This Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta is a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, preparing for a potluck, or just need a comforting meal on a busy weeknight, this recipe has you covered. The combination of savory ground beef and rich garlic butter sauce creates an irresistible flavor profile that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, the unique bowtie pasta shape holds all that cheesy goodness, ensuring every bite is satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Flavor Packed: The garlic butter sauce and melted cheese create a rich flavor that’s hard to beat.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the cheesy goodness and hearty beef.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use this recipe as a base and customize it with your favorite vegetables or seasonings.
- One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal!
Tools and Preparation
To make this Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having these items ready will ensure a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Colander
- Cooking spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the pasta evenly and preventing it from sticking.
- Large skillet: Perfect for cooking the ground beef and combining it with the garlic butter sauce.
- Colander: Helps drain the pasta quickly without losing any strands.
- Cooking spoon: A sturdy spoon is needed to stir ingredients thoroughly.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz bowtie pasta
For the Beef Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup beef broth
For the Cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Make Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease. Season the beef with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and add butter to the skillet with the beef. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Combine with Broth
Pour in the beef broth, stirring well. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Mix in Pasta and Cheese
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and stir until melted and creamy.
Step 6: Serve
Remove from heat, sprinkle with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley, and serve immediately. Enjoy!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta
This hearty dish is versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a casual gathering, here are some serving suggestions that will enhance your meal experience.
With a Fresh Salad
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese make a refreshing contrast.
- Greek Salad: A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese adds a bright flavor that complements the pasta.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
- Basil Leaves: Add whole or chopped basil leaves for an aromatic touch that pairs well with the garlic butter.
With Crusty Bread
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls are perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate.
How to Perfect Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta
Perfecting this recipe is all about paying attention to details. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.
- Use Quality Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a flavorful yet healthier option.
- Fresh Garlic Matters: Freshly minced garlic gives a stronger flavor compared to pre-minced options.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook bowtie pasta until just al dente; it will continue cooking when mixed with the sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper based on your preference.
- Mix Cheeses: Combine different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for added creaminess and flavor.
- Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving; this helps flavors meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta
Pairing side dishes with Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans provide a healthy contrast.
- Roasted Asparagus: Tossed in olive oil and garlic, roasted asparagus adds elegance to your plate.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add crunch and freshness alongside the creamy pasta.
- Antipasto Platter: Include cured meats, cheeses, and olives for an Italian-inspired starter.
- Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make delightful bites.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and vegetables offer a nutritious side option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the bowtie pasta for too long can lead to a mushy texture. Always follow the package instructions and test for al dente.
- Not Draining the Beef Properly: Leaving excess grease in the skillet can make your dish too oily. Drain the cooked ground beef well before adding other ingredients.
- Ignoring Seasoning: Skipping seasoning can result in bland flavors. Be sure to season the beef and pasta adequately with salt, pepper, and spices.
- Adding Cheese Too Early: If you add cheese too soon, it may not melt properly. Wait until the pasta is mixed in before sprinkling on the cheddar.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold broth or cheese can affect cooking time and texture. Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
- The Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta will stay fresh for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta
- Portion your leftovers into freezer-safe containers.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe dish, stirring every minute until hot.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth as needed to keep it moist while reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta so appealing?
Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta combines rich flavors with comforting textures, making it a delightful meal that satisfies hunger quickly.
Can I customize this Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta recipe?
Yes! You can add different vegetables like spinach or bell peppers or swap out cheeses based on personal preference.
How long does it take to make Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta?
The total time from prep to table is only about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta stores well and can be made ahead of time, making it great for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta is an easy-to-make meal that brings comfort and flavor together. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various ingredients, ensuring it fits your taste preferences perfectly. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a hearty dish that’s sure to please everyone at your dining table!

Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings a delightful twist to your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe combines savory ground beef with a rich garlic butter sauce and creamy cheeses, all enveloped in fun bowtie pasta. The unique shape of the pasta not only adds an appealing presentation but also ensures that every bite is packed with cheesy goodness. In just 30 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal that both kids and adults will love. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices for added flair, making it a versatile option for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 12 oz bowtie pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook bowtie pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until cooked through. Drain excess grease, then season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Lower the heat and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook for one minute.
- Pour in the beef broth and let simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Mix in the cooked pasta and cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 570
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. If you prefer a different cheese blend, mozzarella or gouda work wonderfully as alternatives. Letting the dish rest for a few minutes before serving helps meld the flavors beautifully.