It is 6pm and your family is hungry. You need a meal that is fast and satisfying. This Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta is the perfect solution for busy weeknights.
This dish delivers a warm, savory hug in every single bite. It is packed with protein to keep everyone full and happy. You can have this on the table in just 30 minutes.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is a total lifesaver for back-to-school season. It uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The combination of butter and garlic creates a rich, golden sauce effortlessly.
Kids love the fun bowtie shapes and the mild, savory flavor. It is a budget-friendly way to feed a hungry crowd. You get restaurant-quality comfort right in your own kitchen.
Simple Method
Making this dish is incredibly straightforward and stress-free. You simply boil the pasta while browning the beef in a skillet. The sauce comes together right in the same pan as the meat. Even if you are a beginner, you can do this with ease.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are fresh, simple, and easy to find at any grocery store.
- 12 oz bowtie pasta
- 1 lb 93% lean ground beef
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Step-by-Step
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until cooked through, then drain excess fat.
- Reduce heat to medium and add butter and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the cooked pasta and 1/2 cup of reserved pasta water to the skillet.
- Toss the mixture continuously until the pasta is evenly coated in the garlic butter sauce.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley immediately before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this pasta warm in large, shallow bowls. Pair it with a crisp green salad for a balanced family meal. A side of steamed broccoli also fits perfectly with these flavors.
For a cozy touch, serve with a slice of warm garlic bread. Set the table and enjoy a relaxing dinner with your favorite people. It is the ultimate comfort food for a chilly evening.
Storage & Reheating
This pasta makes for a fantastic next-day lunch for work or school. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for three days. To reheat, add a tiny splash of water or broth first.
Warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. The water helps the garlic butter sauce become creamy again. This recipe does not freeze well, so enjoy it fresh!
Recipe Tips
- Do not forget to reserve your pasta water before draining.
- Drain the ground beef well to keep the sauce from being greasy.
- Use fresh garlic instead of the jarred kind for better flavor.
- Salt your pasta water generously like the sea.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
- Stir the Parmesan in at the very end for the best texture.
- For a seasonal twist, add a handful of fresh autumn herbs.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap the ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Use gluten-free bowtie pasta to keep it allergy-friendly.
- Stir in two cups of fresh baby spinach for extra greens.
- Replace the parsley with fresh basil for a summer flair.
Common Questions
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, any short pasta like penne or rotini works great. The sauce clings well to shapes with ridges or folds.
How do I keep the pasta from being dry?
The secret is the reserved pasta water. It emulsifies with the butter to create a silky, glossy coating.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely, it stays delicious for several days. Just be sure to reheat it gently so the butter doesn’t separate.
I hope this cozy Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta makes your busy weeknights a little easier. It is a simple joy that always brings my family together. Happy cooking!
— Lidia
Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef
Ingredients
- 12 oz bowtie pasta
- 1 lb 93% lean ground beef
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic , minced
- 1/2 teaspoon sal t
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until cooked through, then drain excess fat.
- Reduce heat to medium and add butter and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the cooked pasta and 1/2 cup of reserved pasta water to the skillet.
- Toss the mixture continuously until the pasta is evenly coated in the garlic butter sauce.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley immediately before serving.
