As I stirred the bubbling pan, the aroma of garlic and buttery goodness enveloped my kitchen, transforming it into a cozy haven. Nothing beats the comfort of a good meal, and that’s exactly what my Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef delivers. This quick recipe is a favorite for busy weeknights, bringing together tender pasta and savory ground beef glazed in rich garlic butter. Not only is it a family-friendly dish that pleases even the pickiest eaters, but it also comes together in a snap, allowing you to savor each bite without spending hours in the kitchen. Curious about how to whip up this heartwarming recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home? Let’s dive in! Why is Garlic Butter Pasta a Must-Try? Comfort Food: This Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef encapsulates the essence of comfort food, offering warmth and coziness in every bite. Quick and Simple: You’ll appreciate how effortless this dish is to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Flavor Explosion: The rich garlic butter coats the pasta beautifully, enhancing the savory ground beef for a delicious dish everyone will love. Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will find something to enjoy, making it a hit among kids and adults alike. Versatile Options: Feel free to customize it! You can add vegetables or switch up proteins for a fresh twist. Serve it alongside a salad or some warm garlic knots for a complete meal that’ll leave everyone satisfied! Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta Ingredients For the Pasta • Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle) – The star of the dish, offering a fun shape and texture; feel free to replace with penne or rotini for variety. For the Beef • Ground Beef (80/20 or 85/15) – Adds richness and protein; leaner beef options can be used, but might require a touch of olive oil for moisture. For the Aromatics • Olive Oil – Used for sautéing the beef and aromatics; unsalted butter can be a delicious alternative for extra flavor. • Onion (finely diced) – Provides natural sweetness and depth; yellow or white onions work best for this recipe. • Garlic (minced) – Essential for a punch of flavor; fresh is preferred, but garlic powder can be a quick substitute in a pinch. For the Broth and Seasoning • Beef Broth – Enhances the overall flavor of the sauce; vegetable broth serves as a lighter option if you prefer. • Red Pepper Flakes – Add warmth and spice; adjust the amount based on your personal heat preference. • Salt & Black Pepper – Key for balancing the flavors; season to taste for the best results. For the Garnish • Parmesan Cheese (grated) – The final touch, adding creaminess and umami to every bite; Pecorino Romano is a tasty alternative. • Fresh Parsley (chopped) – Brightens the dish with a pop of freshness; consider swapping in basil or chives for a different flavor profile. With these wholesome ingredients, your Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef will transform into a comforting, delicious meal that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Step 1: Cook Pasta Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil over high heat. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving a cup of the pasta water for later. Do not rinse the pasta, as you want to keep that lovely starchy coating. Step 2: Sauté Aromatics In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion, stirring frequently for about 4-5 minutes, until it becomes soft and lightly golden. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, ensuring the garlic becomes fragrant but doesn’t brown, as this can result in a bitter flavor. Step 3: Brown Beef Next, add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula into smaller crumbles. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is no longer pink and starts to brown. Allow some fond to develop at the bottom of the pan, as this will add depth of flavor to your Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta. Step 4: Deglaze Pan Once the beef is browned, carefully drain any excess fat from the skillet, leaving a bit for flavor. Pour in 1 cup of beef broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes, then let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it reduces slightly and thickens. Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce Now, add the cooked bowtie pasta directly into the skillet with the beef mixture. Toss everything together to coat the pasta with the savory sauce. If the dish seems a bit dry, drizzle in a bit of reserved pasta water or an extra splash of olive oil to enhance the creaminess of your Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef. Step 6: Serve Your comforting Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef is ready to shine! Plate the pasta and generously sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley on top. Finish with a touch of cracked black pepper for extra flavor, and enjoy the warm, inviting aromas that fill your kitchen! Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta • Perfect Pasta Cooking: Ensure you cook the bowtie pasta to al dente. Overcooking can lead to mushiness, ruining the dish’s texture. • Brown Beef Well: Don’t rush the browning process of the ground beef. Take your time to develop flavor from the fond, enhancing the overall taste of the Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef. • Season Gradually: Add salt and pepper incrementally while cooking, tasting as you go to achieve the perfect balance of flavors without overwhelming the dish. • Reserve Pasta Water: Always save a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water helps bind the sauce to the pasta, ensuring a creamy consistency. • Customize with Veggies: For added nutrition, toss in fresh spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini during the sautéing step for a colorful and healthy twist. Make Ahead Options Preparing Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef in advance is a fantastic way to save time on busy weeknights! You can cook the pasta and sauté the aromatics and beef up to 24 hours ahead. Simply let the mixture cool completely, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, reheat the beef mixture gently in a skillet, adding a splash of broth to keep it from drying out, and then incorporate the chilled pasta. This method not only preserves the flavor but also ensures that your hearty meal is just as delicious as when freshly made. With this make-ahead approach, dinner is ready to go in a flash! How to Store and Freeze Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s tightly sealed to keep the garlic butter flavor fresh and delightful. Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Be sure to label them for easy identification later. Reheating: To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth to restore creaminess. This keeps your Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef flavorful and moist! Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta Variations Dive into the world of possibilities with your Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef, allowing your taste buds to explore delightful twists! Pasta Swap: Substitute bowtie pasta with penne or rotini for a different shape and bite. Each pasta brings unique texture, merging beautifully with the savory sauce. Veggie Boost: Add diced bell peppers or zucchini for a pop of color and nutrition. These veggies not only enhance the visual appeal but also offer a crunchy counter to the creamy pasta. Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh basil or rosemary for a fragrant flavor boost. The herbal notes will liven up your dish, creating a beautiful aromatic experience with every serving. Spice It Up: Adjust the heat level by adding more or fewer red pepper flakes. This simple tweak can transform your dish from mild to fiery, catering to your spice preferences. Cheese Variety: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a bolder, saltier flavor. Each bite becomes a celebration of umami, elevating your pasta game to new heights. Creamy Touch: For a decadent twist, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese at the end. This rich addition will envelop the pasta and beef in blissfully creamy goodness. Ground Meat Alternatives: Switch out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Both choices maintain the dish’s heartiness while reducing fat content, perfect for a healthier meal. Plant-based Delight: Opt for a vegetarian version by using plant-based ground meat and vegetable broth. You won’t miss the meat with all the rich, savory flavors still beautifully intact. For more family-friendly ideas, check out my recipe for Casserole Ground Beef or explore the savory goodness of Korean Ground Beef. Enjoy experimenting! What to Serve with Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Elevate your meal experience with delightful sides that enhance the comforting flavors of your pasta dish. Garlic Knots: Soft and buttery, these garlic-infused delights offer a perfect bread companion for mopping up the delicious sauce. Fresh Green Salad: Crisp and refreshing, a simple salad with mixed greens and a lemon vinaigrette brings brightness to the rich pasta. Roasted Vegetables: Choose seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers. Their caramelized sweetness perfectly balances the savory beef. Cheesy Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and gooey on the inside, this indulgent side is sure to please, adding a delightful crunch with every bite. Steamed Broccoli: Tender green broccoli provides a nutritious element that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta and contributes vibrant color to the plate. Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine complements the richness of the beef while enhancing your dining experience with its fruity notes. Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with this airy dessert; its lightness perfectly follows the hearty pasta dish, satisfying your sweet tooth without being overly indulgent. Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right ripeness for my ingredients? Absolutely! When selecting onions, look for ones that are firm with a dry, papery skin. Avoid any that are soft or have dark spots. For garlic, seek out firm, plump bulbs without any sprouting. Ground beef should be bright red with minimal browning—this indicates freshness. How should I store leftover Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta? To keep your leftovers delicious, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s sealed tightly to preserve the garlic butter flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth for moisture. Can I freeze Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef? Yes! You can freeze portions of this delicious dish for up to 3 months. Just place it in freezer-safe bags or containers—don’t forget to label them with the date! When the craving hits, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop with a little beef broth to revive its creamy texture. What should I do if my pasta turns sticky or clumpy? If your pasta clumps together, it might be because it was left to sit without any oil or sauce. To avoid this, toss it with a little olive oil right after draining. And if you encounter this issue later, a quick splash of reserved pasta water while reheating will do the trick! Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Definitely! This recipe contains beef and dairy, making it unsuitable for vegetarians and those with lactose intolerance. If you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, consider using plant-based ground meat and dairy-free cheese alternatives for a delicious vegetarian version. Always check labels for allergies, especially with pre-packaged ingredients! How do I know when the ground beef is perfectly cooked? Look for a lovely brown color throughout, indicating it’s fully cooked! The beef should have no pink remaining. Cooking it on medium heat allows for even browning and flavor development, which is key to a tasty Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef. Don’t rush this step—it’s worth the wait! Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef: Comfort in Every Bite Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef is a quick, family-friendly dish that brings comfort and delicious flavors together for a satisfying meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: BeefCuisine: ItalianCalories: 600 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta8 oz Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle) Can substitute with penne or rotini.For the Beef1 lb Ground Beef (80/20 or 85/15) Leaner options can be used with added olive oil.For the Aromatics2 tbsp Olive Oil Unsalted butter can be used for extra flavor.1 medium Onion (finely diced) Yellow or white onions are best.3 cloves Garlic (minced) Fresh preferred; garlic powder can substitute.For the Broth and Seasoning1 cup Beef Broth Vegetable broth is a lighter option.1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes Adjust based on heat preference.Salt To taste.Black Pepper To taste.For the Garnish1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated) Pecorino Romano is a tasty alternative.2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped) Basil or chives can be substituted. Equipment large potSkilletwooden spoon Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsCook the bowtie pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions (8-10 minutes). Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion for 4-5 minutes until soft and golden, then add garlic for another minute.Add ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks for 6-8 minutes until browned.Drain excess fat, leaving some for flavor. Pour in the beef broth, scraping the fond from the bottom. Season and simmer for 2-3 minutes.Combine the cooked pasta with the beef mixture, adding reserved pasta water or more olive oil if needed for creaminess.Serve with grated Parmesan and chopped parsley on top, along with cracked black pepper. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 750mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg NotesFor best results, do not overcook the pasta. Savor the garlic and beef flavors for an optimal experience. Customize with vegetables for added nutrition. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
