Creamy Cowboy Butter Baked Pasta Bake is a rich, cheesy comfort food loaded with tender pasta, savory beef, creamy sauce, garlic butter, and bold seasonings. Inspired by the flavors of cowboy butter, this hearty baked pasta is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights when you want something warm and satisfying.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6–8
Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
For the Pasta Bake
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
For the Cowboy Butter Flavor
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
Ingredient Notes
- Pasta: Short pasta shapes hold the creamy sauce best.
- Ground Beef: Adds hearty flavor and protein.
- Cream Cheese: Makes the sauce extra rich and creamy.
- Dijon Mustard: Adds tangy cowboy butter flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion and cook until softened.
- Stir in garlic and ground beef.
- Cook until beef is browned.
- Season with paprika, onion powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Lower heat and stir in butter, cream cheese, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, parsley, and thyme.
- Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in 1 cup cheddar cheese.
Step 4: Assemble the Bake
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
Step 6: Serve
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with extra parsley if desired.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving Approx.)
- Calories: 620
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
Tips
- Cook pasta slightly underdone so it stays firm after baking.
- Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
- Add crispy bacon for extra smoky flavor.
- Broil for 2 minutes at the end for a golden cheesy top.
Variations
- Chicken Version: Replace ground beef with shredded chicken.
- Spicy Cowboy Pasta: Add jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes.
- Vegetable Style: Add mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
- Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or low-carb pasta.