If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm, comforting hug on a plate, the Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Spinach Recipe is about to become your new best friend. This recipe perfectly balances the rich, velvety texture of a garlic butter cream sauce with the hearty savoriness of Italian sausage and the fresh pop of spinach. The bowtie pasta brings a playful bite and carries all those luscious flavors beautifully, making every forkful an absolute delight. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, this pasta is a standout that’s surprisingly simple to whip up yet wonderfully indulgent to enjoy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of essential ingredients is all it takes to make this dish shine. Each element contributes something special—from the melt-in-your-mouth butter to the sharp tang of Parmesan—all working together to create a beautifully balanced flavor and texture profile.
- Bowtie Pasta (12 ounces): This playful pasta shape holds sauce perfectly and adds a fun texture.
- Italian Sausage (1 pound): Choose beef or pork, spicy or sweet, to customize the dish’s depth and heat.
- Garlic Cloves (4, minced): Fresh garlic brings aromatic warmth that’s essential for the sauce.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps create the luscious sauce base.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup): The secret to that irresistibly creamy texture everyone loves.
- Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated): Sharp and salty, it rounds out the flavors with a savory punch.
- Fresh Spinach (3 cups): Adds vibrant color and a mild earthy note, balancing the richness.
- Crumbled Feta (½ cup, optional): A tangy finish that brings extra flavor and texture contrast.
- Salt, Pepper, and Paprika or Red Pepper Flakes (to taste): These seasonings elevate the dish with layers of nuance and a hint of spice.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Spinach Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and crumbling your Italian sausage into it. Cook until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes. This step develops deep, savory flavors that form the backbone of your sauce—don’t rush it!
Step 2: Cook the Bowtie Pasta
While the sausage is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, usually 8 to 10 minutes. Don’t forget to reserve half a cup of the pasta water before draining; this will be crucial later to bring your sauce together.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic in Butter
Lower the heat under the sausage to medium-low, then add butter and your minced garlic cloves. Sauté for just a couple of minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and slightly golden. This step infuses the butter with garlic’s rich aroma, creating a perfect flavor base for your sauce.
Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and stir it into the buttery garlic and sausage mixture. Let this simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to thicken slightly and develop its creamy texture. This stage transforms the skillet into a decadent sauce that clings lovingly to every bite of pasta.
Step 5: Wilt the Spinach
Add the fresh spinach straight into the skillet and stir until it wilts, which should only take a minute or two. Fresh spinach lends a fresh, slightly earthy contrast and keeps the dish balanced and colorful.
Step 6: Incorporate Parmesan and Pasta Water
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and gradually add the reserved pasta water, stirring well. Continue simmering for a couple of minutes until the cheese melts and the sauce reaches that perfect silky consistency. The pasta water helps loosen the sauce if it gets too thick, while adding a subtle saltiness.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Toss the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet with the sauce, mixing thoroughly until every piece is coated with creamy goodness. Season with salt, pepper, and if you like a bit of heat, a pinch of paprika or red pepper flakes. This final seasoning step lets you tailor the flavor to your exact liking.
Step 8: Optional Feta Topping
Serve immediately topped with crumbled feta if desired. The feta adds a lovely tangy bite that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the sauce, giving your dish an effortless punch.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Spinach Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or crumbled feta is always a win, adding texture and an extra layer of flavor. You might also add chopped fresh parsley for a bright, herbaceous note that livens up the plate beautifully. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can lend a subtle richness, too.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp, fresh sides. Consider a tangy Caesar salad or roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussel sprouts to add crunch and freshness. Garlic bread or a warm baguette will help mop up every bit of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls topped with a sprig of basil or a lemon wedge for a zesty kick. If entertaining, try plating with a delicate sprinkle of chili flakes and microgreens for a restaurant-worthy presentation. Even a simple ramekin of extra Parmesan on the side invites guests to customize each bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since the sauce is creamy, you might want to separate the pasta and sauce if you can, then combine them again gently when reheating to keep the textures fresh and avoid clumping.
Freezing
This Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Spinach Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers if needed. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When freezing, leave out the fresh spinach and feta; it’s better to add those fresh when reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce seems too thick. Avoid the microwave for best results, or reheat in short bursts in the microwave, stirring between intervals to keep everything creamy and smooth.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta works beautifully here, feel free to swap in penne, rigatoni, or even fusilli. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it holds up well when mixed with the creamy sauce and sausage.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms and perhaps add some extra spinach or other veggies for bulk. The garlic butter cream sauce remains the star, so you won’t lose any of that comforting richness.
How spicy is the dish if I add red pepper flakes?
The heat from red pepper flakes is mild and can be easily adjusted to your taste. Start with a small pinch and add more if you want a noticeable kick. It adds a lovely contrast without overpowering the creamy flavors.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
You can cook the pasta and sausage ahead and store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply sauté the garlic and spinach and bring everything together with the cream and cheese for a quick finish that tastes fresh and vibrant.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese. Just keep in mind the sauce might be a little less rich and creamy, but it will still taste delicious!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Spinach Recipe—it manages to feel indulgent yet approachable, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or celebrating something special, this dish delivers big on comfort and flavor. I hope you give it a try and find it as irresistible as I do—trust me, it’s destined to be one of your favorite weeknight dinners or weekend treats!
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Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Spinach Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A rich and indulgent creamy garlic butter beef bowtie pasta with fresh spinach, Italian sausage, and a luscious Parmesan-infused sauce, perfect for a comforting family dinner in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta & Meat
- 12 ounces Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle) (Use gluten-free alternatives if desired.)
- 1 pound Italian Sausage (Beef or Pork) (Choose spicy or sweet based on preference.)
Sauce & Seasonings
- 4 cloves Garlic (Minced)
- 2 tablespoons Butter
- 1 cup Heavy Cream (Essential for creamy texture.)
- ½ cup Parmesan Cheese (Grated)
- 3 cups Fresh Spinach
- ½ cup Crumbled Feta (Optional)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Paprika or Red Pepper Flakes (Optional, to taste)
Instructions
- Cook the Italian Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble the Italian sausage and cook for about 5–6 minutes until it is well-browned and fully cooked through.
- Boil the Pasta: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.
- Sauté Garlic in Butter: Return the skillet with the cooked sausage to medium-low heat. Add the butter and minced garlic, sautéing for 1–2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Add Heavy Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the sausage and garlic mixture. Allow it to simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Incorporate Fresh Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and stir constantly until the spinach wilts, about 1–2 minutes.
- Mix in Cheese and Pasta Water: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and reserved pasta water into the sauce, stirring well to combine. Simmer for an additional 2 minutes until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional paprika or red pepper flakes to taste.
- Serve: Serve the creamy garlic butter beef bowtie pasta immediately, topped with crumbled feta cheese if desired for an extra layer of flavor.
Notes
- Use gluten-free pasta if you require a gluten-free meal.
- Choose spicy or sweet Italian sausage depending on your flavor preference.
- Reserve pasta water to help adjust sauce consistency and enhance creaminess.
- Do not overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness.
- Feta cheese topping is optional but adds a nice tang to complement the creamy sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
