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Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe

4.6 from 51 reviews

A comforting and flavorful Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef, combining tender bowtie pasta tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce with savory ground beef and aromatic herbs. Perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner that’s quick to prepare and packed with satisfying flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

  • 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta

Ground Beef Mixture:

  • 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

Toppings and Garnish:

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.
  2. Sauté onion and garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Cook the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
  4. Add beef broth and seasonings: Stir in the beef broth, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly and allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Combine pasta and beef mixture: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet with the ground beef mixture. Toss to combine, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce and coat the pasta evenly.
  6. Finish with Parmesan and parsley: Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if it becomes too thick.
  • For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine with the beef broth.
  • Red pepper flakes are optional; adjust heat level to your preference.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best taste and texture.
  • This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables.

Keywords: garlic butter pasta, bowtie pasta recipe, ground beef pasta, easy weeknight dinner, Italian comfort food