Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

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why make this recipe

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a delightful dish that merges comforting cheese with hearty beef and pasta, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings. This meal is not only filling but also packed with flavor. The combination of the rich cheese sauce, well-seasoned ground beef, and lovely bowtie pasta creates a satisfying experience for the taste buds.

One of the best things about this dish is its simplicity. Even if you’re not an experienced cook, you can whip up this meal with ease. The ingredients are common and accessible, and the steps are straightforward. Plus, it’s an adaptable recipe—you can customize it based on your family’s tastes or whatever you have on hand. If you’re looking to serve something quick, simple, and delicious, then Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is an excellent choice.

how to make Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Making Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is easy and can be done in just a few simple steps. Below, you’ll find the detailed directions to guide you through the process.

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:

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add the bowtie pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until the pasta is al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. After cooking, drain the pasta and make sure to reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water for later use.
Sauté the Onions and Garlic: While the pasta is cooking, take a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté it until the onion becomes translucent, which should take about 4-5 minutes. After that, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, allowing the aroma to fill your kitchen.
Brown the Ground Beef: Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break the beef apart while it’s cooking. Season the beef with the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Brown the beef for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once browned, drain any excess fat in the skillet to keep the dish from being too greasy.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet where you cooked the beef, melt butter over low heat. Once melted, add minced garlic and stir for a minute to release its flavor. Then, add the all-purpose flour to the butter and garlic mix, stirring constantly for about 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook this mixture until it thickens, which will take around 3-4 minutes. Once thickened, mix in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until all the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: With the cheese sauce ready, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the beef and cheese mixture. Mix well to combine everything evenly. If the mixture seems too thick, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it up to your desired consistency.
Serve: Once everything is mixed, check the seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Now it’s ready to serve! Dish out the Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta into bowls or plates and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. This dish is best served warm and can be enjoyed as is, or with additional toppings if desired.

how to serve Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

You can serve Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta straight from the skillet for a casual meal, family-style, or portion it onto individual plates for a more polished serving. Consider offering some extra toppings on the side, such as grated Parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes for a kick, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or oregano.

This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread, which can complement the cheesy flavors wonderfully. A glass of red wine or a refreshing iced tea can also make a great beverage option alongside this delicious pasta entrée.

how to store Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

If you have leftovers (though it’s likely you won’t), Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta stores quite well. Here’s how to properly store it:

Cool: Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before storing.
Refrigerate: Transfer the pasta to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator where it can be kept for about 3-4 days.
Freezing: If you want to keep it for a longer time, you can freeze it. Place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. It can generally be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, you can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop. If it seems a bit dry, add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to restore the creaminess.

tips to make Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Season the Water: Be generous with salt when boiling the pasta. It should taste a bit like the sea, as this is the main opportunity to flavor the pasta itself.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente pasta, as it will continue to cook a bit when mixed with the hot sauce. Overcooked pasta will be mushy and won’t hold up well in the dish.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs can elevate the flavor of this dish significantly. If possible, opt for fresh garlic and parsley over dried.
Customize the Spice Level: If you like heat, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños to the beef mixture. Alternatively, if your family prefers milder flavors, you can omit the red pepper flakes entirely.
Experiment with Cheeses: While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, you can swap them for your favorites. Cheddar, fontina, or Monterey Jack can add a unique twist to the dish.
Meat Alternatives: If you want a lighter version, consider using ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat substitutes instead of ground beef. These can retain great flavor while providing a healthier option.
Vegetable Add-ins: To make the dish a bit healthier, consider adding vegetables to the mix. Spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini can be sautéed along with the onions and garlic for added nutrition.

variation

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta offers plenty of opportunities for variations. Here are some popular options:

Creamy Spinach and Chicken: Swap the ground beef for cooked, shredded chicken and add chopped fresh spinach to the cheese sauce. This creates a lighter dish rich in flavor and healthy greens.
One-Pot Wonder: For a simpler clean-up, you can make a one-pot version. Add the uncooked pasta directly to the skillet with the beef, then pour in the sauce ingredients and simmer until the pasta is cooked through.
Veggie Load: Make a vegetarian version by using a plant-based ground meat substitute and adding your favorite vegetables. Bell peppers, mushrooms, and broccoli can add vibrant colors and textures while maintaining taste.
Spicy Arrabbiata: For those who love a kick, replace the cheese sauce with a spicy arrabbiata sauce. Simply cook the pasta with marinara, garlic, and red pepper flakes for a zesty twist.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta?
- Yes, you can substitute bowtie pasta with other shapes such as penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just keep in mind the cooking times may vary depending on the pasta type.
What can I serve on the side with this dish?
- A refreshing green salad or garlic bread makes excellent accompaniments. If you’re looking to go all out, consider serving with roasted vegetables or a fruit salad for contrast.
Can I make this ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can prepare Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta ahead of time, then store in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. Just reheating it will make it just as delicious.
Is it okay to use low-fat cheese?
- Yes, you can opt for low-fat cheese if you’re looking to reduce calories. However, keep in mind that it might alter the creaminess of the sauce slightly.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?
- Make sure to generously salt the boiling water before adding the pasta. Stir the pasta occasionally while cooking, and ensure that you drain it properly without rinsing, to keep the starch intact, which helps to prevent sticking.

Happy cooking, and enjoy your Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta! This dish brings warmth and comfort to any meal, making it a staple in any home.