Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Italian Sausage & Spinach

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When comfort food meets gourmet flair, the result is this creamy garlic butter beef bowtie pasta with Italian sausage and spinach. It’s rich, hearty, and full of robust flavors that make dinner feel indulgent without the fuss. The creamy garlic sauce hugs each bowtie perfectly, while the Italian sausage infuses the dish with savory depth.

What makes this pasta special is its cozy yet elegant balance. The beef and sausage bring protein and richness, while spinach adds a vibrant contrast that not only lifts the flavors but also sneaks in a dose of greens. It’s a one-skillet miracle for busy nights or a comforting weekend dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Italian Sausage & Spinach

This pasta dish delivers everything you want in a comforting meal: creamy texture, bold flavor, and easy prep. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but delicious enough to serve to guests. Plus, the leftovers heat up beautifully for lunch the next day.

The combination of garlic butter, beef, and Italian sausage creates an irresistible base, while the spinach gives it just enough earthiness to feel balanced. Add in perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, and you’ve got a dish that checks every box for flavor and satisfaction.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Bowtie pasta, also known as farfalle, is the ideal choice for this recipe. Its shape holds sauce beautifully and provides the right amount of bite. If you don’t have bowtie pasta, penne or rotini will also work well. Just aim for a pasta with ridges or folds that can catch the creamy garlic butter sauce and sausage crumbles effortlessly.

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

This recipe leans into flavor-rich ingredients that harmonize beautifully. Every element plays a key role in crafting that creamy, savory goodness we crave in a hearty pasta dish. Here’s what you need to bring this comforting classic to life:

• Bowtie pasta: Holds onto the sauce perfectly and provides the ideal bite.
• Ground beef: Adds richness and makes the dish more filling.
• Italian sausage: Brings spice, flavor, and a bit of kick that elevates everything.
• Fresh spinach: Balances the richness with color and freshness.
• Butter: Forms the base of that luxurious garlic sauce.
• Garlic cloves: Infuses the dish with deep, savory aroma.
• Heavy cream: Adds smooth, creamy texture that ties the dish together.
• Parmesan cheese: Lends a nutty, salty depth and helps thicken the sauce.
• Salt and pepper: Enhances every bite with balanced seasoning.

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

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Meats

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until browned. Break them apart as they cook. Drain excess fat.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Create the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir continuously. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add the Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Combine

Toss in the fresh spinach and stir until wilted. Add the cooked pasta back to the skillet along with the browned meats. Mix well to coat everything in the sauce.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with an optional sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even a simple pasta dish can go sideways with a few missteps. One common error is overcooking the pasta. Bowtie pasta should be al dente to provide structure and soak up the creamy sauce without turning mushy. Another mistake is skimping on garlic or using pre-minced jarred garlic—fresh cloves deliver much better flavor.

Avoid pouring in all the cream at once on high heat. It can separate or curdle. Always simmer gently and add cheese gradually so the sauce stays smooth. Lastly, don’t forget to taste before serving. A pinch more salt or pepper can elevate the dish dramatically.

How to Serve and Store Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Italian Sausage & Spinach

This pasta is best served fresh off the stove, piping hot and sprinkled with a little extra Parmesan if you’re feeling indulgent. It feeds about 4 to 6 people generously, making it perfect for family dinner or small gatherings.

For leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.

What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta?

Garlic Bread

Classic, buttery garlic bread is always a hit with creamy pasta dishes. It’s great for soaking up extra sauce.

Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar salad offers a nice contrast to the richness of the pasta, with its tangy dressing and crunchy croutons.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts add color and texture to the plate.

Caprese Skewers

Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil on skewers are refreshing and easy to prep ahead.

Tomato Basil Soup

Start the meal with a light soup to set the stage for a hearty pasta.

Antipasto Platter

Serve up olives, marinated artichokes, cheeses, and cured meats to elevate the whole meal.

Sparkling Lemonade or Iced Tea

Something crisp and cold to drink helps cut through the creamy richness of the dish.

Chocolate Mousse or Tiramisu

End the meal with a decadent yet smooth dessert to keep the comfort food vibe going.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If this creamy garlic butter beef bowtie pasta made your night, you’ll definitely want to check out these other irresistible pasta favorites on Nina Dishes:

• Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach.
• Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach for a seafood twist on creamy pasta.
• Marry Me Chicken Pasta that’s rich, tangy, and oh-so comforting.
• Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts if you’re in the mood for something skillet-cooked and protein-forward.
• One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta when you’re craving comfort without extra cleanup.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swap in kale or mushrooms? Maybe added a pinch of chili flakes for heat?

I love hearing your twists and tweaks. Got a question or a tip? Drop it below and let’s cook smarter together.

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Conclusion

Creamy garlic butter beef bowtie pasta with Italian sausage and spinach is more than a weeknight meal—it’s a celebration of flavor and comfort. From the velvety sauce to the savory meats and vibrant greens, every bite delivers the kind of satisfaction that makes a dish unforgettable.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping for guests, this pasta earns a top spot on your dinner table.

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