The Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe is a delightful, comforting meal that brings together tender bowtie pasta and savory ground beef in a garlicky butter sauce that bursts with rich flavor. Every forkful offers a perfect balance of hearty meatiness, aromatic garlic, and a gentle buttery finish, making it a go-to dish for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Simple to prepare yet impressive in taste, this recipe is sure to become one of your favorites for any occasion.

Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this dish. Each component plays an essential role, whether it’s the bowtie pasta’s unique shape holding the sauce beautifully or the fresh garlic that infuses warmth into every bite.

12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta: The perfect pasta shape to catch all the garlicky butter and beef goodness in every bite.
1 lb ground beef: Provides hearty, savory flavor and a satisfying texture to the dish.
2 tbsp olive oil: Used for sautéing and adding a silky finish to the pasta.
1 small onion, finely diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic base for the sauce.
3 garlic cloves, minced: The star ingredient that infuses the dish with a bold, fragrant punch.
1/2 cup beef broth: Adds depth and moisture, making the sauce luscious and flavorful.
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle kick that elevates the dish without overpowering it.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: A salty, nutty topping that enhances every mouthful.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together.
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: A fresh, vibrant garnish that adds color and brightness.

How to Make Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta

Start by boiling the bowtie pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until perfectly al dente. This ensures the pasta has a wonderful bite that complements the rich sauce. Once cooked, drain it well and set aside so it’s ready to be combined with the beef mixture.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it becomes translucent and sweet. Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds. This step is crucial because it releases the garlic’s natural oils and flavors, forming the aromatic base of the dish.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Break it apart with your spatula and cook until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink, about 5 to 6 minutes. If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it off for a leaner finish while keeping the beef flavorful.

Step 4: Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the beef broth and sprinkle in the optional red pepper flakes for a subtle spice if you like a little heat. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Allow this mixture to simmer for 3 to 4 minutes so the broth reduces slightly, intensifying the flavors and creating a light sauce that will cling to the pasta.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta

Return the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss everything together thoroughly. This step is the magic moment where the garlic butter, beef, and pasta unite. If it feels a bit dry, drizzle a touch more olive oil to add gloss and moisture, ensuring every bite is rich and luscious.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Serve the Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta by plating it up and sprinkling plenty of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. For extra flavor, crack some black pepper on top before digging in.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe

Garnishes

Brighten the dish with vibrant parsley for freshness and sprinkle more Parmesan if you love that nutty, salty boost. A few extra cracks of black pepper add a little bite that rounds out the flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. Garlic bread on the side is an inviting choice too, soaking up any extra sauce and making your meal feel even more comforting.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive dinner, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls garnished with edible flowers or a twist of lemon zest for brightness. Alternatively, try layering the pasta and beef mixture in a casserole dish and bake it with a cheese topping for a hearty twist on this recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making cold or reheated pasta just as tasty as freshly made.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if you want to prepare ahead. Place the pasta in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. Microwaving works too, but stirring halfway through cooking helps it heat evenly and maintain its creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork can be swapped in. Each brings a slightly different flavor and texture, but all work well with this recipe’s garlicky butter sauce.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe is mild by default, but adding the optional red pepper flakes will give it a gentle kick. You can adjust the amount depending on your spice preference or leave it out entirely for a more classic flavor.

What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

If you need a substitute, Pecorino Romano or asiago cheese provide similar salty, nutty flavors. Nutritional yeast is a great non-dairy option that adds cheesy depth as well.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Sure thing! Just swap the ground beef for a plant-based ground meat alternative or hearty vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant to keep that rich, meaty texture.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Be sure to cook the bowtie pasta al dente and drain it quickly. Tossing it immediately with a bit of olive oil or mixing it with the sauce right away will keep the pasta strands from clumping.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in pasta form. It’s straightforward to make, rich with flavor, and perfect for busy nights when you crave something satisfying without fuss. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved meal in your home just like it is in mine.

Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 30 reviews

A flavorful and comforting Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef, combining tender farfalle pasta with savory browned beef, aromatic garlic and onion, finished with parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner packed with rich flavors and satisfying textures.

Author: Maya
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Boiling, Sautéing
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Fat

Instructions

Cook the pasta: Boil the bowtie pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for about 5–6 minutes until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Add broth and seasoning: Stir in the beef broth, red pepper flakes if using, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly reduced, enhancing the flavor.
Combine with pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together thoroughly to coat the pasta with the flavorful beef mixture. Drizzle with a bit more olive oil if needed for added gloss and moisture.
Finish and serve: Plate the garlic butter bowtie pasta and sprinkle generously with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. Add extra cracked black pepper to taste before serving.

Notes

Use lean ground beef for a healthier option and less grease.
Red pepper flakes are optional; omit or adjust to taste based on heat preference.
Beef broth can be substituted with vegetable broth if preferred.
For a richer flavor, add a small knob of butter when combining pasta and beef mixture.
Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.