If you’re looking for a warm, comforting dish that’s quick to prepare and loaded with flavor, this Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a must-try! With savory ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, it’s an irresistible combination that will have your family asking for seconds. Best of all, it comes together in no time—perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something satisfying and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes! It’s perfect for those hectic nights when you want something homemade without the long prep time.
Super Cheesy: If you love cheese, this dish is for you! The cheesy, melty goodness adds a creamy, comforting touch to the beef and pasta.
Kid-Friendly: This dish is a hit with kids and adults alike. The mild flavors and fun bowtie pasta shape make it appealing to everyone at the table.
One-Pot Wonder: You can make this whole meal in one pan, which means fewer dishes to wash—a huge win on busy evenings!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is made with simple ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground Beef: The star of the dish! Ground beef brings richness and a savory flavor that perfectly complements the pasta and cheese.
Bowtie Pasta: These fun, little pasta shapes are perfect for this dish. They hold the sauce and cheese wonderfully, making every bite satisfying.
Cheese: A blend of mozzarella and cheddar is used to give this dish that gooey, melty cheese texture. Feel free to use your favorite cheese or even experiment with something like Monterey Jack.
Tomato Sauce: Adds depth and a little acidity to balance the richness of the cheese and beef. You can use a simple marinara or any tomato-based sauce you like.
Garlic: A couple of cloves of minced garlic will bring in that savory flavor we all love. It complements the beef beautifully.
Onion: A small onion, chopped finely, will give the dish extra flavor and aroma.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (or dried oregano) are the main flavor boosters here. Feel free to adjust to your taste!
Olive Oil: Used to sauté the onion and garlic, giving the base of the dish a nice depth of flavor.

Variations

This Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is wonderfully customizable! Here are a few variations to try:

Spicy Kick: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to bring a little heat to the dish.
Veggie Boost: Toss in some spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra veggies and color.
Different Protein: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or go for ground sausage for more flavor.
Cheese Lovers: Use different cheeses like Gouda, Parmesan, or a sharp cheddar for even more flavor complexity.

How to Make Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant. Then, add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through.

Step 3: Add the Sauce

Stir in the tomato sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors together. You can add a splash of water or broth if the sauce seems too thick.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Beef Mixture

Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet with the beef and tomato sauce. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top of the beef and pasta mixture. Stir until the cheese is melted and everything is nicely coated with cheesy goodness.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the cheesy beef and pasta hot, and get ready to enjoy the rich, creamy flavors with every bite.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Lean Beef: If you prefer a lighter version, use lean ground beef or even ground turkey. Just be sure to drain any excess fat before adding the sauce.
Customize the Cheese: While mozzarella and cheddar are perfect for this recipe, feel free to get creative with your cheese choices. A sharp cheddar or a mix of cheeses will add more depth to the flavor.
Sauce Consistency: If you like a saucier dish, feel free to add a little extra tomato sauce or a splash of cream for added richness.
Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to absorb the sauce and flavors as it cooks with the beef.

How to Serve

This dish is great on its own, but here are a few ideas for sides to complete your meal:

Garlic Bread: A warm, crispy slice of garlic bread is always a perfect companion to any cheesy pasta dish.
Side Salad: A light green salad with a simple vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the pasta.
Roasted Veggies: Roasted broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers would add a fresh, savory side that complements the dish beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk to help loosen the sauce.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in the microwave or stovetop. If the sauce has thickened, you can add a little extra tomato sauce or water to bring it back to its creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe with a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, like penne, rotini, or spaghetti. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you’re using.

Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Yes, if you enjoy some heat, try adding red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or even a splash of hot sauce to the beef and tomato sauce mixture.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! You can mix in veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to add extra flavor and nutrition to the dish.

How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the beef and sauce ahead of time, then store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, just cook the pasta and combine everything. You can also freeze the dish once it’s assembled, then reheat it when you’re ready to eat.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights. It’s quick, cheesy, and packed with flavor that everyone in your family will love. Whether you’re cooking for one or serving a crowd, this dish is sure to impress. So grab those ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy the comforting goodness of this hearty pasta dish!

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe