Name: Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle); 1 lb ground beef; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 tbsp butter; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

If you’re craving the kind of cozy comfort food that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and satisfies every last carb-loving craving, this Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta hits the spot. With golden bowtie pasta nestled in a rich garlic butter sauce, mixed with savory ground beef and topped off with a generous sprinkle of melty cheese, it brings hearty satisfaction in every bite. This is the weeknight dinner that feels like a weekend indulgence.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or hosting friends for a casual dinner night, this dish fits all occasions. It comes together with pantry staples and takes under 30 minutes from start to plate. One bite and you’ll understand why it belongs in your regular rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

Hearty & Comforting: Perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, buttery, and savory flavors.
Quick & Easy: 30-minute meal with simple steps and accessible ingredients.
Family Favorite: Even picky eaters devour it with no complaints.
Meal Prep Friendly: Stores well and tastes great reheated.
Budget Friendly: Made with affordable ingredients you probably already have.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment:

Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: This is where the garlic butter sauce and beef cook together to develop rich flavors.
Pasta Pot: For boiling the bowtie pasta to al dente perfection.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Ideal for browning beef and stirring sauces without scratching your pans.
Colander: To drain the pasta without losing any.
Cheese Grater: If you’re shredding your own cheese (which melts better and tastes fresher).

Each tool plays a key role in keeping prep smooth and cleanup minimal. Having these on hand makes this recipe effortless to pull together.

Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle): The perfect shape to hold onto every bit of the creamy sauce.
Ground Beef: Brings richness and heartiness to the dish.
Garlic (Minced): Infuses the butter with aromatic flavor that carries through every bite.
Butter: The backbone of the sauce, adding a luscious mouthfeel and flavor depth.
Italian Seasoning: Adds a savory herb blend that complements both the beef and cheese.
Salt & Black Pepper: Basic but essential for balancing all the flavors.
Shredded Mozzarella: Melts into the sauce for that gooey, stretchy cheesy goodness.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty kick that pairs beautifully with the garlic butter base.
Fresh Parsley (Optional): For a bright and fresh finish.

How To Make the Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef and cook until browned. Break it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 3: Infuse the Butter

Add butter to the skillet with the cooked beef. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the drained pasta into the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter beef mixture. Reduce heat to low, then sprinkle in mozzarella and parmesan. Stir until cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with a little extra parmesan and chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve and Store Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

Serve this pasta straight from the skillet while it’s hot and gooey. Pair it with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It also works great as a one-dish dinner on its own.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short bursts with a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce, or warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat.

This dish also freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of bowtie pasta?

You can easily substitute penne, rotini, or even shells—any pasta shape that holds sauce well will work.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great leaner option that still pairs beautifully with garlic butter and cheese.

How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?

Make sure to reduce the heat before adding the cheese, and stir constantly as it melts. Shredding your own cheese helps too!

Can I add vegetables?

Yes! Spinach, peas, or finely chopped bell peppers can be stirred in for extra color and nutrients.

What cheese blend works best?

Mozzarella and parmesan are ideal for a stretchy and sharp flavor combo, but cheddar or provolone can also be added for variation.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you enjoyed this comforting Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta, check out these equally satisfying pasta recipes from Kitchen by Kate:

Creamy One-Pan Marry Me Tortellini for a rich, romantic dinner idea.
Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce with a silky garlic parmesan twist.
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese for a sweet and savory combo.
Golden Crispy Chicken with Parmesan Mushroom Sauce as an upscale skillet dinner.
Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti if you love creamy sauces with Southern flair.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Kitchen By Kate on Pinterest.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add veggies? Maybe a spicy twist? I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Drop your tips or questions below—we’re in this delicious journey together!