Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef: A Comforting and Flavorful Meal

Introduction

Nothing beats a hearty, comforting pasta dish after a long day. Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef is a perfect blend of tender bowtie pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich garlic butter sauce that delivers big flavor without complicated steps. This recipe combines simple, pantry-friendly ingredients into a meal that’s satisfying enough for dinner yet easy enough for a busy weeknight.

Bowtie (farfalle) pasta is not only visually appealing with its cute “butterfly” shape, but it also holds sauces beautifully, allowing every bite to be flavorful and well-coated. Paired with seasoned ground beef, aromatic garlic, and a touch of red pepper flakes for optional heat, this dish strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and a quick, practical dinner.

In this article, we’ll explore every detail of the recipe: ingredient insights, step-by-step instructions, expert tips, variations, serving suggestions, and frequently asked questions. By the end, you’ll be able to create a pasta dish that’s rich, flavorful, and sure to impress family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Hearty and Filling: Bowtie pasta and ground beef provide a satisfying, protein-packed meal.
• Rich, Flavorful Sauce: Garlic butter and Parmesan bring depth and indulgence without being heavy.
• Customizable: Easily adjust spice levels or add vegetables to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike enjoy the tender pasta and savory beef.

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

Before diving into the full ingredient list, let’s break down why each component matters:

• Bowtie (Farfalle) Pasta (12 oz): Its unique shape captures sauce well, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• Ground Beef (1 lb): Provides the savory, hearty base of the dish. Opt for lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) for minimal grease.
• Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Enhances flavor and helps sauté garlic and onions without burning.
• Onion (1 small, finely diced): Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): The star ingredient, bringing aroma and rich, savory notes.
• Beef Broth (1/2 cup): Adds moisture and flavor, creating a slightly saucy texture that coats the pasta.
• Red Pepper Flakes (1/4 tsp, optional): Provides a gentle kick for those who enjoy some heat.
• Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, for topping): Adds a nutty, salty flavor and creamy finish.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.
• Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp, chopped, for garnish): Provides a fresh, vibrant touch and visual appeal.

Full Ingredient List

Pasta:

• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta

Ground Beef:

• 1 lb ground beef

Other Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
• Drain, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water, and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

• Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the ground beef, breaking it up into small pieces with a spatula.
• Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
• Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes.
• Remove excess grease if necessary, then transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

• In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

• Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet.
• Pour in 1/2 cup beef broth and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (if using).
• Stir to combine and allow the mixture to simmer for 2–3 minutes.
• Add the cooked bowtie pasta and toss to coat evenly.
• If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan and Parsley

• Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta.
• Toss gently until the cheese melts and coats the pasta evenly.
• Garnish with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

• Serve hot as a main course. Pair with a crisp side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta

1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Bowtie pasta should be al dente to maintain texture and hold sauce better.
2. Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a more vibrant flavor than pre-minced or powdered garlic.
3. Adjust Spice: Red pepper flakes are optional—skip them for a mild version or increase for heat lovers.
4. Save Pasta Water: Adding a bit of reserved pasta water can help loosen the sauce if it’s too thick.
5. Cheese Matters: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and has more flavor than pre-grated varieties.

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Toss in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
• Creamy Version: Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream or cream cheese for a richer sauce.
• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the skillet for heat.
• Different Proteins: Replace ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Cheese Mix: Use mozzarella or provolone along with Parmesan for a gooey, cheesy finish.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
• Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping into the sauce and adding extra flavor.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted broccoli, carrots, or asparagus for a complete meal.
• Wine Pairing: A medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or a crisp white like Pinot Grigio pairs well with this dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water to restore creaminess.
• Freezing: While pasta can be frozen, the texture may slightly change. Freeze in portions and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per Serving, 1/4 recipe)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 26 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sodium: 620 mg

Values may vary depending on the exact pasta and beef used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Penne, rotini, or rigatoni work well if you don’t have bowtie pasta.

Q2: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely. Substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, tofu, or a plant-based meat alternative.

Q3: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes. Cook the pasta and beef mixture, then refrigerate. Reheat gently before serving, adding a splash of broth to refresh the sauce.

Q4: How can I make it creamier?
Stir in 1/4–1/2 cup heavy cream, half-and-half, or cream cheese at the end of cooking.

Q5: Can I use pre-minced garlic?
Yes, but fresh garlic delivers a more vibrant flavor. Use about 1 teaspoon of pre-minced garlic to replace 3 cloves.

Q6: How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?
Toss the drained pasta with a small amount of olive oil before adding it to the skillet.

Q7: Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, but the pasta may become slightly softer upon thawing. Freeze in individual portions and reheat gently.

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Conclusion

Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that works for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Its combination of tender pasta, savory beef, aromatic garlic, and Parmesan cheese creates a dish that’s comforting and indulgent without being complicated.

With tips for customization, make-ahead strategies, and easy variations, this recipe is both versatile and reliable—a dish that will become a staple in your recipe collection. Serve it warm, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and heartiness in every bite.