If you’re searching for a comforting and flavorful dinner that comes together quickly, this Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef and Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Picture tender bowtie pasta coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, studded with savory ground beef, and generously smothered in melted cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. It’s a dish that looks impressive but is utterly simple, combining familiar ingredients into a meal that warms both your belly and your heart.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large white pot with blue handles sits on a wooden board on a white marbled surface. Inside the pot, there is a thick layer of chopped white onions spread at the bottom right side, a cluster of minced meat placed on the upper left, and a small pile of minced garlic near the onions. Next to the pot on the board are several clear glass bowls and containers: a bowl of uncooked farfalle pasta in the center, a bowl of shredded yellow cheese on the bottom left, a small container with red powder spice beside it, and two small clear shakers with black and white lids. To the right of the board is a large clear measuring cup filled with dark brown liquid, and to the left of the board is a similar cup of white liquid. A gray and white striped kitchen towel is folded and positioned near the left side of the pot. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef and Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe starts with straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in turning simple components into a show-stopping dish. From the hearty ground beef adding robust flavor and protein, to the garlic butter sauce lending richness and aroma, every item works in harmony to create a balanced, satisfying plate.

12 oz bowtie pasta: The perfect shape to hold onto sauce and cheese in every bite.
1 lb ground beef: Adds a savory depth and protein that makes this dish filling and hearty.
3 tablespoons butter: The star of the sauce, giving it a silky, rich base.
4 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with fragrant, garlicky goodness.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Delivers subtle sweetness and umami complexity.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a bright medley of herbs that lifts the dish.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to enhance and balance all the flavors.
1 cup beef broth: Adds moisture and richness, creating a luscious sauce.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts smoothly to give that irresistible cheesy pull.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharpness and a nutty finish on top.
Fresh parsley for garnish: A pop of color and freshness to brighten the dish.

How to Make Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef and Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cooking the bowtie pasta until it’s perfectly al dente. This texture ensures the pasta holds up well when tossed with the rich sauce and ground beef, giving you just the right bite in every forkful. Once cooked, drain and set aside to keep it ready for the next step.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from feeling oily, then season the beef with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. These spices infuse the meat with layers of flavor that make the dish truly mouthwatering.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

Lower the heat and add the butter directly to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. As the butter melts, stir in the minced garlic and cook it just until fragrant—about a minute. This step creates a wonderfully aromatic base that will coat your pasta perfectly and bring warm, comforting notes to the whole dish.

Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the beef broth and stir to combine everything in the skillet. Allow the mixture to gently simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, letting it reduce slightly and thicken. This forms the luscious sauce that not only adds moisture but also intensifies the savory flavors, tying all ingredients together wonderfully.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese

Now for the cheesy, creamy moment: add the cooked pasta into the skillet and toss well so every piece is coated with the garlic butter sauce and beef. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top and stir until it melts completely, turning the dish into a gooey, luscious feast that’s impossible to resist.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve the Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef and Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe

Remove the skillet from heat and finish by sprinkling grated Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley over the pasta. This combination adds a sharp, nutty flavor plus a fresh burst of color that makes the dish look as incredible as it tastes. Serve immediately to enjoy the creamy cheese at its best.

How to Serve Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef and Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe

A close-up view of a white bowl filled with bow-tie pasta mixed with small chunks of cooked brown meat, topped with a yellow-orange melted cheese layer that glistens slightly. The dish is sprinkled with finely grated white cheese and small green parsley leaves scattered over the top. The pasta pieces have a ridged texture and the colors range from light beige to yellow and brown, creating a rich, warm look. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley isn’t just for looks—it brightens every bite and complements the rich flavors beautifully. A little extra grated Parmesan at the table lets everyone customize their cheesiness. For a touch of heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes, or add a squeeze of lemon juice to cut through the richness with a fresh zing.

Side Dishes

This hearty pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette, offering a refreshing crispness to balance the cheesy, buttery sauce. Garlic bread or crusty rolls are perfect to soak up any leftover sauce, while steamed or roasted veggies like broccoli or asparagus add vibrant color and nutrients.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the pasta in individual ramekins topped with a sprinkle of extra cheese and parsley for a pretty presentation, especially if you’re entertaining. Or empty the skillet onto a large serving platter for a family-style meal that invites everyone to dig in. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of toasted nuts can add an unexpected texture boost to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftover Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef and Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe into airtight containers. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a fabulous make-ahead meal for busy weeknights or quick lunches.

Freezing

This dish freezes surprisingly well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Although the texture of the pasta might soften slightly after freezing, reheating with a splash of broth or milk can restore its creaminess and deliciousness perfectly.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave in intervals, stirring regularly. Adding a little beef broth, milk, or butter will help loosen the sauce and bring back that freshly-cooked creaminess, ensuring every bite tastes just as comforting as on day one.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is perfect for holding the sauce, other short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells work just as well to capture all that cheesy, beefy goodness.

Is it possible to make this recipe without ground beef?

Yes! For a lighter or vegetarian option, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives can be substituted without sacrificing flavor. Just adjust seasoning as needed.

Can I use pre-minced garlic instead of fresh?

You can, but fresh garlic really elevates the flavor in this recipe. If you must use pre-minced, use about a teaspoon and add it during the butter melting step for the best aroma and taste.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Try adding red pepper flakes while cooking the beef or stirring in a dash of hot sauce when combining the cheese. Fresh jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper can also add a delightful kick.

Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?

Definitely! You can cook the pasta and brown the beef ahead of time. Store them separately and assemble with the sauce just before serving for a speedy dinner solution.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef and Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe is one of those dishes you can’t help but crave again and again. It’s simple, satisfying, and bursting with flavor, perfect for a family meal or impressing friends with minimal effort. Give it a try—you’re going to love how easily this recipe turns ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary comfort food classic.