When I first whipped up this Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta, I didn’t expect it to become a weeknight staple in my kitchen—but here we are. There’s just something irresistible about the way the garlic butter melts into every crevice of the bowtie pasta, clinging to the juicy, seasoned ground beef, all wrapped in a creamy layer of melted cheese. It’s comfort food at its finest—simple ingredients, bold flavors, and ready in no time.

This dish was born out of one of those “what’s in the fridge?” moments, and now I find myself making it on repeat. Whether you’re cooking for your family, friends, or just yourself (with leftovers you’ll be excited about), this pasta brings warmth and flavor in every bite. If you’re into quick dinners that feel like a hug in a bowl, this one is going to hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

Quick & Satisfying: Ready in under 30 minutes with everyday ingredients.
Rich, Buttery Flavor: The garlic butter sauce adds a silky, savory touch.
Crowd-Pleaser: Adults and kids both devour it—no complaints at the dinner table.
One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup, more eating. Win-win.
Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day, seriously.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta?

I love using bowtie pasta (farfalle) for this recipe because its shape holds onto the buttery, cheesy sauce so beautifully. Each “tie” catches bits of beef and melted cheese, giving you that perfect bite every time. But if you don’t have bowties on hand, don’t worry. This recipe is super flexible—penne, rotini, or even elbow macaroni will do the trick. The key is to choose a pasta shape that can grab onto that garlic butter and beef mixture.

Options for Substitutions

Whether you’re working with pantry basics or adjusting for dietary needs, here are some great swaps:

Ground Beef: You can easily switch it out for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version. Plant-based ground “meat” works wonderfully too.
Cheddar Cheese: While sharp cheddar gives a bold flavor, mozzarella, Colby Jack, or a Mexican blend are all tasty alternatives.
Butter: Salted or unsalted both work. If you’re dairy-free, vegan butter is a solid replacement.
Pasta: Gluten-free pasta works well—just watch the cooking time to avoid mushiness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can do in a pinch.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle)
This pasta shape is not just pretty—it holds the sauce perfectly and gives great texture in every bite.
Ground Beef
Juicy and flavorful, the beef is the hearty base that balances the richness of the butter and cheese.
Butter
Butter is the soul of this recipe. It creates a silky sauce that coats the pasta and brings everything together with a luxurious touch.
Fresh Garlic
Minced garlic infuses the butter with a bold aroma and deep savory flavor. It’s the backbone of the whole dish.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese
Melted into the pasta, the cheddar creates a creamy, cheesy finish that turns this dish into full-on comfort food.
Salt and Black Pepper
Simple seasonings that enhance all the other flavors without overpowering them.
Fresh Parsley (Optional)
Adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness to balance out the richness.
Grated Parmesan (Optional)
Sprinkled on top for an extra layer of savory, cheesy goodness.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Add the Garlic Butter

Reduce the heat to low. Push the beef to one side of the pan and melt the butter on the other side. Add the minced garlic and let it cook in the butter for about 1 minute until fragrant—be careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Mix the garlic butter into the beef, then stir in the drained pasta. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to help coat everything smoothly.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheese

Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit more pasta water for a silkier texture.

Step 6: Season and Finish

Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed. For extra flavor, toss in a handful of grated Parmesan and garnish with chopped parsley.

How Long to Cook the Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

From start to finish, this recipe takes about 25–30 minutes:

Pasta Cooking Time: 10–12 minutes
Browning the Beef: 6–8 minutes
Garlic Butter & Cheese Step: 5–8 minutes

It’s one of those meals that feels like it took much longer—perfect for busy nights when you still want something comforting and homemade.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente is key—it continues cooking slightly when mixed with the hot beef and cheese.
Use Fresh Garlic: It makes a huge difference in flavor. Pre-minced garlic just doesn’t hit the same.
Drain the Beef Fat: Too much grease can make the sauce oily. A quick drain after browning keeps the texture rich but not heavy.
Add Pasta Water Gradually: This starchy liquid helps create a glossy sauce. Add just enough to get the consistency you want.
Melt Cheese Off Heat: Turn the heat off or very low when adding cheese to prevent it from clumping or getting grainy.
Customize the Cheese Blend: Try mixing sharp cheddar with mozzarella or Colby Jack for added depth.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping the Pasta Water: That starchy liquid helps the garlic butter and cheese cling to the pasta beautifully—don’t toss it all out!
Burning the Garlic: Garlic cooks quickly. Keep the heat low when sautéing in butter, or it can turn bitter fast.
Overcrowding the Pan: If your skillet is too small, the beef might steam instead of browning. Use a wide pan to get that flavorful sear.
Adding Cheese Over High Heat: Melting cheese on high heat can make it gritty. Turn the heat down to avoid ruining that creamy finish.
Using Dry Pasta Substitutes: While other pastas work, avoid thin shapes like angel hair—they can’t hold up to the richness of this dish.

What to Serve With Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta?

Simple Green Salad

A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta beautifully.

Garlic Bread or Breadsticks

Because there’s never too much garlic—perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce.

Steamed Broccoli

A healthy, crisp veggie side that pairs well without competing for attention.

Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

They add a pop of sweetness and acidity that complements the cheesy, buttery flavors.

Red Wine or Sparkling Water

If you’re feeling fancy, a glass of wine or even lemony sparkling water elevates the whole experience.

Creamy Cucumber Yogurt Dip

Cool and tangy, it’s a great palate cleanser between bites.

Lemon Herb Chicken

Add a lean protein if you want to bulk up the meal or feed a larger crowd.

Caprese Skewers

Mozzarella, tomato, and basil on a stick—light, fresh, and easy to prep ahead.

Storage Instructions

Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta stores like a dream, making it a fantastic option for leftovers or meal prep.

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce.
Freezer: You can freeze it, though the texture of the cheese may change slightly. Let it cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Tip: Stir while reheating to redistribute the garlic butter and cheese evenly.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving, Based on 4 Servings)

Calories: ~560 kcal
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 510mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g

Note: Nutrition will vary based on cheese type, fat content in beef, and any substitutions used.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of ground beef is best for this pasta?

I recommend using 85/15 or 90/10 lean ground beef. It offers a nice balance of flavor and fat without making the dish greasy. Just be sure to drain any excess fat before adding the butter.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! It reheats really well. You can make it up to 2 days in advance, then store it in the fridge. Reheat with a splash of water or milk to revive the creamy texture.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely. Cheddar is classic here, but mozzarella, Colby Jack, gouda, or even a mix of cheeses can bring new layers of flavor.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or even a diced jalapeño when cooking the beef. It adds a nice kick without overwhelming the garlic butter.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Very! The cheesy, buttery flavors are usually a big hit with kids. If they’re picky about garlic, you can reduce the amount slightly.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, just swap the butter and cheese for plant-based alternatives. Many vegan cheeses melt well and still deliver a creamy texture.

How do I keep the cheese from clumping?

Turn the heat to low or off when adding the cheese and stir constantly. This helps it melt smoothly into the pasta.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely. Spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or peas can all be added in with the beef or after the garlic butter step for extra texture and nutrition.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta is the kind of recipe that proves comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s bold, buttery, and loaded with cheesy goodness—all ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, prepping for the week, or just craving something warm and satisfying, this pasta delivers every time. It’s a dish I come back to again and again, and once you try it, I’m pretty sure you will too.