Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef
Introduction
Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef is a cozy, satisfying meal that brings simple ingredients together for something truly comforting. Tender farfalle pasta soaks up a savory garlic butter sauce with perfectly seasoned ground beef, while fresh parsley and Parmesan add that finishing touch of freshness and richness. It’s the kind of meal you make on busy weeknights but love enough to serve for casual gatherings. Bowtie pasta adds a playful touch, making it a favorite with kids and adults alike. Easy, filling, and packed with flavor, this dish proves that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated.
Pro Tip
Reserve a bit of pasta cooking water before draining. If your pasta mixture looks a little dry when combining, adding a splash of that starchy water will help bind the sauce and coat the noodles beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: Pair with a crisp Caesar or arugula salad for a fresh, balanced meal.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up every last bit of the garlicky sauce.
- Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or Chianti complements the richness of the beef.
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
- Vegetarian Twist: Skip the ground beef and use sautéed mushrooms or lentils for a hearty meat-free alternative.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Stir shredded mozzarella or provolone into the hot pasta for an extra gooey, cheesy finish.
- Herb Swap: Try fresh basil or oregano in place of parsley for a different aromatic note.
Equipment Needed
- Large Pot: For boiling the pasta.
- Large Skillet: To cook the beef and combine the ingredients.
- Colander: For draining the cooked pasta.
- Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: For prepping the onions, garlic, and parsley.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the beef mixture and tossing the pasta.
Tips for Success
- Salt the Pasta Water Well: This is your first layer of flavor — don’t skip it.
- Don’t Overcook the Garlic: Garlic burns quickly; add it after onions have softened and cook for just 30 seconds.
- Drain Beef Properly: Excess fat can make the dish greasy. Drain it if necessary after browning.
- Taste Before Serving: Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Parmesan as needed before plating.
- Garnish Last: Sprinkle parsley and cheese right before serving to keep their flavors fresh and bright.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s fast, filling, and uses pantry staples you probably already have on hand. The flavors are familiar but vibrant, with garlic and Parmesan adding that irresistible savory punch. Plus, it’s easy to adapt based on what you have — making it one of those recipes you’ll turn to again and again when you need dinner in a hurry but don’t want to sacrifice flavor.
Recipe Card
Ingredients:
- 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup beef broth
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Boil bowtie pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Brown the Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon or spatula and cook until browned, about 5–6 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add Broth and Seasoning: Stir in beef broth, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss well to combine, adding reserved pasta water if needed for extra moisture.
- Finish and Serve: Plate the pasta, sprinkle with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley, and serve immediately with extra black pepper if desired.
Nutrition Table (Per Serving, Estimated)
| Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 520 | 28g | 42g | 27g | 3g | 3g | 580mg |
FAQ
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. You can cook the beef mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it, then cook the pasta fresh before serving.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water.
3. Can I freeze it?
You can freeze the cooked beef mixture separately, but freezing the pasta itself may cause it to lose texture. For best results, freeze only the sauce.
4. What’s a good substitute for beef broth?
You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth, or even water with an extra pinch of salt.
5. Is it possible to use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely. Penne, rotini, or shells would all work well with this recipe.
