Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

A hearty and comforting one-pan dinner that brings together tender bowtie pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich garlic butter cheese sauce that’s irresistibly creamy and satisfying.

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???? Recipe Description

If you’re craving something cozy, cheesy, and full of flavor, this Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter will hit the spot. It’s the ultimate comfort food made in one pot — combining juicy seasoned ground beef, perfectly al dente bowtie pasta (also known as farfalle), and a luscious garlic butter cheese sauce that hugs every bite.

This dish is fast enough for a busy weeknight dinner but tasty enough to serve at a casual family gathering. The garlic butter adds a deep, savory richness, while melty cheese turns it into a creamy, indulgent bowl of goodness. Serve it with a green salad or garlic bread for the perfect dinner combo.

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???? Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• Salted water for boiling

For the Beef:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if using lean beef)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Garlic Butter Cheese Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: red pepper flakes or chopped parsley for garnish

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????‍???? Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil (if needed) and cook the onion for 2–3 minutes until softened.
2. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Add ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks.
4. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Remove beef from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Cheese Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream. Cook until the sauce thickens (about 3–4 minutes).
5. Reduce heat to low and stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked beef and drained pasta into the cheese sauce.
2. Stir until well coated. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
3. Garnish with red pepper flakes or chopped parsley if desired.

Step 5: Serve

Serve hot with crusty bread or a fresh side salad. Dig in and enjoy creamy, cheesy perfection in every bite!

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????️ Nutrition Facts (per serving, serves 4–6)

• Calories: 620 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 680mg

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???? Tips & Tricks

• Use different pasta: Penne, shells, or rotini work well if you don’t have bowties.
• Add veggies: Mix in spinach, peas, or mushrooms to bulk it up and add color.
• Make it spicier: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
• Use cheddar: Swap or add sharp cheddar for a bolder cheesy flavor.
• Meal prep: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth.

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???? From the Chef – A Personal Note

I love this recipe because it’s pure comfort in a bowl. It’s rich, cheesy, garlicky — everything I want in a hearty meal after a long day. And the best part? It’s so easy to make. Just one pan and a few staple ingredients turn into something that tastes like it took hours to prepare. Don’t skip the Parmesan — it gives the sauce that extra “oomph” that keeps everyone coming back for seconds!