. Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Beef Perfection – esrecipes

Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Beef Perfection

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The aroma of sizzling garlic and butter… it’s a memory etched into my childhood. My Nonna would make a simple pasta dish just like this on chilly evenings. She’d hum Italian songs, her hands moving quickly, effortlessly transforming humble ingredients into pur

e comfort. This isn’t just any pasta recipe; it’s a hug on a plate. Today, I’m sharing my version – Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Beef Perfection – a dish that honors that tradition while elevating it with juicy, perfectly cooked beef. Get ready for a weeknight dinner that feels utterly indulgent and surprisingly easy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let’s be honest, everyone loves pasta. But this dish offers a little something extra. Here’s why you’ll reach for this recipe again and again:

  • Flavor Explosion: The combination of buttery garlic, savory beef, and the delightful texture of bowtie pasta is simply divine.
  • Speedy & Simple: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is universally loved, from kids to adults.
  • Customizable: We’ll explore easy variations to suit your taste and what’s in your pantry.
  • Serious Comfort Food: It’s a warm, cozy, and satisfying meal that feeds the soul.

The Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to create this fantastic Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Beef Perfection. Don’t worry, it’s mostly pantry staples!

For the Beef:

  • 1 lb Ground Beef (80/20 blend is ideal for flavor)
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/4 tsp Onion Powder

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

  • 1 lb Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle)
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) Unsalted Butter
  • 6 cloves Garlic, minced (don’t skimp!)
  • 1/4 cup Chicken Broth (low sodium)
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese, plus extra for serving
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed is best!)

Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions

This recipe is designed to be straightforward and fun. Let’s break it down!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Seriously, salt it well – it flavors the pasta itself!
  • Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes. We want it al dente – firm to the bite.
  • Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. This is liquid gold for your sauce! Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

  • While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  • Add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it up into smaller pieces.
  • Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  • Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Sauce

  • Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the skillet with the cooked beef. Let it melt completely.
  • Add the minced garlic to the melted butter. Cook for about a minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Burning it will make it bitter.
  • Pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly reduce.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

  • Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet with the beef and garlic butter sauce. Toss to coat thoroughly.
  • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice.
  • If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

  • Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley.
  • Serve immediately, with extra Parmesan cheese on the side.

Tips, Variations, and Serving Suggestions

Let’s customize your Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Beef Perfection!

Tips for Perfection:

  • Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente is key for a good texture.
  • Garlic is Your Friend: Feel free to use more garlic, if you love it!
  • Taste as You Go: Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
  • Pasta Water is Important: Don’t skip reserving the pasta water! It adds starch and helps the sauce cling to the pasta.

Delicious Variations:

  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a little heat.
  • Veggie Boost: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the beef.
  • Creamy Dreamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half for an even richer sauce.
  • Herby Goodness: Add fresh oregano, basil, or thyme along with the parsley.
  • Different Protein: Substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage for the ground beef.
  • Cheese Lovers: Add a sprinkle of mozzarella or provolone cheese along with the parmesan.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the pasta.
  • Garlic Bread: Because, why not?
  • Steamed Broccoli: Adds a healthy and vibrant touch to the meal.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Serving Size: 1 cup

  • Calories: 550-650
  • Protein: 30-40g
  • Fat: 25-35g
  • Carbohydrates: 50-60g

Please note: This is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Ready to Make Some Magic?

There you have it – Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Beef Perfection! A comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t be intimidated by the “Perfect” in the name – it’s simpler than you think. Give this recipe a try tonight, and let me know how it turns out. I’m confident you’ll love it as much as I do! Happy cooking!

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