates a roux, which is essential for thickening our sauce. Cooking the flour for a couple of minutes helps to cook out the raw flour taste, ensuring a smooth and pleasant texture in your finished sauce. The mixture will form a thick paste.
3. Whisk in Milk and Cream: Gradually, and I mean gradually, start whisking in the warmed milk and heavy cream. Pour in a small amount, whisk until smooth, then add a little more, continuing to whisk vigorously after each addition. This slow process is key to preventing lumps in your sauce and achieving a beautifully smooth consistency. Once all the milk and cream are incorporated, continue to whisk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes, whisking occasionally, until the sauce visibly thickens to a consistency similar to a thin gravy.
4. Incorporate the Cheeses: Reduce the heat to low. This is a crucial step for a silky smooth cheese sauce – do not boil your cheese sauce once the cheese is added! Add the softened cream cheese first, stirring until it’s completely melted and smooth. Cream cheese not only adds a wonderful tang and creaminess but also helps to stabilize the sauce, making it less likely to separate. Next, add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir constantly, allowing the cheeses to melt slowly and fully incorporate into the sauce. Keep stirring until you have a perfectly smooth, luscious, and velvety cheese sauce. It should be utterly irresistible.
5. Season the Sauce: Taste the sauce. Now’s the time to adjust the seasonings. Add ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, or more to your preference. If you’re using it, add a tiny pinch of nutmeg; it subtly enhances the savory, nutty notes of the cheese without making the sauce taste overtly like nutmeg. Stir it all together, ensuring the flavors are perfectly balanced. This garlic butter cheese sauce is truly the heart and soul of our “Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta.”

Combining and Finishing the Dish

1. Combine Beef and Pasta: Gently add the reserved cooked beef back into the skillet with the rich, creamy cheese sauce. Give it a gentle stir to mix the beef into the sauce. Next, add the drained bowtie pasta to the skillet.
2. Toss to Coat: Using a pair of tongs, gently toss the pasta and beef with the cheese sauce. Take your time to ensure every single piece of bowtie pasta and every morsel of beef is generously coated in that glorious, thick garlic butter cheese sauce. This is where the magic truly happens, transforming individual components into a cohesive, flavorful masterpiece.
3. Adjust Consistency with Pasta Water: If the sauce seems too thick or clings too much to the pasta, slowly add some of the reserved pasta water, a splash at a time, stirring after each addition. The starch from the pasta water will help the sauce loosen up while also helping it emulsify and cling beautifully to the pasta. You might not need all of it, or you might need a bit more. Continue to add and stir until you reach your desired creamy, flowing consistency. We’re looking for a sauce that coats the pasta perfectly without being watery or excessively thick. This step is crucial for achieving that ultimate, crave-worthy texture in your “Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta.”
4. Final Taste and Garnish: Give the entire dish one last taste. Does it need a bit more salt? A dash more pepper? Perhaps a tiny pinch more red pepper flakes for an extra whisper of warmth? Adjust as needed until it’s absolutely perfect for your palate. Remove the skillet from the heat.

Serving Suggestions

1. Serve Immediately: “Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta” is best enjoyed piping hot, straight from the skillet. The warmth keeps the cheese sauce at its most luxurious and creamy.
2. Garnish Generously: Before serving, sprinkle generously with fresh chopped parsley or chives for a burst of color and fresh flavor. A final dusting of extra grated Parmesan cheese never hurts, and for those who love a little extra zing, a few more red pepper flakes can be added.
3. Pairing: This rich and comforting dish pairs wonderfully with a simple, crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A side of warm, crusty garlic bread would also be an excellent companion for soaking up any extra sauce.
4. Leftovers: If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely, given how delicious this is!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you might need to add a splash of milk or water to help loosen the sauce back to its creamy consistency.

Conclusion:

Ultimately, what truly sets this dish apart, making it an absolute cornerstone for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike, is its undeniable ability to deliver profound satisfaction with minimal fuss. The rich, savory notes of perfectly seasoned beef, enveloped in that glorious garlic butter, combined with the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth cheesiness clinging to every delightful bowtie, creates an experience that is nothing short of culinary magic. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in a warm hug, comforting your soul with every single forkful. This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s an event, a celebration of simple, robust flavors that come together in perfect harmony. It’s incredibly versatile, satisfying even the pickiest eaters, and truly embodies the essence of hearty, homemade goodness. The blend of textures – tender pasta, succulent beef, and gooey cheese – is simply irresistible, promising a feast for the senses that you’ll want to revisit again and again. I can confidently say that if you’re looking for a dish that is both impressive and unfussy, this one ticks all the boxes. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when treated with a little love and the right technique, can create something truly extraordinary. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to a genuinely delightful dining experience that you won’t soon forget.

