Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter Recipe
Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is an indulgent, hearty, and flavorful dish that brings together tender pasta, savory beef, and a creamy, garlicky butter sauce that melts into every bite. This dish is comfort food at its best, perfect for a cozy family dinner, a weekend gathering, or a weeknight meal that feels special without too much effort. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s easy to make yet incredibly satisfying.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water over medium-high heat. Once the water comes to a boil, add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
When the pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water (this will help thicken the sauce and bring everything together). Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break the beef into smaller pieces as it cooks. Brown the beef for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink.
Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onions are softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic, oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant and the spices are well incorporated.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once cooked, remove the pan from the heat and set it aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same pan, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning. You want the garlic to turn fragrant and slightly golden but not browned.
Next, pour in the chicken broth (or beef broth if you prefer a richer flavor) and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes. This will deglaze the pan and lift all the delicious brown bits left from the beef, infusing the sauce with more flavor.
Stir in the heavy cream, allowing it to blend with the broth and butter. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens slightly.
Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and add the Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Beef
Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce, along with the cooked beef mixture. Toss everything together, making sure the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy, cheesy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add some of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
Give everything a final taste check and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Once everything is combined and heated through, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper, if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce.
Enjoy your meal!
Creative Variations and Serving Suggestions
While Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is delicious on its own, there are several ways to customize and enhance the dish to suit different tastes or occasions. Here are some creative variations and serving suggestions to help you elevate your meal:
1. Add More Vegetables
Incorporating more vegetables into the dish is a great way to boost its nutritional value and introduce new textures and flavors. Here are some vegetable options that pair well with the creamy garlic butter sauce:
- Spinach: Fresh or frozen spinach can be easily added to the beef mixture. Stir it in just before combining with the pasta so it wilts into the sauce.
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add a savory, umami depth to the dish. Add them to the pan after cooking the onions and before adding the garlic to the beef.
- Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli florets are an excellent option to add a pop of color and a mild, nutritious crunch. You can stir them into the pasta or serve on the side.
- Zucchini: Thinly sliced zucchini or zucchini ribbons bring a fresh, light flavor that complements the richness of the garlic butter sauce.
2. Use Different Pastas
While bowtie (farfalle) pasta works beautifully in this recipe, feel free to use other pasta shapes depending on your preference or what you have on hand. Some great alternatives include:
- Penne or Rigatoni: Their tube-like shapes hold the sauce well, creating a satisfying bite.
- Fettuccine: A wider pasta such as fettuccine can work wonderfully for creamy pasta dishes, providing a broader surface to absorb the rich garlic butter sauce.
- Rotini: The spiral shape is ideal for trapping the sauce in each swirl, making each bite full of flavor.
- Shells: Small shells or large pasta shells are great for holding onto sauce, offering a wonderful bite in every forkful.
3. Add a Protein Twist
If you’re looking for a protein-packed variation or wish to add some extra flair, here are a few protein options you can add to the dish:
- Italian Sausage: Ground Italian sausage adds a burst of flavor with its seasoning and slightly spicy kick. You can mix it with the ground beef or use it alone for a different flavor profile.
- Chicken: Grilled, pan-seared, or rotisserie chicken can be shredded and added to the sauce for a lighter, poultry-based version of the dish.
- Shrimp: For a seafood twist, sauté shrimp in garlic butter and toss them with the pasta. The shrimp will soak up the flavors of the sauce, making each bite delightful.
- Bacon: Crispy bacon bits or pancetta can be added for a salty, smoky flavor. Sprinkle them over the top for an added crunch.
4. Spice Things Up
For those who enjoy a bit of heat in their dishes, here are some ways to spice up your Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter:
- Jalapeños or Chilies: Add finely chopped fresh jalapeños or other chili peppers to the garlic and onions as they cook to infuse the dish with heat.
- Hot Sauce: A dash of your favorite hot sauce can be stirred into the garlic butter sauce to kick up the spice factor. Sriracha, Frank’s RedHot, or a tangy chipotle sauce are great choices.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: If you like a slow, building heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes used in the recipe. You can even sprinkle some extra on top just before serving for a burst of flavor.
5. Add a Crunchy Topping
Adding a crunchy topping can provide a wonderful textural contrast to the creamy pasta and beef. Consider these options:
- Breadcrumb Topping: Toasted breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese can be sprinkled on top of the pasta just before serving. The crunchy topping adds a satisfying bite.
