Name: Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 12 oz bowtie pasta; 1 lb ground beef; 3 tbsp butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup beef broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 ½ cups shredded Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; Grated Parmesan for garnish; Equipment:; Large skillet; Pot for boiling pasta; Wooden spoon or spatula

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

There’s something about a simple, cheesy, beefy pasta dish that just makes everything feel a little cozier. This Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter has been a staple in our home for years, and every time I make it, it disappears almost instantly! The first time I whipped this up, it was one of those busy weeknights when I needed something quick but still packed with flavor. I had ground beef in the fridge, a box of bowtie pasta in the pantry, and just enough cheese to turn it into something special.

What I love most about this recipe is how effortlessly it comes together. The beef is browned to perfection, then simmered in a rich, garlicky butter sauce that clings to every bite of pasta. And the cheese—oh, the cheese! It melts right into the dish, making each forkful as indulgent as the last. My kids, who are usually picky eaters, devour this without question, and my husband always goes back for seconds.

This is the kind of meal that makes you feel like you’ve put in way more effort than you actually did. It’s hearty, filling, and packed with simple yet bold flavors. If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying dinner that’s perfect for busy families, this is it. I promise—after one bite, you’ll understand why this is one of our all-time favorites!

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While bowtie pasta holds the sauce beautifully, you can swap it for penne, rotini, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat it on the stove with a splash of broth or milk to loosen up the sauce.

What type of cheese works best?
I love using freshly shredded Parmesan for a nutty flavor, but cheddar, mozzarella, or even a blend of Italian cheeses will work beautifully.

Can I make this without beef?
Yes! You can substitute the beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative for a lighter option.

What side dishes pair well with this?
A simple green salad and garlic bread make perfect sides. Roasted veggies like broccoli or zucchini also complement the dish well.

What You Need to Make Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

Ingredients:

12 oz bowtie pasta

1 lb ground beef

3 tbsp butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup beef broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 ½ cups shredded Parmesan cheese

1 tsp Italian seasoning

½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Grated Parmesan for garnish

Equipment:

Large skillet

Pot for boiling pasta

Wooden spoon or spatula

How to Make Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

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.

Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat.

Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet, stirring until fragrant (about 1 minute).

Combine Ingredients: Pour in the beef broth and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Let the sauce thicken slightly.

Add the Cheese: Stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Mix Everything Together: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until fully coated in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and additional grated Parmesan before serving. Enjoy!

Tips for Making the Best Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

Use fresh garlic for the best flavor—jarred garlic won’t provide the same richness.

Don’t overcook the pasta—keeping it al dente helps it hold up to the creamy sauce.

Add extra cheese if you want an even creamier, gooier consistency.

For a spicy kick, add a bit more red pepper flakes or even some crushed black pepper.

Want to make it even heartier? Try tossing in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added texture and flavor.

Reader Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “This was a hit with my whole family! My kids don’t usually like pasta dishes, but they loved this one. So easy to make!” – Jessica T.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Absolutely delicious and so creamy! I followed the recipe exactly, and it turned out perfect. Will definitely make again!” – Mark L.

⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Loved the flavors, but I think next time I’ll add a little more garlic butter. Just my personal taste preference!” – Sarah R.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Perfect weeknight dinner! Super fast and easy, and my husband went back for thirds. That says it all!” – Emily D.

⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Very tasty, but I used half-and-half instead of heavy cream to lighten it up. Still turned out great!” – Rachel M.

Printable Recipe

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