This Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Italian Sausage & Spinach is a one-skillet pasta dish that checks every box: creamy, cheesy, savory, and packed with flavor. Juicy seared sausage, tender ground beef, and vibrant spinach are tossed with bowtie pasta in a rich garlic butter parmesan sauce. It’s hearty enough for a comforting dinner and easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight.

Bowtie pasta, also known as farfalle, holds the velvety sauce perfectly in its ridges and folds, making each bite decadent and satisfying. The mix of meats adds depth and boldness, while fresh spinach cuts through with color and freshness. It’s comfort food with a gourmet edge.

What Type of Sausage Should I Use?

Italian sausage is the best pick for this recipe. Mild Italian sausage offers a balanced flavor that blends beautifully with the creamy garlic butter sauce. Want more heat? Use spicy Italian sausage. You can use links and slice them after browning, or buy ground sausage for ease. Pork or turkey sausage both work great—just go for high quality to maximize flavor.

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

Bowtie (Farfalle) Pasta – Holds the creamy sauce in every crevice.

Ground Beef – Adds a hearty, savory base to the dish.

Italian Sausage – Brings in spiced richness and texture.

Spinach – A pop of green and freshness to balance the richness.

Butter – Forms the base of the garlic butter sauce.

Garlic – The flavor star of the sauce. Freshly minced is best.

Heavy Cream – Creates a rich, silky texture.

Parmesan Cheese – Melts into the sauce, adding saltiness and nutty depth.

Olive Oil – Used for searing meats.

Salt & Pepper – Essential for building balanced flavor.

Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – For those who like a little heat.

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. Cook the bowtie pasta until al dente, according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Cook the Meats

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add ground beef and sausage (removed from casing or pre-ground). Cook until browned, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring often to prevent burning.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add in the grated parmesan and whisk until smooth. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Combine

Toss in the spinach and stir until wilted. Return the cooked meats to the skillet. Add in the drained bowtie pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water to help the sauce coat everything evenly.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Give everything a final stir and garnish with more parmesan before serving hot.

How to Serve and Store Creamy Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta

Serve this pasta piping hot right out of the skillet for maximum flavor and creaminess. A sprinkle of parmesan and a few red pepper flakes over top makes it restaurant-worthy.

Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk in a skillet to rehydrate the sauce. Avoid microwaving the sausage too long to keep it from drying out.