- Cheese Crust: For a cheesy crust, sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella or Parmesan over the pasta and place it under the broiler for a few minutes. This will create a golden, bubbly cheese crust on top of the dish.
- Crumbled Chips: If you like a salty, crunchy contrast, crumbled tortilla chips or even potato chips can be sprinkled over the dish just before serving for a fun twist.
Pairing Suggestions
To make your meal even more enjoyable, consider pairing Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter with complementary sides and beverages:
Side Dishes
- Garlic Bread: This is a classic side for any pasta dish. The garlicky, buttery bread will be perfect for dipping into the extra sauce left on your plate.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp, fresh Caesar salad with Romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and crunchy croutons offers a light balance to the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers bring a sweet and smoky flavor that contrasts well with the creamy pasta.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus with a squeeze of lemon pairs well with the buttery sauce and adds a fresh element to the meal.
Wine Pairings
The richness of Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter calls for wines that can balance its flavors. Here are some good wine pairings to consider:
- Chardonnay: A full-bodied, oaked Chardonnay has a buttery richness that complements the garlic butter sauce and cheese in the dish. The wine’s acidity will also cut through the creaminess, refreshing your palate with each sip.
- Cabernet Sauvignon: For a bolder red wine pairing, try a Cabernet Sauvignon. Its tannins and deep fruit flavors will work well with the savory beef and rich, cheesy sauce.
- Sauvignon Blanc: If you prefer white wine but want something a bit lighter, a crisp and zesty Sauvignon Blanc can balance the richness of the dish without overwhelming it.
- Zinfandel: A slightly spicy Zinfandel would be a great choice, especially if you’ve added spicy ingredients like red pepper flakes or hot sauce. Its fruitiness and bold flavors will complement the beef and the garlic butter sauce.
Conclusion
Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is a versatile and satisfying dish that combines comforting flavors with rich, creamy textures. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a cozy weeknight meal, or a special occasion, this dish is sure to please a crowd.
With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, this recipe is an easy go-to when you need a flavorful and filling meal. And with all the creative variations, you can tailor the dish to suit your personal tastes or dietary preferences, ensuring that each time you make it, it feels fresh and exciting.
Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is a wonderful dish that combines creamy, cheesy pasta with savory beef, and a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special weekend meals. With the ability to customize the ingredients, from different cheeses to vegetables and seasonings, you can adapt this recipe to fit your family’s tastes.
Whether served on a chilly evening or as part of a dinner gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit with everyone who loves comfort food. The creamy sauce, combined with the tender pasta and seasoned beef, creates a satisfying and delicious meal that will leave your guests coming back for more. So, grab your ingredients, head to the kitchen, and enjoy this flavorful, cheesy pasta dish!
Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter Recipe
Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is an indulgent, hearty, and flavorful dish that brings together tender pasta, savory beef, and a creamy, garlicky butter sauce that melts into every bite. This dish is comfort food at its best, perfect for a cozy family dinner, a weekend gathering, or a weeknight meal that feels special without too much effort. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s easy to make yet incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
- For the Pasta:
- 1 pound (16 oz) bowtie pasta (also known as farfalle)
- Salt, for seasoning the water
- For the Beef:
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably lean, 85/15 blend)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or beef broth for a richer flavor)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (for richness)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for a salty, nutty flavor)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for meltiness and creaminess)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water over medium-high heat. Once the water comes to a boil, add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
When the pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water (this will help thicken the sauce and bring everything together). Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break the beef into smaller pieces as it cooks. Brown the beef for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink.
Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onions are softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic, oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant and the spices are well incorporated.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once cooked, remove the pan from the heat and set it aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same pan, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning. You want the garlic to turn fragrant and slightly golden but not browned.
Next, pour in the chicken broth (or beef broth if you prefer a richer flavor) and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes. This will deglaze the pan and lift all the delicious brown bits left from the beef, infusing the sauce with more flavor.
Stir in the heavy cream, allowing it to blend with the broth and butter. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens slightly.
Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and add the Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Beef
Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce, along with the cooked beef mixture. Toss everything together, making sure the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy, cheesy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add some of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
Give everything a final taste check and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Once everything is combined and heated through, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper, if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce.
Enjoy your meal!