Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce

Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce is a simple yet indulgent pasta dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for guests. The bowtie pasta, also known as farfalle, has a unique shape that holds onto the rich, aromatic garlic butter sauce perfectly, allowing every bite to be flavorful.

This dish is comfort food at its finest — buttery, garlicky, and satisfying, yet light enough to pair with vegetables or a protein of your choice. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward method, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results without hours in the kitchen.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s both incredibly flavorful and effortless to make.
The garlic butter sauce is rich and fragrant, coating every piece of bowtie pasta beautifully. It’s comforting, indulgent, and yet versatile — you can enjoy it as a quick dinner or dress it up with Parmesan, herbs, or even shrimp for a special occasion. The balance of simplicity and taste is what makes this recipe a personal favorite.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Quick and easy pasta recipe ready in under 30 minutes
• Rich, buttery, and garlicky flavor that everyone loves
• Perfect as a side dish or main course with added protein
• Can be customized with herbs, cheese, or vegetables
• A guaranteed crowd-pleaser for family or dinner guests

Preparation Time, Cooking Time & Servings

Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 20–25 minutes

Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 400 calories per serving

Course: Main Course / Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian / Comfort Food

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for added richness)

Cooking Directions

1. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1–2 minutes. Add red pepper flakes if using.
4. Drain pasta, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
5. Add pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in garlic butter. Use reserved pasta water to loosen sauce if needed.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

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

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Optional: add red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss gently to coat in the garlic butter sauce. If the pasta seems dry, add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.

Step 4: Season and Finish
Season with salt and black pepper. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley on top. Toss again gently and serve immediately.

How to Serve

Serve Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce hot as a main dish or side. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, shrimp, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil or add toasted pine nuts on top.

Recipe Tips

• Do not overcook the pasta; al dente pasta holds the sauce better.
• Use fresh garlic for the best aroma and flavor.
• Reserve some pasta water — it helps emulsify the sauce and keeps it silky.
• Toss pasta in the sauce immediately after cooking for maximum flavor absorption.
• Add Parmesan gradually, tasting as you go, to avoid overpowering the garlic flavor.

Variations

Shrimp Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta: Add sautéed shrimp to the pasta for a protein-rich meal.
Creamy Version: Stir in 1/4 cup heavy cream to make a creamy garlic butter sauce.
Vegetable Version: Add roasted broccoli, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for a healthy twist.
Herb-Infused: Add thyme, basil, or oregano for an extra layer of flavor.
Spicy Garlic Butter: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne for heat.

Freezing and Storage

Storage:
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce.

Freezing:
This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be frozen for up to 1 month. Freeze in a freezer-safe container without Parmesan. Reheat gently and add fresh cheese and herbs after thawing.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or tongs for tossing pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons

Conclusion

Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce is a simple, elegant, and delicious dish that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Its rich, buttery, garlicky flavor and tender pasta make it a crowd-pleaser every time. With minimal ingredients and quick preparation, it’s a versatile recipe that can be customized with vegetables, protein, or herbs, making it a staple in any kitchen.