Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Italian Sausage & Spinach

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This Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Italian Sausage & Spinach is a rich and hearty meal that blends tender pasta, savory Italian sausage, and juicy beef chunks in a luscious garlic butter cream sauce. Wilted spinach adds a vibrant green touch, while tangy crumbles of feta or parmesan elevate each bite. It’s the kind of dinner that wraps you in cozy, comforting flavor—like a warm hug from the kitchen.

Perfect for when you want to impress with minimal effort, this pasta dish looks elegant but comes together quickly. It’s packed with bold, balanced flavors that make it equally fit for weeknight meals or hosting guests.


Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta

This dish combines bold flavors, creamy textures, and rustic Italian vibes into one satisfying skillet meal. The garlic butter base builds a rich, aromatic foundation, while the Italian sausage adds a spiced meatiness that complements the tender beef. Bowtie pasta (also known as farfalle) catches all that silky sauce in its creases, making every bite flavorful and saucy.

The spinach not only brings a pop of color but also balances the richness with freshness. If you’re a fan of creamy garlic pasta or anything with a meaty kick, this is going straight into your recipe rotation.


Can I Use a Different Meat or Pasta?

Definitely. While this recipe uses both beef chunks and Italian sausage for layered flavor, you can swap in ground beef, chicken sausage, or even omit one if preferred.

As for the pasta, bowtie is fantastic for texture, but penne, rigatoni, or even shells will hold up just as well. Make it your own based on what you have on hand—the sauce is versatile enough to play well with many combos.


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Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Italian Sausage & Spinach

Each ingredient in this pasta adds depth, texture, or creaminess. Here’s what you need:

  • Bowtie pasta (farfalle): Holds the creamy sauce well and adds a fun shape to the dish.
  • Beef stew meat or sirloin chunks: Adds rich, meaty flavor and hearty texture.
  • Italian sausage: Mild or spicy, it builds the base of savory flavor.
  • Butter: Forms the heart of the creamy garlic sauce.
  • Garlic cloves: Loads the sauce with bold aromatic flavor.
  • Heavy cream: The silky base that makes the sauce luxuriously smooth.
  • Parmesan or feta cheese: Adds sharpness and a salty bite to balance the richness.
  • Fresh spinach: Wilts into the sauce and adds vibrant color and nutrients.
  • Olive oil: Helps sear the meat and sausage to golden perfection.
  • Salt and pepper: For seasoning each layer.
  • Red pepper flakes (optional): A little heat for those who like it spicy.

How To Make the Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Italian Sausage & Spinach

This pasta dish is rich, quick, and satisfying. Follow these steps to bring it all together:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the bowtie pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Meats

In a large skillet, heat olive oil. Sear beef chunks on all sides until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside. In the same pan, cook Italian sausage until browned, crumbling it as it cooks.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Add butter and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, then pour in the heavy cream. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the beef and sausage to the skillet. Add cooked pasta and toss everything to coat in the sauce.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Cheese

Fold in the spinach and let it wilt. Stir in grated Parmesan or sprinkle feta over the top just before serving.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish with red pepper flakes, extra cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Serve hot.


Serving and Storing Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Italian Sausage & Spinach

This dish yields 4 to 6 generous portions, making it a solid weeknight dinner or hearty weekend treat. Serve it hot and fresh from the skillet with crusty bread on the side to soak up any leftover sauce. A sprinkle of parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper finishes it off beautifully.

For storing, let it cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.

It also freezes well! Portion it out, let it cool, then store for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen on low for a creamy texture revival.


What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta

To complement the richness of this creamy meat pasta, here are some well-paired sides:

1. Crusty Garlic Bread

Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their caramelized edges contrast nicely with the creamy pasta.

3. Caesar Salad

Crunchy and fresh with creamy dressing—a classic pasta partner.

4. Tomato Cucumber Salad

A cool and tangy side to balance the heat and richness.

5. Sautéed Zucchini

Simple and earthy with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

6. Baked Artichoke Dip

Serve as a starter or side with toasted baguette slices.

7. Lemon Roasted Asparagus

Adds a fresh, citrusy note to contrast the savory pasta.

8. Olive Tapenade Crostini

Salty and herby, it’s a flavorful pre-dinner bite.


Want More Meaty Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Italian Sausage & Spinach, check out these other hearty, flavor-forward favorites:

Each one brings a different twist on the creamy, cheesy, or meaty pasta experience.


Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this rich and creamy pasta recipe to your Pinterest dinner board for easy access next time you need a cozy meal.

Let me know in the comments if you spiced it up with extra sausage or swapped in kale for the spinach. I’m always inspired by how you make these dishes your own.

Find more crave-worthy dinners and comforting pasta creations on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest.


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Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Italian Sausage & Spinach

Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Italian Sausage & Spinach


  • Author: Nora
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4–6 servings

Description

This Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Italian Sausage & Spinach brings together rich beef, savory sausage, tender pasta, and a buttery garlic cream sauce—all in one skillet. The fresh spinach adds brightness while the cheese melts into every bite. Whether you’re craving a hearty weeknight dinner or planning a cozy weekend meal, this dish hits the mark with bold flavor and creamy comfort. Great for anyone looking for easy dinner ideas, creamy pasta recipes, or a one-pan meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.


Ingredients

12 ounces bowtie pasta

¾ pound beef stew meat or sirloin chunks

½ pound Italian sausage

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons butter

4 garlic cloves, minced

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup grated parmesan or crumbled feta

3 cups fresh spinach

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)


Instructions

1. Cook bowtie pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sear beef until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

3. Add Italian sausage to the same skillet and cook until browned, crumbling as it cooks.

4. Add butter and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

5. Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 3–5 minutes until thickened.

6. Return beef and sausage to the pan. Stir in cooked pasta and combine.

7. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Stir in cheese.

8. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Serve hot.

Notes

Swap spinach with kale or arugula for a different flavor and texture.

Use spicy Italian sausage to add a kick to the creamy base.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Skillet / One Pot
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1.5 cups
  • Calories: 740
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 870mg
  • Fat: 43g
  • Saturated Fat: 21g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 19g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 115mg

Keywords: beef pasta, creamy garlic pasta, Italian sausage pasta, dinner ideas, one skillet meal

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