Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe

This Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef recipe is a deliciously satisfying dish that perfectly marries tender bowtie pasta with savory ground beef and aromatic garlic. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe stands out for its rich flavors and ease of preparation, making it a favorite for families and pasta lovers alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of garlic butter and beef creates a mouthwatering taste that will impress everyone at your table.
• Versatile Meal: This recipe can be easily customized by adding vegetables or adjusting the spice levels to suit your family’s preferences.
• Kid-Friendly: The fun shape of bowtie pasta appeals to children, making it an easy choice for picky eaters.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein from the ground beef, this meal will keep everyone satisfied.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin cooking, gather a few essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Spatula
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly; a must-have for any pasta dish.
• Skillet: Perfect for cooking the ground beef and combining flavors effectively.
• Spatula: Helps in breaking apart the meat as it cooks, ensuring even browning.
• Colander: Ideal for draining the cooked pasta quickly while retaining its shape.

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Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta

For the 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

For Topping

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil bowtie pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

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: Brown the Ground Beef

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: Add Broth and Simmer

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: Combine Pasta and Beef Mixture

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything well to coat. Drizzle with a little more olive oil if needed for gloss and moisture.

Step 6: Serve with Toppings

Plate the pasta, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. Add extra cracked black pepper to finish.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe

Serving Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef is easy, and there are many delicious ways to enhance the experience. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more enjoyable.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with a tangy dressing and croutons for added crunch.
• Arugula Salad: Lightly dressed arugula topped with shaved Parmesan and pine nuts for a peppery flavor.

Add Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter; perfect for soaking up the sauce.
• Focaccia: Soft, flavorful bread that complements the richness of the pasta dish.

Top it Off

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle additional chopped parsley or basil on top for freshness and color.
• Extra Cheese: Offer grated Parmesan or mozzarella on the side for cheese lovers to add more flavor.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe

To ensure your Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef turns out perfectly, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will elevate the flavor of your dish significantly.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This prevents overcooking and keeps the pasta firm, enhancing texture.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook; adding salt and pepper gradually helps achieve the desired flavor balance.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the pasta to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together nicely.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe

Complementing your Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef can elevate your meal. Here are some great side dishes to consider.

1. Steamed Vegetables: A mix of broccoli, carrots, and green beans adds color and nutrition.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts drizzled with balsamic glaze create a delightful contrast.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil provides a refreshing side.
4. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with pasta.
5. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, marinated artichokes, and roasted red peppers enhances Italian flair.
6. Creamy Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the richness of the pasta dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef, some common mistakes can impact the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Not salting the pasta water: This mistake can lead to bland pasta. Always salt your boiling water to enhance the pasta’s flavor.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking bowtie pasta too long will make it mushy. Follow package instructions for al dente texture.
• Using low-quality ground beef: Poor quality beef can affect taste. Choose lean ground beef for a better flavor profile.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds brightness. Don’t skip this step; it elevates the dish significantly.
• Not letting the sauce simmer: Skipping this step may leave your sauce watery. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes for depth of flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2–3 months.
• Divide into individual portions for easy thawing and reheating.

Reheating Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of meat can I use instead of ground beef?

You can substitute ground turkey, lamb, or chicken if you prefer different flavors or lighter options.

Can I make this Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian version.

How do I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Consider adding spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini during the cooking process. They will cook quickly and add nutrition.

Can I prepare Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can cook it ahead and store it in the refrigerator or freeze it for later use. Just follow storage instructions.

What toppings go well with Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef?

In addition to Parmesan cheese and parsley, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat or toasted pine nuts for texture.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef recipe is not only delicious but also easy to customize based on your preferences. Add your favorite vegetables or switch up the type of meat used. It’s a versatile dish that promises satisfaction for any dinner table!