Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta
Introduction
Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish combining tender farfalle pasta with savory ground beef and aromatic garlic. This simple yet satisfying meal comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients
- 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)
Instructions
- Step 1: Boil bowtie pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 3: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned, about 5–6 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Step 4: Stir in beef broth, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Step 5: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything well to coat. Drizzle with a little more olive oil if needed for gloss and moisture.
- Step 6: Remove from heat and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese before serving.
- Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms in step 2 for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Use turkey or chicken ground meat as a leaner alternative to beef.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Storage
Store leftover Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to maintain moisture.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute bowtie pasta with penne, rotini, or any pasta shape you prefer. Cooking times may vary slightly.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?
Be sure to salt your pasta water well and stir the pasta occasionally while cooking. After draining, toss the pasta with a little olive oil to keep the pieces separate.
PrintGarlic Butter Bowtie Pasta
This Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta is a delicious and hearty skillet meal combining tender bowtie pasta with savory ground beef, fragrant garlic, and onions all tossed in a buttery olive oil sauce. Enhanced with a splash of beef broth and finished with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley, this easy one-pan dish makes a perfect weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- Salt, for boiling water
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
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil the bowtie pasta in salted water according to the package directions until it is al dente. Then drain the pasta and set it aside while preparing the beef mixture.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the aromatics. Use a spatula to break the meat apart and cook it until browned, which takes about 5 to 6 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet if necessary.
- Add broth and seasoning: Pour in the beef broth, add the red pepper flakes if using, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for 3 to 4 minutes to reduce slightly and blend the flavors.
- Combine with pasta: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together well to coat the pasta with the beef mixture and sauce. Drizzle with a bit more olive oil if needed to add gloss and moisture.
- Finish and serve: Transfer the pasta to serving dishes and top each portion with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley for garnish. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- You can substitute beef broth with chicken or vegetable broth if preferred.
- Drain excess fat after browning the beef to reduce grease in the final dish.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- This dish can be paired nicely with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
Keywords: Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta, Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef, Easy Pasta Dinner, One-Pan Pasta Recipe, Skillet Pasta

