Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Italian Sausage & Spinach

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There’s something about the comforting aroma of garlic butter, the satisfying bite of al dente pasta, and the hearty richness of Italian sausage that always brings me back to the kitchen for more. This Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Italian Sausage & Spinach is one of those recipes I whipped up on a busy weeknight, hoping for something filling yet flavorful — and it quickly became a regular at the dinner table. The richness of the sauce coats every little fold of the bowtie pasta, while the seared sausage chunks bring a bold, savory bite in every forkful.

I love how the spinach balances everything out — a fresh, slightly earthy note that makes the dish feel a little lighter despite its creamy decadence. What really elevates this pasta, though, is the garlic butter base. It infuses the dish with deep, nutty flavor that lingers just enough to make you want another bowl. If you’re a fan of comfort food that still feels a bit sophisticated, this one is a must-try.

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

• It’s rich, creamy, and bursting with savory flavor.
• Perfect for weeknights or special occasions — ready in about 30 minutes.
• Uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
• Easily adaptable for different proteins or veggie add-ins.
• It tastes even better the next day — leftovers are a win!

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What Type of Sausage Works Best for Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Italian Sausage & Spinach?

I’ve made this dish with several different types of sausage, but I always come back to classic Italian sausage — either sweet or spicy depending on my mood. Sweet Italian sausage gives a mellow, herb-forward flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy garlic butter sauce. If you want a little heat, go for spicy Italian sausage for that extra kick of red pepper and fennel.

You can use sausage links and slice them into rounds after searing, or opt for bulk sausage and break it up while cooking — both work great. Want a leaner version? Chicken or turkey sausage also does the trick while still adding tons of flavor.

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Options for Substitutions

Sometimes I like to switch things up depending on what I have in the fridge, and this recipe handles substitutions really well:

• Pasta: Bowtie pasta (farfalle) holds the sauce beautifully, but penne, rigatoni, or rotini work just as well.
• Protein: Swap out the sausage for ground beef, chicken, or even shrimp for a different spin.
• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and your favorite dairy-free cream or cashew cream for a creamy, lactose-free alternative.
• Greens: If you’re out of spinach, kale or arugula are solid stand-ins that add a similar touch of color and texture.
• Cheese: Parmesan adds the perfect salty finish, but feel free to use Pecorino Romano or even a touch of mozzarella for added creaminess.

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

Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle)
Its fun shape isn’t just for looks — it holds onto the creamy garlic butter sauce perfectly, giving each bite the ideal texture.

Italian Sausage
This is the star protein, adding deep, savory flavor and a touch of spice depending on the variety you choose.

Ground Beef
It layers in richness and heartiness, making the dish extra satisfying and meaty.

Fresh Garlic
A non-negotiable. It forms the base of the sauce, infusing it with bold, aromatic flavor.

Unsalted Butter
It creates that luscious garlic butter base we all love — rich, silky, and comforting.

Heavy Cream
Adds body and velvety smoothness to the sauce, turning it into something you’ll want to spoon up on its own.

Fresh Spinach
A pop of green color and freshness that balances the heavier ingredients and adds nutrients without overpowering the dish.

Parmesan Cheese
Finely grated and stirred in for a salty, nutty boost that finishes the sauce perfectly.

Olive Oil
Used for sautéing and browning the meats, it adds depth and keeps everything from sticking to the pan.

Salt & Black Pepper
Essential for seasoning throughout the cooking process — taste and adjust as you go.

Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
If you like a little heat, just a pinch will do to give the sauce a subtle kick.

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

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Step 2: Brown the Sausage and Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a splash of olive oil. Add the Italian sausage (sliced or crumbled) and ground beef. Cook until fully browned and slightly crispy around the edges. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.

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Step 3: Sauté Garlic in Butter

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant — careful not to burn it.

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Step 4: Add Cream and Simmer

Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine with the garlic butter. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes to thicken slightly.

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Step 5: Add Spinach

Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. If the sauce seems too thick, splash in a little reserved pasta water to loosen it.

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Step 6: Bring It All Together

Return the cooked sausage and beef to the skillet, then toss in the cooked bowtie pasta. Stir everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce.

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Step 7: Finish with Cheese and Seasoning

Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, add salt and black pepper to taste, and toss again. For a little kick, add red pepper flakes if desired.

