Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Beef: A Comforting and Flavorful One-Pan Dinner

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic butter bowtie pasta with beef is the ultimate weeknight comfort meal — hearty, rich, and full of flavor. Tender ground beef is simmered in a velvety garlic butter sauce, then tossed with perfectly cooked bowtie pasta for a satisfying dish that feels both cozy and indulgent. The buttery sauce clings beautifully to the pasta’s ridges, while the garlic infuses every bite with a deep, savory aroma. I once made this with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon juice, and it brought a subtle brightness that made the dish unforgettable. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or craving something warm and filling, this pasta delivers big flavor with minimal effort — all in under 30 minutes.

Print

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Bowtie pasta (farfalle) – The perfect pasta for creamy sauces. Its unique shape holds the garlic butter beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Ground beef – Lean ground beef adds richness and depth. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Butter – The base of the sauce, giving it a luxurious, silky texture and deep flavor.

Garlic – Fresh minced garlic brings the dish to life with its bold, aromatic essence.

Olive oil – Used with butter to prevent it from burning and to add a light fruity note to the sauce.

Beef broth – Enhances the meaty flavor and helps create a luscious sauce that coats the pasta.

Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty finish that ties the dish together.

Fresh parsley – Brings freshness and color, balancing the richness of the butter and beef.

Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning throughout the cooking process.

Crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – Add a touch of heat for those who enjoy a little spice.

Lemon juice (optional) – A small squeeze brightens the flavors and cuts through the richness of the butter.

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and half of the butter over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper, then drain excess fat if needed.

Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, stirring to coat the beef evenly in the garlic butter.

Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 3–4 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly reduce and thicken. Stir in the cooked bowtie pasta, tossing to coat well. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Finish with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Toss again until everything is well combined and glossy. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Serve immediately, topped with more Parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.

Essential Equipment

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, while cooking takes 20 minutes. Total time: approximately 30 minutes from start to finish.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to bring back the sauce’s creaminess. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months — thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations and Customizations

Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta – Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half for a richer, creamier texture.

Cheesy Beef Pasta – Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese for extra gooeyness.

Spicy Garlic Butter Pasta – Toss in chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a fiery twist.

Herb Lovers’ Pasta – Mix in fresh basil, thyme, or oregano for extra aroma and freshness.

Mushroom and Beef Bowtie Pasta – Add sautéed mushrooms to enhance the umami flavor.

Garlic Butter Veggie Pasta – Toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.

Lemon Garlic Beef Pasta – Increase the lemon juice and add zest for a bright, Mediterranean-style variation.

Ground Turkey Version – Swap beef for turkey or chicken for a leaner, lighter option.

Garlic Butter Alfredo Twist – Blend in a bit of cream cheese or Alfredo sauce for an indulgent, restaurant-style meal.

Gluten-Free Version – Use gluten-free bowtie pasta for a delicious alternative that works just as well.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes, penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine all work well with this sauce.

Can I make it without beef?

Definitely — it’s just as delicious with shrimp, chicken, or even as a vegetarian garlic butter pasta.

How do I keep the sauce from drying out?

Reserve some pasta water and add a splash while tossing the pasta to maintain creaminess.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best served fresh. Reheat gently with a little broth or butter before serving.

What kind of Parmesan works best?

Freshly grated Parmesan from a block melts more smoothly and has superior flavor.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely — broccoli, spinach, peas, or zucchini are great additions.

Can I make it spicy?

Yes, add red pepper flakes or a bit of cayenne for extra heat.

How do I make it extra creamy?

Add a few tablespoons of cream or cream cheese when mixing in the pasta.

Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but adjust additional salt to taste.

What’s the best side dish for this?

A crisp green salad or garlic bread complements this dish beautifully.

Conclusion

Garlic butter bowtie pasta with beef is a simple yet luxurious dish that brings together rich, comforting flavors in every bite. The tender beef, buttery garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta create a combination that’s both satisfying and elegant. It’s quick to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and sure to become a household favorite. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy family dinner or a quick meal after a long day, this recipe proves that a few basic ingredients can create something truly special — hearty, flavorful, and irresistibly good.

Looking for more tasty recipes? Visit our website for full details and follow us on Pinterest for daily food ideas to save and share