There's nothing quite like the comforting embrace of Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter. With every bite, you get tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a luscious, garlicky butter sauce that perfectly coats each piece. The gooey melted cheese binds everything together, making this dish an instant family favorite.

I first made this dish on a whim, trying to use up leftover ground beef and pasta sitting in my pantry. Little did I know, it would become a staple in our weekly meal rotation! Quick, easy, and packed with flavor, it's the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with excitement.

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta

Get ready to add this recipe to your regular dinner lineup! Here’s why it’s a must-try:

First, it’s quick and easy. You can have this dish on the table in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying in a hurry.

It’s also budget-friendly. With simple pantry staples like pasta, ground beef, butter, and cheese, you can feed a hungry family without breaking the bank.

The garlic butter sauce is the real star here. It infuses the dish with rich, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with the cheese and beef, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

And let’s not forget the cheese factor. This dish is loaded with melty goodness that stretches with every forkful, making it utterly irresistible.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple, high-impact ingredients. Here’s what you need and why they work so well together:

Bowtie pasta – Also known as farfalle, this pasta shape is perfect for holding onto the creamy, cheesy sauce. If you don’t have bowties, penne or rotini will work just as well.

Ground beef – I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and tenderness. Leaner beef works too, but you may need to add a bit more butter for richness.

Garlic butter – A combination of fresh minced garlic and melted butter takes this dish to the next level. The garlic infuses the butter with deep, aromatic flavor that coats every bite.

Cheese – I love using a mix of shredded mozzarella and sharp cheddar for the best melt and a hint of tang. Feel free to experiment with your favorites!

Chicken broth – A little broth adds moisture and enhances the overall depth of flavor in the sauce. You can substitute beef broth if you want an even richer taste.

How To Make This Cheesy Beef And Bowtie Pasta

Making this dish is as simple as cooking the pasta, browning the beef, and bringing everything together in a garlic butter sauce. Here’s how:

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your bowtie pasta and cook it until al dente, following the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.

In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Return the cooked beef to the skillet and pour in the chicken broth, letting it simmer for a couple of minutes to develop rich flavor. Then, add the drained pasta and stir everything together until well combined.

Sprinkle in the shredded cheese, stirring continuously until it melts and coats the pasta beautifully. If needed, add an extra splash of broth or a little more butter to get the perfect consistency.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more as it sits, making for an extra delicious next-day meal.

To freeze, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

For reheating, simply warm the pasta on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it from drying out. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each one.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. Here are a few ways to switch things up:

Want a spicier version? Add some crushed red pepper flakes or stir in a bit of hot sauce for a kick.

For a healthier twist, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You can also use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for extra fiber.

Love veggies? Try adding sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for an extra nutritional boost. Just toss them in with the garlic butter before adding the beef back in.

If you're a cheese lover, experiment with different cheeses like Parmesan, Gouda, or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor profile.

No bowtie pasta on hand? No problem! This recipe works well with penne, rotini, or even spaghetti—just use whatever you have in your pantry.

This Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is comfort food at its finest. Whether you make it as written or put your own spin on it, one thing’s for sure—it’ll disappear fast! Enjoy!