Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a comforting, family-friendly dish that combines tender ground beef, perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, and a creamy cheese sauce. It’s hearty, satisfying, and quick enough for a busy weeknight dinner. The cheesy goodness and savory beef flavors come together in every bite, making it a go-to pasta dish everyone will love.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

bowtie pastaground beefoniongarlicItalian seasoningtomato pastadiced tomatoesbeef brothcheddar cheesemilkbutterfloursaltpepper

directions

Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.

Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.

Stir in tomato paste, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.

In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.

Slowly add the milk to the roux, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened.

Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy.

Combine the cooked pasta, beef mixture, and cheese sauce in a large pot or skillet. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.

Let the mixture heat through for a couple of minutes, then serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 25 minutesTotal time: 35 minutes

Variations

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Use mozzarella or a cheese blend for a different flavor profile.

Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra veggies.

Top with breadcrumbs and broil for a crispy finish.

Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the pasta seems dry.You can also freeze it for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, penne, rotini, or macaroni all work well in place of bowtie pasta.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The creamy cheese sauce and mild flavors make it a hit with kids.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat before serving.

What kind of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar melts well and adds great flavor, but you can also use Monterey Jack or Colby.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and substitute flour with a gluten-free thickener in the cheese sauce.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly and tastes better.

Should I drain the tomatoes?

No, include the juices to help create a flavorful sauce.

Can I add cream cheese?

Yes, adding a few tablespoons will make the sauce even creamier.

Is this freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well in a sealed container for up to 2 months.

What can I serve with this pasta?

A fresh green salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this dish.

Conclusion

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings comfort food to a whole new level. Perfect for weeknights or when you need a crowd-pleasing meal, this creamy, cheesy pasta is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Try it once and it just might be your new favorite go-to recipe.