Serving Suggestions & Creative Variations to Elevate Your Meal

Now, while this pasta dish is a complete meal in itself, I always love to think about how we can enhance the experience or adapt it to different tastes. For a lighter, fresher contrast, consider serving a simple, crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette alongside. The brightness of fresh greens can beautifully cut through the richness of the pasta, providing a delightful balance. A side of warm, crusty bread, perhaps brushed with a little extra garlic butter, would be absolutely divine for soaking up any leftover sauce – trust me, you won’t want to leave a drop behind! It’s the perfect accompaniment to ensure no delicious drop goes to waste and every last bit of flavor is savored.

For those who love to experiment, the possibilities are endless. If you’re not a fan of beef, ground turkey or even finely diced chicken breast could be wonderful substitutes, cooked in the same flavorful garlic butter base. Vegetarians could try swapping the beef for sautéed mushrooms and spinach, or even plant-based ground meat alternatives, ensuring the umami depth remains. Feeling adventurous with your pasta shape? Penne, rigatoni, or even orecchiette would work beautifully, holding onto that luscious sauce and cheese. Don’t be afraid to adjust the spice level either; a pinch of red pepper flakes stirred in with the garlic can add a fantastic kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat. For an even creamier consistency, a splash of heavy cream at the very end, just before serving, can take it to another level of indulgence. And if you have fresh herbs on hand, a sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil as a garnish not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of fresh flavor that truly brightens the whole dish. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability, allowing you to tailor it to your personal preferences and whatever ingredients you might have on hand. Feel free to make this recipe truly your own, experimenting with different ingredients to discover your perfect version!

Your Culinary Adventure Awaits!

I truly hope I’ve inspired you to roll up your sleeves and give this incredible recipe a try. It’s one of my personal favorites, and for good reason! There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating a dish that looks as impressive as it tastes, without spending hours in the kitchen. Imagine the smiles around your dinner table when you present this comforting and flavorful meal. The joy of cooking, for me, comes not just from the act itself, but from sharing the delicious results with others. So, whether you’re looking for that perfect comfort food after a long day or planning a cozy dinner with loved ones, the Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta truly stands out as a memorable and utterly delectable choice. Don’t hesitate any longer! Dive into this recipe, savor every moment of preparation, and most importantly, enjoy every single bite. And when you do, please come back and tell me all about your experience. I absolutely adore hearing about your kitchen successes and any creative twists you added. Your feedback and stories inspire me and our whole community of home cooks, helping us all grow and discover new favorites. Share your photos, your triumphs, and even your questions – let’s build a wonderful culinary conversation around this fantastic meal! Happy cooking, my friends!

Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta: Cheesy & Delicious!

Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience, a symphony of savory flavors that promises to transform your dinner table into a haven of comfort and indulgence. Picture this: succulent beef, perfectly seared and infused with aromatic garlic butter, mingling with tender bowtie pasta, all enveloped in a luxurious, creamy cheese sauce. It’s the kind of dish that makes you close your eyes in pure satisfaction with every single bite.

Prep Time
25 Minutes

Cook Time
30 Minutes

Total Time
55 Minutes

Servings
6 servings

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt (for beef)
• ½ tsp black pepper (for beef)
• ½ tsp garlic powder (for beef)
• ½ tsp onion powder (for beef)
• ¼ tsp dried oregano
• Pinch red pepper flakes (optional, for beef)
• 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• 2 tsp salt (for pasta water)
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter
• 8 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk, warmed
• 1 cup heavy cream, warmed
• 1 cup beef broth, warmed
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp salt (for sauce)
• ¼ tsp black pepper (for sauce)
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
• Extra red pepper flakes (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Season 1 lb ground beef with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, ¼ tsp dried oregano, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Brown the beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until cooked through and caramelized (5-7 min). Drain any excess fat and set beef aside.
2. Step 2
   Bring 4-5 quarts of water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Add 2 tsp salt. Cook 12 oz bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente (10-12 min). Reserve 1.5-2 cups of starchy pasta water before draining the pasta thoroughly.
3. Step 3
   Return the same skillet to medium heat. Melt 6 tbsp unsalted butter. Add 8 cloves minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant; do not burn. Sprinkle in ¼ cup all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
4. Step 4
   Gradually whisk in 3 cups warmed whole milk, 1 cup warmed heavy cream, and 1 cup warmed beef broth until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer, whisking occasionally, until the sauce visibly thickens (3-5 min). Reduce heat to low. Stir in 4 oz softened cream cheese until melted, then add 1 cup shredded cheddar, 1 cup mozzarella, and ½ cup Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and luscious. Season with ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, and an optional pinch of nutmeg.
5. Step 5
   Add the reserved cooked beef and drained bowtie pasta back into the skillet with the cheese sauce. Toss gently with tongs to ensure every piece is generously coated. If the sauce is too thick, slowly add reserved pasta water, a splash at a time, until desired creamy consistency is reached. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
6. Step 6
   Serve the Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta hot. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley or chives and extra grated Parmesan cheese. Additional red pepper flakes can be added for extra warmth.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.