Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef

When the aroma of garlic wafts through the kitchen, it often signals a delicious meal about to unfold. This Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef combines savory flavors and comforting textures, taking only about 30 minutes to prepare. It works wonderfully as a satisfying weeknight dinner, perfect for those evenings when you crave something hearty yet quick.

This recipe is ideal for families and busy individuals looking for a delicious meal without much fuss. You can make it anytime you want to treat yourself, and it stores well in the fridge, making it a great make-ahead option for your meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The bowtie pasta provides a unique texture that elevates the dish.
• Garlic and butter create a rich, aromatic sauce.
• Ground beef enhances the dish’s heartiness, making it truly filling.
• It comes together in less than 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.

What You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to create this satisfying meal.

For the Pasta

• 8 oz bowtie pasta

For the Beef

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Serving

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Unsalted butter allows for better flavor control.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use penne or fusilli pasta as alternatives.
• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
• Replace Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
• Use olive oil instead of butter for a lighter option.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps for a delicious meal.

Cook pasta

Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Melt butter

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.

Sauté garlic

Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Cook beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine pasta and beef

Once the beef is cooked through, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the garlic butter.

Stir in cheese

Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese.

Garnish and serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your meal!

How to Store It

Fridge: Up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: No, the pasta may become mushy.
Reheat: Microwave on medium for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Tips for Best Results

• Make sure not to overcook the garlic, as it can become bitter.
• Reserve a bit of pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.
• For extra flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Be sure to toss the pasta well to ensure even coating of the garlic butter.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
• Serve with crusty bread for some extra indulgence.
• Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.