Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter

Introduction

Are you craving a hearty and flavorful pasta dish? Look no further than this Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter recipe. This delicious meal combines tender beef, al dente bowtie pasta, and a creamy garlic butter sauce, all topped off with a generous amount of melted cheese. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

For the pasta:

– 1 pound of bowtie pasta

– 1 tablespoon of salt

– 2 tablespoons of olive oil

For the beef:

– 1 pound of seasoned ground beef

– 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning

– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon of onion powder

For the garlic butter sauce:

– 4 tablespoons of butter

– 4 cloves of garlic, minced

– 1 cup of heavy cream

– 1 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese

– Salt and pepper to taste

For the topping:

– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese

– Fresh parsley, chopped

Steps

Follow these steps to create your Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter:

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the salt. Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the beef

In a large skillet, cook the seasoned ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Make the garlic butter sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine the pasta, beef, and sauce

Add the cooked bowtie pasta and cooked ground beef to the garlic butter sauce. Stir well to coat the pasta and beef with the sauce.

Step 5: Top with cheese and bake

Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese. Place the dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve and garnish

Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

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Variations

While this Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter recipe is delicious as is, you can also customize it to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:

1. Cajun Chicken Pasta

If you’re not a fan of beef, you can substitute seasoned ground beef with Cajun-seasoned chicken breast. Simply cook the chicken until browned and fully cooked, then add it to the garlic butter sauce along with the pasta.

2. Vegetarian Option

For a vegetarian version of this dish, omit the seasoned ground beef and replace it with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini. You can also add some cooked chickpeas or black beans for added protein.

3. Creamy Tomato Sauce

If you prefer a tomato-based sauce, you can replace the garlic butter sauce with a creamy tomato sauce. Simply combine canned crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, garlic, and your favorite Italian herbs and spices.

Tips

Here are a few tips to help you make the perfect Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter:

– Be sure to cook the bowtie pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven.

– Use lean ground beef for a healthier option, or substitute with ground turkey or chicken.

– Feel free to add additional vegetables to the dish, such as mushrooms or spinach, for added nutrition and flavor.

– Serve this dish with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender beef, al dente pasta, and creamy garlic butter sauce is simply irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

While bowtie pasta works best for this recipe, you can certainly use a different type of pasta if you prefer. Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli would all work well.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Simply cover the baking dish with foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, remove the foil and bake as directed.

3. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan are traditional choices for this recipe, you can experiment with different types of cheese. Cheddar, Gouda, or even blue cheese would all add a unique and delicious twist.

5. Can I make this recipe without meat?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this dish by omitting the seasoned ground beef. Simply follow the recipe as directed, and add your choice of vegetables or protein alternatives.