Savory and comforting, Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Cheddar Sauce is a delightful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. This creamy pasta recipe combines tender beef with bowtie pasta, all enveloped in a rich cheddar sauce that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe delivers on flavor and satisfaction.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 30 minutes of cooking time, you can have a delicious dinner ready in no time.
• Creamy Comfort: The velvety cheddar sauce elevates the dish, making it irresistibly creamy and satisfying.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily swap ingredients based on your preferences or what you have at home.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for families and entertaining guests, this hearty meal is sure to please all palates.
• Leftover Friendly: The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers just as delicious!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smooth and efficient, gather your tools before starting. Having the right equipment can make all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing beef and creating your rich sauce in one pan.
• Colander: Helps drain pasta quickly while retaining its shape.

this recipe

Ingredients

For the Beef

• 1 lb beef sirloin or chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Pasta

• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons garlic butter (or regular butter with 1 tsp minced garlic)
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Cheddar Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain it well and set it aside.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add bite-sized beef pieces and season them with salt, pepper, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Sear each side for 3-4 minutes until they are deeply golden and crisp on the edges. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add garlic butter and let it melt while scraping up any browned bits from the pan.

Step 4: Simmer with Broth

Pour in beef broth, bringing it to a simmer for about 2 minutes. Stir in heavy cream, then reduce heat to low.

Step 5: Create Creamy Cheese Sauce

Add Velveeta cheese cubes to the skillet. Stir constantly until fully melted and blended into the sauce. Next, add shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until you reach a thick, creamy consistency.

Step 6: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Add cooked bowtie pasta to the sauce mixture, stirring gently to coat each piece thoroughly with cheesy goodness.

Step 7: Incorporate Beef

Return seared beef back into the pan, gently folding it into the creamy pasta mix. Let everything warm together for about 2-3 minutes.

Step 8: Serve

Serve hot with optional chopped parsley garnish if desired. Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Cheddar Sauce

Serving Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Cheddar Sauce is all about enhancing its comforting flavors. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Chives: Add finely chopped chives to bring an oniony flavor that complements the dish.

Pair with Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and a tangy flavor that balances the richness of the pasta.
• Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.

Serve with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls can soak up the cheesy goodness, making every bite delightful.

Accompany with Wine or Juice

• Sparkling Water: The bubbles in sparkling water cleanse the palate between bites.
• Fruit Juice: Pairing with a light fruit juice can add sweetness without overpowering the dish.

How to Perfect Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Cheddar Sauce

Perfecting Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Cheddar Sauce takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure success.

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t skimp on seasoning the beef; it enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking pasta just right ensures it holds up well in the creamy sauce without becoming mushy.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh herbs and high-quality cheeses for the best flavor.
• Emphasize Texture: Aim for a balance of creamy sauce, tender beef, and al dente pasta for an enjoyable eating experience.

Best Side Dishes for Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Cheddar Sauce

Pairing side dishes with Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Cheddar Sauce can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some tasty options to consider.

1. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection provides great flavor and nutrition.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Crisp-tender broccoli adds color and a healthy element that complements the pasta.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the cheese sauce.
4. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes pair beautifully, allowing you to enjoy even more comfort food.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn provides a fun texture contrast while being easy to prepare alongside your main dish.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers can serve as a hearty side that incorporates more vegetables into your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking beef and bowtie pasta in cheddar sauce can be straightforward, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Boldly neglecting seasoning: Many people skip seasoning the beef before cooking. Always season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor of your dish.
• Boldly overcooking the pasta: Overcooked pasta becomes mushy and unappealing. Always follow package instructions and test for al dente doneness.
• Boldly rushing the cheese melting process: Adding cheese too quickly can result in clumping. Stir slowly and allow each cheese to melt fully before adding the next.
• Boldly skipping the resting time: Allowing the finished dish to rest helps meld flavors together. Take a few minutes before serving for best results.
• Boldly ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality cheese or broth can affect the overall taste. Invest in good-quality ingredients for a richer flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3–4 days for best quality.

Freezing Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Cheddar Sauce

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Cheddar Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat with a splash of beef broth or cream, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding beef and bowtie pasta in cheddar sauce that might help you perfect your dish.

Can I use another type of pasta instead of bowtie?

You can certainly substitute bowtie pasta with other shapes like penne or fusilli, but keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary.

What can I use instead of Velveeta cheese?

If you prefer, you can use a mix of cream cheese and shredded cheddar as an alternative to Velveeta for that creamy texture.

How spicy is this Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Cheddar Sauce?

This recipe is not spicy at all. For a kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking the beef.

How do I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?

Replace the beef with sautéed mushrooms or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

Beef and bowtie pasta in cheddar sauce is a delightful meal that combines hearty flavors with creamy goodness. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or trying different cheeses. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

Print

Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Cheddar Sauce

---

• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Cheddar Sauce is a creamy, comforting dish that brings together tender beef and bowtie pasta enveloped in a rich cheddar sauce. This delightful meal is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, offering a satisfying blend of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. In just about 30 minutes, you can whip up this indulgent recipe, making it an excellent choice for both special occasions and cozy weeknight dinners.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb beef sirloin or chuck
• 12 oz bowtie pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons garlic butter
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 oz Velveeta cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

---

Instructions

1. Cook bowtie pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season and sear the beef pieces until golden brown. Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, melt garlic butter, then add beef broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in heavy cream and reduce heat to low. Add Velveeta, cheddar, mozzarella, and stir until smooth.
5. Incorporate cooked pasta and seared beef into the sauce, mixing gently until well combined.
6. Serve hot with optional parsley garnish.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 540
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 31g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Feel free to substitute different pasta shapes or cheeses based on your preferences. For added flavor, include sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.