Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

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Tender beef pieces simmered in a rich garlic butter sauce and tossed with perfectly cooked bowtie pasta—this dish is comfort food at its finest. Creamy, cheesy, and brimming with flavor, this one-pot meal brings together hearty ingredients in the easiest way possible. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for family dinners or when you’re craving something indulgent without the hassle.

What sets this pasta dish apart is its simplicity and depth of flavor. The garlic butter melts into the beef, creating a savory base, while the gooey cheese clings to every piece of pasta. It’s the kind of dinner you’ll find yourself coming back to over and over again. Plus, cleanup is a breeze since everything comes together in one pot!

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

• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with beef and cheese to satisfy any appetite.
• Weeknight Friendly: Ready in under an hour.
• Comfort Food Classic: Rich garlic butter flavor makes this irresistible.
• Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.

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

This recipe shines with bowtie pasta (farfalle), thanks to its ability to hold onto the cheesy, buttery sauce in its crevices. However, if you’re out of bowtie pasta, feel free to substitute with rotini, penne, or even egg noodles—just aim for a shape that traps sauce well and doesn’t get soggy. Avoid long pasta like spaghetti or linguine, which won’t give you the same comforting texture.

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Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in building flavor and creating that perfect creamy, cheesy finish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Beef stew meat: Tender chunks of beef create the heartiness in the dish. Choose well-marbled cuts for the best flavor.
• Bowtie pasta (farfalle): This pasta holds the sauce beautifully and adds a fun texture.
• Butter: Adds rich, savory flavor and helps caramelize the beef and garlic.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is key for that classic buttery garlic flavor.
• Beef broth: Enhances the beef flavor while helping simmer the ingredients together.
• Heavy cream: Gives the sauce a creamy base.
• Cheddar cheese: Melts into the sauce, giving it a bold, cheesy taste.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty kick and helps thicken the sauce.
• Salt and pepper: Basic but essential for seasoning everything evenly.
• Parsley (optional): For garnish and a touch of freshness.

How To Make the Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

Step 1: Sear the Beef

In a large pot or deep skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and season with salt and pepper. Sear the beef until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Saute the Garlic

In the same pot, add a bit more butter if needed, then toss in the minced garlic. Saute for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth

Return the beef to the pot and pour in the beef broth. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 25–30 minutes until the beef is tender.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add the bowtie pasta directly into the pot with the beef and broth. Stir occasionally and cook uncovered until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

Reduce heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan. Mix until everything is melted and creamy.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. Serve hot!

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How to Serve and Store Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

This rich and satisfying dish is best served immediately while the cheese is still gooey and the pasta perfectly tender. It makes a filling dinner for 4 to 6 people, depending on portion sizes. Serve it straight from the pot or transfer to a warm serving bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a beautiful touch.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. For best results, avoid freezing, as the dairy can separate.

What to Serve With Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

1. Garlic Bread

Crunchy on the outside, buttery and soft on the inside—perfect for soaking up extra sauce.

2. Caesar Salad

The crisp romaine and tangy dressing cut through the richness of the dish.

3. Roasted Vegetables

A medley of roasted carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts adds a healthy and flavorful contrast.

4. Steamed Green Beans

Light and fresh with a bit of crunch—a classic pasta side.

5. Caprese Salad

Tomato, mozzarella, and basil add brightness and complement the cheesy pasta.

6. Sauteed Mushrooms

Their umami flavor pairs beautifully with the beef.

7. Crusty Artisan Bread

Serve warm with a smear of butter for a rustic touch.

8. Balsamic Glazed Asparagus

This adds a slightly sweet and tangy balance to the richness of the pasta.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground beef instead of stew meat?
Yes, ground beef can work as a quicker alternative. Just brown it well and drain excess fat before proceeding. You may not need as much simmering time since it cooks faster.

What kind of cheese is best for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor, while Parmesan adds depth and saltiness. You can also mix in mozzarella for extra creaminess.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Cook everything as instructed, then store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Very much so! Kids love the cheesy pasta and tender beef. You can even omit the garlic if your little ones prefer a milder flavor.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try a different pasta shape or cheese blend? Did you add some spice or herbs?
I love seeing your delicious spins on my recipes. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other make every meal a hit.

Explore more comforting, easy meals on my Pinterest board: Meals We Share By Sally

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Beef & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta brings together everything you want in a weeknight dinner: bold flavor, simple ingredients, and very little cleanup. With its creamy, beefy, garlicky richness, it’s the perfect one-pot pasta to keep on rotation in your kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish delivers on both taste and convenience.

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