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Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Italian Sausage & Spinach

Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Italian Sausage & Spinach

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If you’re craving a rich, savory pasta dish that wraps you in comfort, this Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Italian Sausage & Spinach is your new go-to. It delivers everything we love in a hearty meal: tender pasta, golden-browned sausage, a velvety garlic butter sauce, and a pop of green from fresh spinach. One bowl and you’re hooked.

The magic happens in the balance of creamy and savory, with just a touch of spice from the Italian sausage. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet indulgent enough to impress guests. Plus, it comes together quickly without sacrificing bold flavor. If you love pasta dishes that feel like a warm hug, you’re going to want seconds (or thirds).


What Kind of Bowtie Pasta Should I Use?

For this recipe, traditional durum wheat bowtie pasta (farfalle) holds up best to the creamy garlic butter sauce and sausage. Its ridges and folds capture the sauce beautifully, making every bite satisfying. If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, opt for a sturdy rice or chickpea-based bowtie, but make sure not to overcook it as these alternatives can become mushy quickly.


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

Italian Sausage (Beef or Pork): This is where the dish builds its flavor. A spicy or sweet variety works depending on your preference.

Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle): The perfect shape for soaking up creamy sauce. It also adds a fun texture to the dish.

Fresh Spinach: Adds freshness, color, and a dose of nutrients that balances the richness of the sauce.

Garlic Cloves: Finely minced and sautéed in butter to create a fragrant, flavorful base.

Butter: The foundation of the sauce, it adds richness and helps mellow the garlic.

Heavy Cream: Essential for the creamy texture and silky mouthfeel of the sauce.

Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish that ties everything together.

Crumbled Feta (Optional): For a tangy contrast that cuts through the creaminess.

Salt & Pepper: Enhances all the flavors and balances the richness.

Paprika or Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): If you want a little extra warmth or heat.

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

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by removing the sausage from its casing and cooking it in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it into chunks as it browns. You want it nicely caramelized on the outside for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

While the sausage is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet with the browned sausage, reduce the heat to low and add butter. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic. Stir for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir continuously, letting it simmer gently. Add grated Parmesan and continue stirring until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and a dash of paprika or red pepper flakes.

Step 5: Add the Spinach

Toss in fresh spinach and stir until wilted into the sauce. This takes just a minute or two.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly in the sauce. Let it sit over low heat for 2–3 minutes to absorb all the flavors.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Top with crumbled feta cheese and a final sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!


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

This dish is best served immediately while the sauce is warm and velvety. For presentation, serve it in a shallow bowl with an extra dusting of Parmesan and a few fresh spinach leaves on top.

To store leftovers, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to revive the sauce.


What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta?

Garlic Bread

Crispy on the outside and soft in the middle, garlic bread is a classic pasta partner.

Caesar Salad

Its crunchy romaine, creamy dressing, and croutons provide a refreshing balance.

Roasted Broccoli

A great way to sneak in more veggies and add contrast to the creamy pasta.

Tomato Basil Soup

Light and zesty, it complements the richness of the pasta beautifully.

Balsamic Glazed Carrots

Sweet, tangy, and tender—a fun and colorful side.

Caprese Salad

Tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic bring fresh, vibrant flavor.

Lemon Herb Asparagus

Bright and citrusy asparagus pairs well with buttery sauces.


Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Italian Sausage & Spinach, try out some of these savory options:


Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe you added mushrooms, swapped the sausage, or drizzled on a balsamic glaze? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.


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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: Julia Walton
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta is the ultimate comfort food made fast. It features golden seared Italian sausage, tender farfalle pasta, and fresh spinach, all coated in a garlic-infused cream sauce and finished with melty Parmesan and tangy feta. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or indulgent food ideas, this easy recipe delivers big flavor in under 30 minutes. Perfect for dinner ideas, easy pasta recipes, or hearty meals with simple ingredients.


Ingredients

8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)

10 oz Italian beef sausage, sliced

3 cups fresh spinach

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Salt and black pepper to taste

1/2 cup reserved pasta water


Instructions

1. Bring salted water to a boil. Cook bowtie pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain the rest.

2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high. Sear sausage slices until browned on both sides, about 5–6 minutes. Set aside.

3. In the same skillet, reduce heat and melt butter. Add garlic and sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Pour in heavy cream. Stir, then add spinach and cook until wilted.

5. Stir in Parmesan and reserved pasta water. Let it simmer until creamy.

6. Return sausage to the skillet and add cooked pasta. Toss well to coat.

7. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Top with feta before serving.

Notes

Swap sausage with ground beef or chicken if needed.

Add a splash of broth if sauce thickens too much on reheating.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 610
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 38g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 26g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: creamy pasta, garlic butter, beef sausage pasta, quick pasta dinner, weeknight pasta

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