Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! This Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef recipe is a favorite in my home because it’s both satisfying and bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something hearty on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to bring everyone together for a comforting meal.

What makes this dish so special is its simplicity. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create a delightful meal that feels like a warm hug on your plate. Whether it’s a casual family gathering or a cozy dinner for two, this pasta dish never disappoints!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This meal comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Family-friendly: The savory flavor of ground beef and garlic appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile options: Customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins for a twist on the classic.
• Comfort food at its best: Rich and buttery, this pasta dish is sure to satisfy those hunger pangs.
• Make-ahead goodness: Leftovers heat up beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is half the fun! You’ll find that they’re simple and wholesome, perfect for creating this delicious Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef recipe.

• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• 1 lb ground beef
• 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)

Variations

One of the best things about this Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and color.
• Make it creamy: Stir in some heavy cream or a splash of milk at the end for an extra creamy sauce.
• Spice it up: For more heat, add diced jalapeños or use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef.

How to Make Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta

Start by boiling your bowtie pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Cooking it just right is key; you want that perfect texture that will hold up against the rich sauce. Once done, drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle in your olive oil. Add the finely diced onion and cook it for about 2–3 minutes until translucent. This step is essential as sautéing onions brings out their natural sweetness! Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Now it’s time to add the ground beef into your skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and let it cook until browned—about 5–6 minutes should do. Remember to drain any excess fat if necessary; we want all that delicious flavor without too much grease.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Pour in the beef broth along with red pepper flakes (if you’re feeling spicy), salt, and black pepper. Let everything simmer together for about 3–4 minutes until slightly reduced. This helps develop a deeper flavor profile that coats your pasta perfectly!

Step 5: Combine It All

Toss your cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet with the beef mixture. Give everything a good mix so that each piece of pasta gets coated in that glorious garlic butter sauce! If you feel like it needs more moisture, drizzle in a little extra olive oil.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Plate your delicious creation generously! Top off each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and sprinkled parsley—this adds not only flavor but also a lovely pop of color. Don’t forget an extra crack of black pepper on top!

And there you have it—a delightful Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef recipe that’s sure to become one of your go-to meals! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe

Cooking this delicious dish is straightforward, but a few pro tips can elevate your Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta to the next level!

• Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings out the best flavor in this dish. Avoid pre-minced options as they lack the vibrant taste that freshly minced garlic provides.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Cooking your bowtie pasta until it’s just al dente ensures it maintains a delightful texture that holds up well when tossed with the beef and sauce.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Taste your sauce before serving and feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes based on your preferences for heat.
• Save some pasta water: If your pasta seems a little dry after tossing it with the beef mixture, adding a splash of reserved pasta water can help loosen it up and enhance the overall flavor.
• Experiment with cheeses: While Parmesan is classic, trying other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or a sprinkle of mozzarella can add a fun twist to your dish!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe

Presenting this dish beautifully can make family dinners or gatherings extra special. Here are some ideas to serve it up right!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper on top enhances the flavors and adds an appealing touch.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce and complements the savory flavors of the pasta.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta, with crunchy romaine lettuce and creamy dressing balancing out the meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and nutrients, making for a wholesome plate.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli is not only healthy but also adds a beautiful green hue that pairs nicely with the pasta.

Enjoy serving this mouthwatering Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef recipe at your next family dinner! It’s sure to become a favorite in no time.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, home-cooked meals throughout the week without spending hours in the kitchen.

Storing Leftovers

• Let the pasta cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool fully.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water for moisture.
• Microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this dish ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. It’s great for meal prep!

What can I substitute for ground beef in this Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta recipe?

You can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a vegetarian alternative, consider using lentils or crumbled mushrooms instead.

How long does Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this dish will last about 3 days in the refrigerator.

Can I add vegetables to my Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in some sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll find that this Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef recipe becomes a beloved addition to your dinner rotation. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home. Enjoy making it as much as I do, and don’t hesitate to share your own twists on this classic dish! Happy cooking!