Ultimate Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta Recipe

Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience, a symphony of flavors that promises to transform an ordinary weeknight into a culinary celebration. I find few dishes evoke such immediate comfort and profound satisfaction as this robust combination. Imagine tender, succulent beef, seared to perfection and infused with aromatic garlic butter, mingling harmoniously with perfectly al dente bowtie pasta. Then, picture every delicious morsel enveloped in a luscious, melted cheesy sauce that clings lovingly to each noodle and piece of beef, ensuring a burst of rich flavor with every single bite.

While this specific concoction may not boast centuries of ancient history, it beautifully encapsulates the enduring appeal of hearty, comforting cuisine. It’s a modern classic that masterfully blends the beloved elements of Italian-American comfort food – pasta, rich beef, and an abundance of gooey cheese – into one unforgettable dish. People adore this pasta for its irresistible taste profile: the savory depth of beef, the fragrant warmth of garlic butter, and the creamy indulgence of melted cheese creating a truly harmonious and satisfying palate. It’s not just delicious; it’s convenient enough for a bustling evening, yet feels special enough for a gathering. That’s precisely why I am confident you’ll find immense joy in both preparing and savoring this incredible Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta. It’s the ultimate expression of comfort in a bowl.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Bowtie Pasta:
  • 1 pound (approximately 450 grams) bowtie pasta (farfalle)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for pasta water)
  • Salt, generous amount (for pasta water)
• For the Flavorful Garlic Butter Beef:
  • 2 pounds (approximately 900 grams) lean ground beef (I often use 85/15 or 90/10 for a good balance of flavor and less grease)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided (2 tablespoons for the beef, 2 for later)
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced (divided: 3 cloves for the beef, 3 cloves for later)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle warmth)
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
• For the Rich Cheesy Garlic Butter Sauce:
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups whole milk, warmed gently (this helps prevent lumps!)
  • 2 cups heavy cream, warmed gently
  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 ½ cups shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish, if desired)
  • The remaining 3 cloves of minced garlic from above
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (trust me, it enhances the cheese flavor without making it taste like mustard!)
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (a classic for cheese sauces, it really brings out their depth)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For Garnish (Optional):
  • Fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • Extra grated Parmesan cheese

Prepping and Cooking the Garlic Butter Beef:

This is where we build the foundational savory flavor for our Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta. Taking your time here ensures a rich and delicious base.

1. Heat Your Pan and Sauté the Aromatics: Grab a large, deep skillet or a Dutch oven. Place it over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Let it melt and sizzle gently. Add your finely diced yellow onion to the melted butter. Sauté the onion for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft, translucent, and just begins to turn golden. This caramelization adds a wonderful sweetness to the beef.
2. Brown the Ground Beef: Push the softened onions to one side of the pan. Add the ground beef to the other side. Break it up with a wooden spoon or spatula. You want to brown the beef thoroughly, letting it cook without stirring too much initially to allow a nice crust to form on the meat. This process should take about 8-10 minutes. As it cooks, continue to break it down into smaller, even pieces. Once the beef is fully browned and no pink remains, carefully drain off any excess grease. I usually tilt the pan and use a spoon or ladle to scoop out the fat, leaving just enough to keep the beef moist.
3. Infuse with Garlic and Seasonings: Now, reduce the heat to medium. Add 3 cloves of your minced garlic to the beef and onion mixture. Stir well and cook for just 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and the optional red pepper flakes. Season generously with 1 teaspoon of sea salt and ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, allowing all those beautiful flavors to meld together with the beef. At this point, the aroma filling your kitchen will be absolutely incredible – a true testament to the savory depth we’re building for our pasta dish.
4. Add the Finishing Touch of Garlic Butter: Turn off the heat. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the hot beef mixture. Stir until the butter is completely melted and coats every piece of beef. This adds that crucial “Garlic Butter” element directly into the beef, boosting its richness and ensuring every bite of beef is packed with flavor. Set the beef aside while you prepare the pasta and the cheesy sauce.

Cooking the Bowtie Pasta:

Perfectly cooked pasta is essential for any great pasta dish, and our Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta is no exception. We’re aiming for al dente!

1. Prepare the Pasta Water: Grab a large pot, the biggest one you have! Fill it about two-thirds full with water. Add a very generous pinch of salt – I’m talking about at least 2-3 tablespoons. The water should taste like the sea, as this is your only chance to truly season the pasta from the inside out. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the water; this helps prevent the pasta from sticking together. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Cook the Bowtie Pasta: Once the water is at a vigorous boil, add the 1 pound of bowtie pasta. Stir immediately to prevent the pasta from sticking to itself or the bottom of the pot. Cook according to the package directions, but always check it a minute or two before the suggested cooking time. For bowtie pasta, this usually means around 10-12 minutes.
3. Achieve Al Dente Perfection: The goal here is “al dente,” which means “to the tooth.” The pasta should be tender but still have a slight firmness in the center when you bite into it. It shouldn’t be mushy. I always recommend tasting a piece of pasta before draining to ensure it’s just right.
4. Drain the Pasta (and Reserve Water!): Once your pasta is perfectly al dente, turn off the heat. Carefully drain the pasta using a colander. Important: Before draining all the water, reserve about 1 ½ cups of the starchy pasta cooking water. This starchy water is liquid gold for sauces – it helps emulsify and bind the cheese sauce later, making it incredibly smooth and luxurious. Set the drained pasta aside in the colander.

