This Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta is one of those recipes that makes everyone stop and ask, “What smells so good?” Tender bowtie noodles coated in a creamy garlic-butter sauce, seasoned ground beef, and melty cheese — it’s the kind of dinner that feels fancy but takes just 30 minutes. Comfort food made simple, right from Jake’s kitchen to yours.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta
If you love easy skillet dinners that taste like they took all day, this one’s for you.
- One pan, 30 minutes, full flavor
- Creamy, buttery, and garlicky goodness
- Family-friendly and budget-friendly
- Perfect weeknight comfort food
- Customizable with veggies or spice
- Feels indulgent but easy to make
Back when I worked late shifts on the road, I’d come home starving and tired — all I wanted was a quick, hearty meal that reminded me of home. This pasta dish became that go-to. It’s got all the things I love: garlic, butter, beef, and enough cheese to make any day better.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This creamy beef pasta is built on simple, affordable ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz bowtie pasta – holds sauce perfectly
- 1 lb ground beef – the hearty protein base
- 3 tablespoons butter – rich, savory flavor foundation
- 4 garlic cloves, minced – gives it that deep, comforting aroma
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – enhances the beef’s flavor
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – a cozy herby touch
- Salt and pepper to taste – essential seasoning
- 1 cup beef broth – keeps everything saucy and flavorful
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – creamy, gooey finish
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – nutty, salty sharpness
- Fresh parsley, chopped – optional for garnish and color
Optional Add-Ons or Substitutes
- Add spinach, mushrooms, or peas for more veggies
- Swap cheddar for mozzarella or provolone for extra stretch
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper for heat
- Stir in cream cheese for an even creamier texture
- Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness
Step-by-Step Instructions
This skillet pasta comes together quickly and delivers big flavor with little effort.
- Cook the pasta according to package directions in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Add butter to the skillet and let it melt into the beef.
- Stir in garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer. Let it reduce slightly for 2–3 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta back to the skillet and toss to coat.
- Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and creamy.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Quick Reminders:
- Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest melt
- Don’t overcook the pasta — it will continue to absorb sauce
- Adjust thickness with a splash of broth or milk
- Stir constantly when adding cheese to avoid clumping
Expert Tips for Success
This pasta is simple but can easily become a restaurant-level dish with a few small upgrades.
- Brown beef well — caramelization adds flavor depth
- Use unsalted butter so you control the salt
- Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce for extra umami
- Mix cheeses (cheddar + mozzarella) for melt and flavor
- For extra creaminess, stir in 2 tablespoons cream cheese
- Finish with cracked black pepper before serving for contrast
- Serve immediately — it thickens as it cools
For more creamy pasta comfort, try my Garlic Parmesan Beef Pasta or Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni — both pair beautifully with this dish when you’re craving a cozy Italian-style dinner.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty enough on its own, but a few sides take it to the next level.
- Pair with garlic bread or dinner rolls for dipping
- Add a green salad with a zesty vinaigrette for freshness
- Serve with roasted broccoli or asparagus
- Sprinkle extra Parmesan and black pepper before serving
- Enjoy with Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine for a buttery double feature
- Try alongside Hearty Cabbage Beef Bake for a full family-style spread
Storing and Reheating
This pasta reheats beautifully — perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
How to Store It
- Let cool completely before storing
- Keep in an airtight container up to 4 days in the fridge
- Add a splash of broth or milk when reheating
- Avoid freezing — dairy-based sauces may separate
How to Reheat It
- Stovetop: Warm on low heat, stirring often, adding a splash of liquid
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each
- Add extra cheese right before serving to refresh flavor
- Garnish with fresh herbs for a “just-made” look
Estimated Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 540 | Fat: 30g | Carbs: 36g | Protein: 32g | Sugar: 2g | Fiber: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Cook everything except the cheese, refrigerate, then reheat and stir in cheese right before serving.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, peas, spinach, or mushrooms mix in perfectly. Just sauté them before adding the broth.
What’s the best side dish?
Try it with Crazy Good Casserole for an ultra-comforting meal combo.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta is that perfect mix of easy and indulgent — rich, creamy, and full of homemade flavor. It’s the kind of skillet meal that makes any night feel like a special occasion without the extra work.
From the first sizzle of butter and garlic to the last cheesy bite, this recipe captures everything I love about home cooking — hearty, honest, and made with care.
- Use real butter for the best flavor
- Freshly grate your cheese — it’s worth it
- Serve hot, straight from the skillet
Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Add butter to the skillet and let it melt into the beef.
- Stir in garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer. Let reduce slightly for 2–3 minutes.
- Add cooked pasta back to skillet and toss to coat.
- Stir in cheddar and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Nutrition
Notes
- Use freshly grated cheese for best melt.
- Add veggies like spinach or peas to customize.
- Stir in cream cheese for extra creaminess. Use turkey for a lighter version.
Tried this recipe?
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