Dinner

Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe

ByRafael Mansero November 27, 2025November 27, 2025

Introduction

Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of tender farfalle pasta, savory ground beef, and fragrant garlic butter makes every bite satisfying and delicious.

A close-up view of a white bowl filled with three layers of food: the base layer is made of small pieces of browned ground beef with a crumbly texture, the middle layer consists of yellow bowtie pasta with a slight sheen indicating sauce, and the top layer is sprinkled with grated cheese, bright green chopped parsley, and small flakes of red chili pepper spread evenly over the dish. The background shows a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent. Stir in the 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 necessary.
Step 4: Stir in the beef broth, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly.
Step 5: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together to coat evenly. Drizzle with a little more olive oil if desired for extra gloss and moisture.
Step 6: Serve the pasta plated, topped with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. Finish with extra cracked black pepper as preferred.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, add a pat of butter to the skillet when tossing the pasta.
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra vegetables and texture.
If you prefer less spice, omit the red pepper flakes or adjust to taste.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water to keep it moist.