Crafting the Cheesy Garlic Butter Sauce:

This is where the magic truly happens, transforming simple ingredients into a velvety, rich, and utterly irresistible cheesy sauce that will envelop our Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta. This sauce is thick, creamy, and loaded with flavor.

1. Start Your Roux: In the same large skillet or Dutch oven you used for the beef (no need to clean it if you prefer to retain some of that beefy flavor, just ensure it’s reasonably clean), melt 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted and shimmering, sprinkle in the ½ cup of all-purpose flour. Whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until a smooth paste forms and it smells slightly nutty. This is your roux, the thickening agent for our glorious sauce. Cooking it for a couple of minutes ensures there’s no raw flour taste.
2. Whisk in the Liquids: Gradually, while whisking constantly, pour in the warmed whole milk and heavy cream. Pour slowly, about ½ cup at a time, whisking vigorously after each addition to incorporate the liquid fully into the roux and prevent any lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and lump-free. Once all the milk and cream are added, increase the heat slightly to medium-high and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, continuing to whisk. As it simmers, it will begin to thicken significantly. This process might take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Infuse with Garlic and Essential Seasonings: Once the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency (it should coat the back of a spoon), reduce the heat to low. Add the remaining 3 cloves of minced garlic, the teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and the ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Stir thoroughly to combine. The Dijon adds a subtle tang that brightens the cheese, and the nutmeg truly enhances the savory notes of the cheddar and mozzarella. Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Start with about ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of pepper, then adjust as needed after the cheese is added.
4. Melt in the Cheeses: Now for the best part! Remove the pan from the heat entirely or keep it on the absolute lowest setting. Gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese, a handful at a time. Stir continuously with your whisk or a rubber spatula after each addition, allowing the cheese to melt completely and smoothly into the sauce before adding more. This gradual melting helps achieve that ultra-creamy, silky texture we’re after, preventing the cheese from clumping or becoming oily.
5. Achieve Velvety Smoothness: Continue stirring until all the cheese is incorporated, and you have a beautifully smooth, glossy, and thick cheese sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, whisk in a splash or two of your reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. This starchy water works wonders for creating a perfect, emulsified sauce. Taste the sauce again and adjust salt and pepper if necessary. Remember, the cheeses also contribute saltiness, so always taste before adding more.

Bringing It All Together: Assembling Your Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta:

This is the exciting moment where all our delicious components unite to create the ultimate comfort dish!

1. Combine Beef and Pasta: Return your large skillet or Dutch oven (the one holding the cheesy sauce) to very low heat. Add the cooked and drained bowtie pasta directly into the cheese sauce. Then, add the browned Garlic Butter Beef mixture into the pan with the pasta and sauce.
2. Gently Fold Everything Together: Using a large spatula or tongs, gently fold the pasta and beef into the cheesy sauce until everything is thoroughly combined and every piece of pasta and beef is coated in that luscious cheese. Work carefully to avoid breaking up the pasta too much. The warmth from the sauce will ensure the pasta and beef are perfectly heated through. If the mixture seems a little too thick, or you desire a looser consistency, gradually stir in a little more of your reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your preference. This is often necessary to achieve that perfect sauciness.
3. Final Taste and Adjustment: Taste the entire dish. This is your last chance to adjust the seasonings. Does it need a little more salt? A pinch more black pepper? Perhaps a dash more red pepper flakes for an extra kick? Season until it’s perfect for your palate. The interplay of the savory garlic butter beef with the rich, cheesy sauce should be absolutely harmonious.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips:

Your Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta is now ready to be enjoyed! Here are some thoughts on how to serve it and keep it fresh.

1. Serve Immediately: This dish is at its absolute best when served hot and fresh, right off the stove. The cheese sauce will be wonderfully creamy and flowing.
2. Garnish for Freshness: Spoon generous portions into individual bowls. For an extra touch of freshness and color, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. A final dusting of extra grated Parmesan cheese also adds a lovely sharp finish.
3. Pairing Suggestions: This pasta dish is incredibly rich and satisfying on its own, making it a complete meal. However, it pairs beautifully with a simple, crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The bright acidity of the salad provides a wonderful contrast to the richness of the pasta. A side of crusty garlic bread is also always a welcome addition for soaking up any extra sauce!
4. Storing Leftovers: If you happen to have any leftovers (which is a rare occurrence with this recipe!), transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It will keep well for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
5. Reheating Leftovers: When reheating, I recommend doing so gently on the stovetop over low heat. You’ll likely need to add a splash of milk or a little more reserved pasta water (if you have any left) to help loosen the sauce and bring back its creamy texture, as cheese sauces tend to thicken significantly when cooled. Stir frequently until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through and adding a small amount of liquid if needed.

