Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that comes together in no time, then you’ve found it! This Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef recipe is one of those dishes that always warms my heart. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the combination of savory ground beef and aromatic garlic makes every bite delightful.

This recipe has become a family favorite in our home. It’s hearty enough to please even the hungriest appetites and easy to prepare, making it ideal for family gatherings or cozy dinners. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this delicious dish can come together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious dinner on the table.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves pasta, and this dish is no exception! Kids and adults alike will enjoy digging into this flavorful meal.
• Flexible ingredients: Use what you have on hand! Swap out proteins or add veggies to customize it to your liking.
• Comforting flavors: The garlic butter sauce brings a rich and warm taste that feels like a hug in a bowl.
• Make-ahead option: Prep it ahead of time, and reheat for an easy weeknight meal!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients makes cooking a breeze! For this Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef recipe, you’ll need just a few pantry staples and some fresh items.

For the Pasta

• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta

For the Meat Sauce

• 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)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Topping

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Variations

One of the best parts of cooking is how flexible recipes can be. Feel free to get creative with these ideas!

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version!
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and color.
• Change up the pasta: While bowtie is delightful, any pasta shape will work beautifully here—penne or rotini are great alternatives!
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream right before serving for an extra indulgent twist.

How to Make Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Start by boiling the bowtie pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. It’s crucial not to overcook it since it’ll continue cooking slightly when mixed with the sauce. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add the diced onion and cook for about 2–3 minutes until it’s translucent. This step builds flavor by releasing the sweetness from the onions. Then add minced garlic and sauté 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 to your skillet. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks until browned (about 5–6 minutes). If there’s excess fat after cooking, drain it off so your dish doesn’t get greasy; we want all that flavor without too much richness.

Step 4: Simmer with Broth

Next, stir in beef broth along with red pepper flakes (if you’re feeling spicy), salt, and black pepper. Let everything simmer for about 3–4 minutes. This helps meld all those delicious flavors together while slightly reducing the sauce.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add your cooked pasta back into the skillet with the meat sauce. Toss everything well to coat—this ensures each piece of pasta is enveloped in that wonderful garlic butter goodness! If you feel it’s dry, drizzle in a little more olive oil.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Plate up your pasta beautifully! Top it off with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a pop of color. Give each serving an extra crack of black pepper if you’d like—it’s all about those finishing touches!

There you have it—a comforting bowl of Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef that’s sure to become a cherished family favorite! Enjoy every bite!

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

Cooking can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh garlic, parsley, and quality ground beef make a noticeable difference in flavor. They enhance the overall taste and aroma of your dish, making it even more enjoyable.
• Don’t overcook the pasta – Cooking the bowtie pasta until just al dente ensures it retains a nice bite and texture when combined with the sauce. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and lose its appeal.
• Adjust the spice level – If you like more heat, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjusting spices allows you to tailor the dish to your family’s taste preferences.
• Reserve some pasta water – Keeping a cup of starchy pasta water before draining helps create a creamier sauce. You can add this water gradually to adjust the consistency of your dish if needed.
• Experiment with toppings – While Parmesan is classic, try adding crumbled feta or chopped sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor. Toppings personalize your dish and can introduce new tastes that intrigue your palate.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe

Serving this delicious pasta dish is all about presentation and complementing flavors. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more delightful!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh basil – A sprinkle of fresh basil adds bright flavor and color that pairs wonderfully with the garlic butter sauce.
• Extra Parmesan cheese – For cheese lovers, offering extra grated Parmesan at the table allows everyone to customize their serving.
• Lemon zest – A touch of lemon zest right before serving brings a refreshing brightness that balances the richness of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread – Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate. It’s an easy crowd-pleaser that complements Italian flavors beautifully.
• Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy Caesar dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a refreshing contrast to this hearty pasta dish. The salad adds a lightness that rounds out your meal perfectly.
• Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli or green beans lightly steamed add nutrition and color to your plate. Their mild flavor pairs well with the richness of the pasta without overpowering it.
• Roasted Asparagus – Drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with salt, roasted asparagus brings both elegance and earthy flavors to your dinner table alongside this satisfying pasta dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef will not only be delicious but also a lovely centerpiece for any family meal! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef recipe is perfect for meal prepping! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store and keep it fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Be sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Label the containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or olive oil if needed.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it 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! This dish stores well in the fridge for a few days and can be frozen for longer storage.

What variations can I try with Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe?

You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or swapping ground beef for turkey or a plant-based alternative.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While bowtie pasta is great, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.

Is there a vegetarian option for Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe?

Definitely! You can replace the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.

How spicy is this Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta?

The red pepper flakes add just a hint of heat, which you can adjust based on your taste preference. Feel free to omit them if you prefer a milder flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef recipe as much as I do! It’s not just about food; it’s about bringing family and friends together over a comforting meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or loved ones, this recipe is sure to bring smiles around the table. Happy cooking!