Step-by-step instructions
Boil the Pasta: Begin by boiling the bowtie pasta in salted water according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks, and brown for about 5–6 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Create the Sauce: Stir in the beef broth, add red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat, and season with salt and black pepper. Allow it to simmer for about 3–4 minutes until slightly reduced.
Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything well to coat. If the mixture seems a bit dry, you can drizzle in a bit more olive oil for a glossy finish and enhanced moisture.
Serve and Garnish: Plate the pasta and generously sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. A few extra cracks of black pepper on top will enhance the flavors beautifully.
Best ways to enjoy it
To elevate your Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef experience, serve it alongside a crisp Caesar salad or garlic bread for an authentic Italian dinner vibe. A light wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, pairs wonderfully with the richness of the dish. For an added touch, consider a sprinkle of crushed red pepper or some sautéed vegetables for color and nutrition.
Storage and reheating tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, here’s how to keep them fresh and enjoyable:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or olive oil to keep it from drying out.
- You can freeze the prepared dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To serve, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Helpful cooking tips
- Cook the pasta al dente: This ensures it retains some bite and doesn’t get mushy when combined with the sauce.
- Use a high-quality olive oil: It makes a difference in the flavor of your garlic butter sauce.
- Don’t skip the parsley: It adds a fresh herbal note that brightens the entire dish.
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment with this recipe! You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or make it vegetarian by using mushrooms or lentils instead. Top it off with different cheeses or herbs to personalize it to your taste!
FAQs
1. What’s the prep time for this Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta?
The total prep and cooking time is around 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is delightful, any pasta shape you prefer will work well.
3. How do I make this dish gluten-free?
You can substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta varieties available in stores. Just ensure to check the cooking times as they may vary.
Enjoy your culinary journey with this Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef—where every plate brings comfort and satisfaction, one bowtie at a time!