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Step 8: Serve Hot

Plate the pasta immediately and garnish with more Parmesan and a bit of fresh parsley if you like. Serve with warm bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

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How Long to Cook the Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Italian Sausage & Spinach

This dish comes together surprisingly quickly — perfect for a weeknight dinner. Here’s a general breakdown:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Pasta Cooking Time: 10–12 minutes
• Sausage & Beef Browning: 7–8 minutes
• Sauce & Assembly: 8–10 minutes

Total Cook Time: Around 30 minutes from start to finish — and every minute is worth it.

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Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Italian Sausage & Spinach

• Salt the pasta water well — it’s your first chance to season the pasta itself.
• Brown the meat properly — let the sausage and beef get golden and crispy on the edges for extra flavor.
• Don’t burn the garlic — cook it just until fragrant; burned garlic can turn bitter fast.
• Use reserved pasta water wisely — a splash can loosen the sauce and help it cling beautifully to the pasta.
• Fold in the spinach gently — it cooks down quickly and doesn’t need much heat.
• Grate your own Parmesan — pre-shredded cheese won’t melt as smoothly and can affect the sauce’s texture.
• Serve immediately — the creamy sauce is best hot and fresh off the stove.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the pasta: Since the pasta will simmer a bit in the sauce at the end, keep it al dente to avoid mushy results.
• Using low-fat cream: For the best texture and richness, stick with heavy cream — lighter alternatives may cause the sauce to break.
• Skipping the reserved pasta water: It’s your secret weapon for adjusting the sauce consistency and helping it coat the pasta.
• Crowding the pan when browning meat: If the pan’s too full, the meat steams instead of browns. Work in batches if needed.
• Adding spinach too early: It wilts fast — add it toward the end so it stays vibrant and doesn’t become soggy.
• Not seasoning as you go: Taste at each stage — especially after adding cream and cheese — and adjust the salt and pepper.
• Burning the garlic: It cooks quickly, so keep the heat moderate and stir often once it hits the butter.
• Forgetting to finish with cheese: Parmesan brings the sauce together and adds a final punch of flavor — don’t skip it!

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What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Italian Sausage & Spinach?

Garlic Bread

Crispy, buttery garlic bread is a no-brainer. It’s perfect for scooping up that extra sauce.

Simple Green Salad

A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness and balances the meal.

Roasted Vegetables

Try roasted Brussels sprouts, zucchini, or carrots for a hearty veggie side.

Caprese Salad

Tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic glaze add freshness and contrast beautifully with the creamy pasta.

A Glass of Red Wine

A medium-bodied red like Chianti or Merlot pairs perfectly with the sausage and creamy garlic notes.

Marinated Olives or Antipasto

For a fun Italian-inspired starter, offer a small plate of olives, artichokes, and roasted red peppers.

Creamy Tomato Soup

Sounds unusual, but the pairing works — the soup’s acidity complements the rich pasta beautifully.

Lemon-Garlic Broccolini

A zesty, slightly bitter veggie side like broccolini helps lighten the whole meal.

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Storage Instructions

If you end up with leftovers (lucky you!), this pasta stores really well and makes for a great next-day lunch.

• Refrigerate: Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of cream or milk while reheating to bring the sauce back to life.
• Freezing: You can freeze it, but note that creamy sauces sometimes separate after thawing. If you do freeze it, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, and reheat slowly with a touch of cream or butter stirred in.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per Serving — Approx. 1 ½ cups)

• Calories: 640
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Cholesterol: 115mg
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 850mg

Keep in mind these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don’t have bowtie pasta?

No problem! You can use penne, rotini, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Just choose something that holds sauce well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep it a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce before serving.

Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?

Absolutely. Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a plant-based alternative, and use chicken or turkey sausage instead of pork.

Can I skip the beef and just use sausage?

Yes! The beef adds extra richness, but the Italian sausage alone is flavorful enough to carry the dish.

Will frozen spinach work?

Yes, just thaw it and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before adding it to the sauce.

What herbs would go well in this dish?

Fresh basil, parsley, or even a pinch of oregano or thyme work beautifully with the garlic and sausage.

How do I make this spicier?

Use hot Italian sausage and add more red pepper flakes to the sauce — you can even drizzle a little chili oil on top when serving.

Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?

You can, but I highly recommend grating your own. It melts better and gives the sauce a silkier finish.

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Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Italian Sausage & Spinach is the kind of dish that hits every craving — savory, creamy, comforting, and just a little indulgent. It’s packed with flavor, but easy enough to pull off on a weeknight. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Once you try it, don’t be surprised if it lands a regular spot in your dinner rotation.

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