Rich, savory, and irresistibly creamy, this bowtie pasta dish is the definition of indulgent comfort food. Picture this: perfectly cooked farfalle coated in a garlicky butter cream sauce, speckled with sautéed spinach and juicy Italian sausage meatballs, all tied together with golden-browned beef crumbles. Every bite is a bold and cheesy explosion of flavor, thanks to the mix of cream cheese and mozzarella that creates the luscious melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a cozy dinner night, this pasta brings a show-stopping flavor without requiring restaurant-level effort. It balances richness with freshness, thanks to the vibrant green spinach and the hint of herbs in the Italian sausage. In just one skillet, you’ll have a meal that feels both fancy and fuss-free.

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

This dish isn’t just creamy pasta. It’s a full flavor experience. Here’s why you’ll crave it on repeat:

Layered textures: Tender pasta, crispy-edged sausage, and wilted spinach for contrast.
Bold, savory sauce: Garlic butter meets creamy cheese.
One-pan friendly: Less cleanup, more flavor.
Perfectly balanced: Rich but not too heavy, thanks to fresh greens.
Crowd-pleaser: Kids, guests, and picky eaters all go back for seconds.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into the creamy, cheesy goodness, have these essential kitchen tools ready:

Large deep skillet or saute pan: You’ll cook the beef, sausage, and sauce all in one place, locking in flavor.
Medium saucepan: For boiling the bowtie pasta to a perfect al dente.
Slotted spoon: Ideal for removing sausage meatballs while preserving the rendered fat for the sauce.
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Great for stirring without scratching non-stick surfaces.
Colander: To drain your pasta efficiently without losing any farfalle.
Grater: If you’re using fresh mozzarella, a fine shredder gives it the perfect melt.

Each tool plays a role in streamlining your workflow and ensuring every bite comes out creamy, hot, and loaded with flavor.

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

Bowtie pasta (Farfalle): The perfect shape to hold onto the creamy garlic butter sauce.
Italian sausage (mild or spicy): Adds herby, juicy bites that bring the dish to life.
Ground beef: Balances out the sausage with hearty richness.
Garlic cloves: The flavor base that gives depth to the sauce.
Butter: Used to sauté garlic and create the sauce’s luxurious base.
Cream cheese: Adds tangy creaminess and helps thicken the sauce.
Mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, stretchy deliciousness.
Fresh spinach: Cuts through the richness with earthy greens.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings for balanced flavor.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For a slight kick of heat.

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

Step 1: Sear the Sausage Meatballs

Shape the Italian sausage into bite-sized meatballs and sear them in a hot skillet until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside, keeping the flavorful fat in the pan.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In the same skillet, add ground beef and cook until nicely browned. Season with salt and pepper. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 3: Boil the Bowtie Pasta

While the meats cook, boil the farfalle in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Build the Garlic Butter Base

Add butter to the skillet with the browned beef. Toss in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—this will infuse the butter with deep, garlicky goodness.

Step 5: Make it Creamy

Add cream cheese to the garlic butter mixture. Stir until melted, then fold in mozzarella to create that ultra-creamy, velvety sauce.

Step 6: Add Spinach and Pasta

Stir in the fresh spinach and allow it to wilt into the sauce. Then toss in the cooked pasta until fully coated.

Step 7: Finish with Sausage

Return the sausage meatballs to the pan. Gently mix them in and let everything heat together for a few minutes.

Serve immediately, garnished with extra cheese or parsley if desired.

Serving & Storing This Cheesy Garlic Butter Pasta

This pasta is best served hot and fresh, straight from the skillet. The sauce clings beautifully to the bowties when warm, and the sausage meatballs keep their juicy texture.

If you’re storing leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce. Avoid freezing, as the dairy may separate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish less rich?

Use half the amount of cream cheese or swap in light cream cheese. You can also add extra spinach or a splash of lemon juice for freshness.

Can I use another pasta shape?

Absolutely. Penne, rigatoni, or rotini will all work. Just aim for shapes that catch sauce well.

What protein substitutions work?

Try ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter twist. Even plant-based meat can work beautifully in this creamy sauce.

Is this spicy?

The dish has a mild warmth if you add red pepper flakes. Skip them for a no-heat version, or use hot Italian sausage if you want more kick.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If making ahead, keep the pasta and sauce separate and combine them when reheating.

What can I serve with this pasta?

A crisp green salad or roasted veggies pair perfectly. Garlic bread on the side? Even better!

Want More Pasta Skillet Ideas?

If you loved this Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Bowtie Pasta with Italian Sausage & Spinach, you’ll enjoy these other comforting favorites:

Each one delivers creamy, bold flavor with easy steps and hearty ingredients.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest pasta board so you can come back to it any time: Kitchen By Kate on Pinterest.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you spice it up or keep it classic? Add mushrooms or extra cheese?

I love seeing how you make these recipes your own. Got questions? I’m here to help—let’s keep creating delicious food together.