Description
Nothing says comfort food like a big bowl of cheesy, garlicky pasta! 😍 This Cheesy Beef & Bowtie Pasta combines tender farfalle, juicy seasoned beef, and a creamy garlic butter sauce, all topped with gooey melted cheese. It’s easy, satisfying, and perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
For the Pasta & Beef:
✔ 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)
✔ Salt & pepper to taste
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
✔ 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)
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta:
🔸 Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook bowtie pasta until al dente, then drain & set aside (reserve ½ cup pasta water).
2️⃣ Cook the Beef Mixture:
🔸 Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, cook until browned (5-7 min).
🔸 Stir in onion & garlic, cook until soft (3 min).
🔸 Add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt & pepper. Remove from skillet & set aside.
3️⃣ Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
🔸 In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 min.
🔸 Whisk in flour, cook for 1-2 min to form a roux.
🔸 Slowly whisk in milk, bring to a gentle simmer, and cook until thickened (3 min).
4️⃣ Combine Everything:
🔸 Reduce heat to low, stir in mozzarella & Parmesan until smooth.
🔸 Toss in cooked pasta & beef mixture, coating evenly. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!
🔸 Transfer to bowls, garnish with parsley & extra Parmesan. Serve warm & enjoy! 😋
Notes
✔ Want a lighter version? Swap beef for ground turkey or chicken.
✔ Make it veggie-packed! Add spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers.
✔ Storing leftovers? Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days & reheat with a splash of milk.