There’s something magical about the smell of garlic sizzling in butter. It instantly transports me back to my Nonna’s kitchen, where Sunday dinners were a time for laughter, overflowing plates, and boundless love. She taught me that the simplest ingredients, treated
with care and a generous dash of passion, could create something truly extraordinary. This Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Beef Perfection is my modern take on that timeless comfort. It’s a dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight, yet special enough to impress guests. Tender beef, rich garlic butter sauce, and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta – it’s a flavor explosion that will warm you from the inside out.Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let’s be honest – who doesn’t love pasta? This isn’t your average pasta dish, though. Here’s what makes this recipe truly special:
- Easy to Make: Seriously. It’s ready in under 30 minutes and requires minimal effort.
- Big Flavor Impact: The garlic butter sauce is decadent and seriously addictive. The beef adds a savory richness.
- Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a dish that appeals to all ages and tastes. Even picky eaters tend to love it!
- Versatile: Easily adaptable to your preferences (more on that in the variations section!).
- Comfort Food at its Finest: It’s pure, unadulterated comfort, perfect for a chilly evening or when you just need a hug in a bowl.
The Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather everything! I’ve broken it down to make sure you have everything ready to go.
For the Beef:
- 1 pound Beef Sirloin Steak (or Ribeye, New York Strip – your favorite cut!)
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
- ½ teaspoon Paprika
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 1 pound Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle)
- ½ cup (1 stick) Unsalted Butter
- 6-8 cloves Garlic, minced (don’t be shy!)
- ¼ cup Dry White Wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio – optional but recommended)
- ½ cup Reserved Pasta Water
- ¼ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese, plus extra for serving
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Let’s Get Cooking: The Step-by-Step Guide
Okay, let’s get into the delicious details. This is broken down into simple steps, so you can feel confident tackling it.
Step 1: Prep the Beef
- Pat the beef steak dry with paper towels. This helps it get a beautiful sear.
- In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Rub the spice mixture all over the beef.
Step 2: Sear the Beef to Perfection
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the beef to the hot skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer depending on your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer for best results! 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium.
- Once cooked, remove the beef from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 10 minutes. This is crucial – it allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
- While the beef is resting, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (slightly firm to the bite).
- Before draining the pasta, reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water. This starchy water is liquid gold – it helps create a silky, emulsified sauce. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet you used to cook the beef (don’t wipe it clean – those browned bits are flavor!), melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and just starting to turn golden. Be careful not to burn it! Burnt garlic is bitter.
- If using, pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate.
- Stir in the reserved pasta water. This will create a lovely, creamy consistency.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the garlic butter sauce.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Add the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
- Slice the rested beef against the grain into thin strips. This will make it easier to chew and more tender.
- Add the sliced beef to the pasta and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Tips, Variations & Serving Suggestions
Let’s build on this foundational recipe! Here are some ideas to customize it to your liking.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a little heat.
- Vegetable Boost: Sautee some chopped spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes with the garlic for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Herb Heaven: Experiment with different fresh herbs – basil, oregano, or even chives would all be delicious.
- Creamy Dreamy: For a richer sauce, stir in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream at the end.
- Different Protein: While this recipe shines with beef, you could also use chicken, shrimp, or even Italian sausage. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Serving Suggestions: A simple green salad and some crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce make the perfect accompaniment. A glass of the same white wine you used in the sauce is also a great pairing!
(Optional) Nutritional Information (Estimated – will vary based on ingredients used)
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 650-750
- Protein: 35-45g
- Fat: 35-45g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
Please note: These are estimates only and may vary significantly based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Ready to Indulge?
This Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Beef Perfection is a truly rewarding dish. It proves that you don’t need complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients to create something extraordinary. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. I hope you enjoy this little piece of my Nonna’s kitchen, brought to you with love! So, roll up your sleeves, put on some music, and get cooking – you deserve a delicious, comforting meal!
