Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef
If you’re looking for a quick, hearty, and flavor-packed dinner idea, this garlic butter bowtie pasta with ground beef is the answer. It’s the kind of recipe that balances simplicity with comfort, combining tender farfalle pasta, juicy ground beef, and a rich garlic butter sauce. Tossed together with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, this dish transforms pantry staples into a restaurant-worthy meal in just 30 minutes.
Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners, this pasta recipe delivers both taste and convenience. With a touch of heat from optional red pepper flakes and the savory richness of beef broth, it’s a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to bring this garlic butter bowtie pasta with ground beef to life:
- 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)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a splash of pasta water in case you want to thin out the sauce later.
2. Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant—be careful not to burn it.
3. 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 fully cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.
4. Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the beef broth and sprinkle in red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes. The broth will reduce slightly, intensifying the flavors.
5. Toss with Pasta
Add the drained bowtie pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together so the pasta is well coated with the savory garlic butter beef sauce. If the mixture feels a little dry, drizzle in more olive oil or a splash of reserved pasta water.
6. Garnish and Serve
Plate the pasta and finish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Add an extra crack of black pepper on top for a final flavor boost. Serve immediately while warm.
About the Recipe
Why You’ll Love It
This garlic butter bowtie pasta with ground beef isn’t just delicious—it’s also versatile and budget-friendly. The bowtie pasta holds onto the sauce beautifully, while the garlic butter adds a rich, savory depth that complements the beef.
Variations to Try
- Cheesy Twist – Stir in mozzarella or cream cheese for a creamier sauce.
- Vegetable Boost – Add mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Spicy Kick – Increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce.
- Protein Swap – Try ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage instead of beef.
Tips for Success
- Use 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and juiciness.
- Don’t skip salting the pasta water—it seasons the pasta from the inside out.
- If you want an extra glossy finish, add a tablespoon of butter when tossing the pasta.
- To avoid soggy pasta, always drain it just before adding it to the skillet.
Nutrition Insights
Each serving of this pasta delivers around 500 calories, with a balance of protein (35g), carbs (45g), and fats (20g). Thanks to the beef and Parmesan, it’s a protein-rich dish that keeps you full and satisfied.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta – Always aim for al dente; it will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the hot beef.
- Skipping the garlic step – Burnt garlic can turn bitter, so sauté just until fragrant.
- Not draining excess beef fat – Too much grease can make the dish heavy.
Conclusion
This garlic butter bowtie pasta with ground beef is the perfect recipe when you want something fast, filling, and full of flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and 30 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a satisfying meal that tastes like comfort in every bite.
Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this pasta is sure to impress. Try it tonight, and don’t forget to experiment with your own twists whether that’s extra cheese, more spice, or fresh veggies. Once you make it, this dish will quickly become a weeknight favorite in your home.
