Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta – Easy Family Dinner Recipe

Why Make This Recipe

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a comforting dish that brings the whole family together. It takes just a little over 30 minutes to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of cheesy goodness, tender pasta, and hearty ground beef will surely satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it uses simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry, making it an affordable and accessible meal option. This recipe is not just delicious; it’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup for you after dinner. Everyone loves a hearty meal, and this one is sure to become a family favorite, served up with smiles all around the table!

How to Make Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Making Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is quite simple and straightforward. Just follow the steps below, and you will have a delicious meal ready in no time.

Ingredients

To make Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:

• 12 oz (340g) bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (240ml) milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Now let’s break down the steps:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8 to 10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside, but be sure to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water. This will be helpful later to loosen the sauce if needed.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once the oil is heated, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it becomes fragrant. Then add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break the meat apart as it cooks. Season with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Allow the beef to brown completely, stirring occasionally, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, approximately 1 minute. Next, sprinkle the flour over the butter and garlic, stirring constantly for about a minute to cook the flour slightly. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Keep cooking until the sauce thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and mix in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the drained pasta to the skillet with the beef and the creamy cheese sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Once everything is well combined, plate the pasta and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot, and watch your family dig in!

How to Serve Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is best served warm right after you’ve finished cooking it. You can serve it in bowls or plates, topped with additional cheese or freshly chopped herbs for more flavor. This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread to balance the richness of the cheese sauce. A glass of your favorite beverage, like lemonade or iced tea, makes it a perfect meal. Don’t forget to keep some extra cheese on the table for those who want to add even more cheesy goodness!

How to Store Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

If you have leftovers, storing Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is easy. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you might want to add a splash of milk or pasta water to help bring back the creamy texture. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Tips to Make Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Make sure you cook the pasta until it’s al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the hot beef and sauce.
• Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition, consider adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the beef while it cooks. This can add flavor and make the dish even more satisfying.
• Spice It Up: If you and your family enjoy a bit of heat, add more red pepper flakes or even some chopped jalapeños to the ground beef as it cooks.
• Use Different Cheeses: While mozzarella and Parmesan are a tasty combo, feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as cheddar or gouda.
• Make it Gluten-Free: You can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Variation

There are endless ways to put a twist on this Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta recipe. For instance:

• Taco Style: Add taco seasoning to the beef, and top it with crushed tortilla chips and guacamole for a taco-inspired version.
• Creamy White Sauce: Swap out the garlic butter sauce for an Alfredo sauce for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with plant-based ground meat, lentils, or mushrooms to create a vegetarian-friendly version of this dish.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the components separately (pasta, beef, and cheese sauce), then combine them before serving. This way, everything can be freshly heated up when you’re ready to eat.

2. How spicy is this dish?
   The recipe suggests red pepper flakes as optional. You can adjust the amount or leave them out entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.

3. What can I serve with Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta?
   This dish goes well with a fresh side salad, garlic bread, or even steamed vegetables. It pairs nicely with any light and refreshing sides to balance the richness of the pasta.

4. Can I freeze leftovers?
   Yes, you can freeze Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta. Just make sure you place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly when ready to eat.

5. What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
   If you’re out of Italian seasoning, you can mix dried oregano, basil, and thyme together to create a similar flavor. You can also use other herbs such as Herbes de Provence for a unique twist.

Enjoy the ease and flavor of Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta. Your family will appreciate both the comforting taste and the effort you put into making this delightful meal. Happy cooking!

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