Description
Indulge in this rich and comforting Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter, a dish that combines tender beef, flavorful garlic butter sauce, and cheesy pasta in one simple, quick recipe. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you’re craving a hearty, satisfying meal. Ready in under 30 minutes, this one-pan wonder will become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
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8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
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Salt, for the pasta water
For the Beef:
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1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1/2 tsp dried basil
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Salt and pepper to taste
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
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4 tbsp butter (unsalted)
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Substitution Tips:
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
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Gluten-Free: Swap the bowtie pasta for gluten-free pasta.
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Meat-Free: Use plant-based ground meat or add extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water. -
Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the onion is softened. -
Season the Beef
Stir in the dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld together. -
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. -
Add the Cheese
Stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese. Let the cheese melt completely, stirring occasionally, until you have a smooth and creamy sauce. -
Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat in the creamy garlic butter sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. -
Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, beefy pasta goodness!
Notes
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Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream.
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Reheating Tips: If the pasta has thickened upon refrigeration, just add a bit of milk or cream while reheating to bring it back to its creamy consistency.
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Variations:
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Extra Veggies: Add spinach, peas, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
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Bacon: Top with crispy bacon for added texture and flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce if you like some heat.
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- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Serving
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Protein: 28g
Keywords: Cheesy pasta, Garlic butter pasta, Beef pasta recipe, One-pan dinner, Easy weeknight dinner, Comfort food pasta, Quick cheesy pasta