Conclusion:

If there’s one recipe I genuinely believe everyone needs in their culinary arsenal, it’s this one. What we’ve explored today is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of comfort, flavor, and pure, unadulterated deliciousness that effortlessly brings warmth to any table. I can confidently say that after trying this, you’ll understand why it’s poised to become a beloved staple in your home. The harmonious marriage of succulent beef, infused with aromatic garlic butter, embraced by a luscious cheesy sauce and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, creates an experience that truly transcends the ordinary. This is the magnificent dish we call the Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta, and it’s a showstopper.

Why is this particular recipe a must-try, you ask? Well, it’s all about the layers of incredible flavor and the sheer satisfaction it delivers. Imagine the tender pieces of beef, seared to perfection and brimming with savory juices, each bite coated in that irresistible garlic butter essence. Then, picture the rich, velvety cheese sauce, expertly melted and clinging to every curve of the delicate bowtie pasta, providing an unforgettably creamy texture. This dish strikes that perfect balance between hearty and comforting, indulgent yet incredibly approachable for any home cook. It’s the kind of meal that makes weeknights feel like special occasions and weekend gatherings feel even more festive. The aromas alone as it simmers are enough to make mouths water, promising a deeply satisfying culinary journey that you and your loved ones will adore.

When it comes to serving, this dish is wonderfully versatile. While it’s robust enough to stand on its own, I love pairing it with a simple, crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette; the refreshing crunch provides a beautiful contrast to the rich pasta. A warm, crusty loaf of artisanal bread is also a fantastic addition, perfect for soaking up any last delicious drops of that incredible sauce. For a touch of sophistication, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives just before serving – their vibrant green color and subtle freshness really make the dish pop. And if you’re thinking about beverages, a medium-bodied red wine, or even a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon, would complement its flavors beautifully without overwhelming them.

But don’t stop there; one of the joys of cooking is making a recipe truly your own! This Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta is incredibly adaptable. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses – a blend of mozzarella and provolone will yield an extra gooey, stretchy texture, while a touch of smoked gouda could add a unique depth. For those who love a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes stirred into the sauce can awaken your palate. If you’re looking to incorporate more vegetables, consider sautéing some sliced mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or a handful of fresh spinach with the beef; they’ll add lovely color, texture, and nutrients without detracting from the core flavors. You could also try different sturdy pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or even fettuccine if bowties aren’t on hand. For a lighter twist, shredded cooked chicken could replace the beef, or for a spicier alternative, try Italian sausage. The possibilities for customization are truly endless, allowing you to tailor this masterpiece to your family’s precise preferences.

So, I genuinely urge you not to let another week pass without giving this recipe a try. Don’t hesitate to embark on this delightful cooking adventure. You deserve the sheer pleasure that comes from creating something so profoundly delicious with your own hands, and your taste buds will certainly thank you for it. It’s an experience that delivers on every promise of flavor and comfort, and I’m confident it will quickly become one of your most requested meals.

Finally, I am absolutely thrilled at the thought of you making this incredible Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta your own. I can’t wait to hear about your experiences! Please don’t be shy; share your culinary triumphs, your photos, and any delightful tweaks or variations you discover. Connect with me and let me know how it turned out. Your feedback and creativity are what make this shared cooking journey so rewarding and inspiring. Happy cooking, and prepare to fall in love with your new favorite pasta dish!

Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

This comforting Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta combines tender, garlic-infused ground beef with al dente bowtie pasta, all enveloped in a rich, velvety cheddar cheese sauce. A modern classic blending hearty flavors for a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time
20 Minutes

Cook Time
35 Minutes

Total Time
55 Minutes

Servings
4-6 servings

Ingredients

• 12 oz bowtie pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for pasta water)
• Salt (for pasta water)
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced, divided
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk, warmed
• 1 cup beef broth, warmed
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1
   In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter; sauté diced onion 5-7 mins. Add 1 lb ground beef, brown 8-10 mins, then drain fat. Reduce heat, add 2 cloves minced garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (optional), ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp pepper; cook 2-3 mins. Turn off heat, stir in remaining 2 tbsp butter until melted. Set aside.
2. Step 2
   Boil heavily salted water with 1 tbsp olive oil. Cook 12 oz bowtie pasta until al dente (approx. 10-12 mins). Reserve 1 cup starchy pasta water, then drain pasta.
3. Step 3
   In the skillet, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter; whisk in ¼ cup flour for 1-2 mins to form a roux. Gradually whisk in warmed milk and beef broth, stirring until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer, whisking until thickened (5-7 mins). Reduce heat to low. Stir in remaining 2 cloves minced garlic, ½ tsp Dijon mustard, and ¼ tsp nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat. Gradually add 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until completely melted and smooth. Adjust thickness with reserved pasta water if needed.
4. Step 4
   Return skillet with cheese sauce to very low heat. Add cooked bowtie pasta and the prepared garlic butter beef. Gently fold to combine until everything is coated. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if desired. Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

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.