Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Italian Sausage & Spinach

Introduction: A Bowl of Comfort for Every Occasion

There are some recipes that instantly wrap you in comfort the moment you take a bite, and Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Italian Sausage & Spinach is one of them. Whether you’re looking for a hearty family dinner after a long day, a dish to impress guests at a gathering, or a comforting weekend indulgence, this pasta has it all.

Inspired by the flavors of classic Italian-American comfort food, this recipe balances richness and freshness. The creamy garlic butter sauce, seasoned ground beef, savory Italian sausage, and tender spinach all come together to create a meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Imagine twirling a forkful of bowtie pasta coated in silky, cheesy sauce, each bite bursting with layers of flavor—that’s the experience this recipe promises.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Butter Pasta

This pasta isn’t just another weeknight meal—it’s the kind of dish that turns dinner into an occasion. Here’s why it will become a staple in your home:

Flavor-packed layers – Between the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and Italian sausage, every bite delivers a satisfying kick of flavor.
Rich, creamy sauce – The combination of butter, cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella creates a velvety sauce that clings beautifully to bowtie pasta.
Balanced with greens – The addition of spinach not only boosts the nutrition but also adds color and freshness.
Family-friendly – Kids love the cheesy goodness, and adults appreciate the complexity of flavors.
Perfect for leftovers – Like many pasta dishes, it tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld.

This is comfort food done right—bold, filling, and perfect for sharing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather your ingredients before you begin. This recipe is generous and serves a crowd, but you can always scale it down or freeze portions for later.

1 pound bowtie pasta (also known as farfalle)
1 pound ground beef
1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
1 large onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
10 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups milk
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

2. Brown the Meats

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking them apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess grease.

3. Build the Flavor Base

Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Add the spinach and cook until warmed through.

4. Make the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux. Slowly whisk in the milk and chicken broth, ensuring no lumps remain. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5–7 minutes.

5. Enrich the Sauce

Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheese. Season with Cajun seasoning, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.

6. Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta, the meat mixture, and the spinach to the sauce. Toss until everything is evenly coated in the creamy, cheesy goodness.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the pasta into bowls and serve immediately. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.

Tips for Perfect Pasta Every Time

Don’t overcook the pasta – Bowtie pasta should be al dente so it holds up against the creamy sauce.
Drain the spinach well – Excess water from spinach can thin the sauce. Use a paper towel or cheesecloth to squeeze it dry.
Balance the seasoning – Cajun seasoning adds spice, so adjust depending on your heat preference.
Use freshly grated cheese – Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Let it rest before serving – Allow the pasta to sit for 5 minutes after mixing so the sauce thickens and coats every bite.

Variations to Try

This pasta recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit your tastes:

Make it spicy – Use hot Italian sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Add mushrooms – Sautéed mushrooms add a savory, earthy depth to the dish.
Go lighter – Swap heavy cream for half-and-half, or reduce the cheese slightly for a lighter version.
Make it gluten-free – Use gluten-free pasta and substitute flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free blend.
Vegetarian twist – Omit the meat and add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy garlic butter beef bowtie pasta is hearty on its own, but pairing it with sides makes it even more memorable:

Garlic bread – Perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.
Side salad – A crisp Caesar or garden salad balances the richness.
Roasted vegetables – Try roasted broccoli, asparagus, or carrots for added nutrition.
Red wine – A glass of Chianti, Merlot, or Cabernet Sauvignon complements the richness beautifully.

Storing and Reheating

This pasta reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prep.

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Microwave in intervals, stirring occasionally.

Nutritional Benefits

While this pasta is indulgent, it also has some surprising nutritional perks:

Protein-rich – With ground beef, sausage, and cheese, this dish keeps you full and energized.
Spinach boost – Loaded with iron, vitamins A and C, and fiber.
Calcium power – Cheese and milk provide bone-strengthening calcium.
Carbohydrate energy – Pasta gives your body the fuel it needs for busy days.

Why This Recipe Works

The magic of this recipe lies in the combination of flavors and textures:

Garlic butter base – Rich and aromatic, it sets the stage for the creamy sauce.
Cajun seasoning – Adds warmth and depth without overpowering the dish.
Spinach – Balances the richness with freshness and color.
Cheese blend – Parmesan adds sharpness, mozzarella delivers stretchiness.
Bowtie pasta – Its ridges and shape hold the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes! Fresh spinach works perfectly. Sauté it briefly before adding to the dish.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely. Penne, rigatoni, or rotini all hold sauce well.

3. Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the pasta and sauce, then refrigerate. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream.

4. What can I substitute for Cajun seasoning?
A mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and cayenne works as a homemade alternative.

5. Is it kid-friendly?
Yes, just reduce the Cajun seasoning for a milder version.

Bringing It All Together

Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Italian Sausage & Spinach is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of comfort food that brings people together. With its rich sauce, savory meats, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Whether you serve it on a busy weeknight, at a dinner party, or as a meal-prep favorite, this dish checks all the boxes: hearty, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying.

So next time you’re craving comfort with a touch of indulgence, skip the takeout and whip up this restaurant-worthy pasta dish in your own kitchen.

Creamy Beef & Bowtie Pasta