Are you tired of the same old pasta dishes? Look no further! Bow tie pasta, also known as farfalle, is a fun and versatile shape that can be paired with a wide variety of flavors and ingredients. From creamy sauces to light and refreshing options, there’s something for everyone in this collection of 20 delicious bow tie pasta recipes.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish for your next special occasion, these recipes are sure to impress. With flavors ranging from classic Italian to spicy and adventurous, you’ll find inspiration for every taste and occasion. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of bow tie pasta, highlighting some of our favorite recipes that showcase this beloved shape at its best.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Bow Tie Pasta
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan, and cream, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes, until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired creaminess.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bow Tie Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach
A flavorful and nutritious pasta dish that combines the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with the earthiness of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they release their flavors.
4. Stir in fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, tomato-spinach mixture, and reserved pasta water (if needed). Toss until well combined.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Butter Shrimp Bow Tie Pasta
A bright and citrusy twist on classic shrimp pasta, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with a zesty lemon butter sauce and tender bow tie pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz bow tie pasta
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium-low.
5. Add lemon juice and white wine (if using) to the skillet. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Toss cooked pasta with lemon butter sauce, then add cooked shrimp. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bow Tie Pasta Alfredo with Broccoli
This creamy pasta dish combines the flavors of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and broccoli in a rich and satisfying sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a separate skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender, about 4 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour over the broccoli mixture and whisk together. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking continuously. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine cooked pasta, broccoli sauce, and reserved pasta water. Toss until well combined.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Bow Tie Pasta Skillet
A hearty one-pot meal that combines spicy sausage, flavorful pasta, and a hint of smokiness.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, sliced
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the pasta, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bow Tie Pasta with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
A colorful and flavorful pasta dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to release their juices.
3. Stir in the pesto and cook for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the tomato and pesto mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Bacon Ranch Bow Tie Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of chicken, bacon, and ranch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup ranch dressing
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add crumbled bacon to the same skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes or until crispy.
4. Stir in ranch dressing and bring to a simmer. Let it reduce slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine with the ranch sauce.
6. Combine cooked pasta, chicken-ranch mixture, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bow Tie Pasta Primavera with Fresh Vegetables
This spring-inspired pasta dish is a vibrant and flavorful celebration of fresh vegetables, perfectly paired with bow tie pasta. A symphony of colors and textures, this recipe is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (asparagus, bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add mixed spring vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta with vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Cheesy Bow Tie Pasta with Ground Beef
A hearty, comforting pasta dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines the flavors of ground beef, bow tie pasta, and melted cheese in one easy-to-make pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup bow tie pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the bow tie pasta, chicken broth, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bow Tie Pasta with Mushroom Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy mushroom sauce served over bow tie pasta. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic in butter until tender. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat and let sauce cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss cooked pasta with mushroom cream sauce until well coated. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Bow Tie Pasta Salad
Mediterranean Bow Tie Pasta Salad Recipe
Transform your salad game with this flavorful Mediterranean-inspired pasta salad! A delicious blend of bow tie pasta, veggies, and savory flavors will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 2 cups mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup sliced red onion
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions, then set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese, parsley, and basil.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bow Tie Pasta with Roasted Garlic and Olive Oil
Elevate your pasta game with this simple yet flavorful recipe, featuring roasted garlic and a drizzle of rich olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 3-4 cloves garlic
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the top off each garlic clove, drizzle with 1 tbsp of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Wrap garlic in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Squeeze roasted garlic into a small bowl, mashing it slightly with a fork.
6. Add remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil to the bowl and mix well.
7. Toss cooked pasta with roasted garlic mixture, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Bow Tie Pasta Carbonara with Peas
A creamy and indulgent twist on the classic Italian dish, this recipe combines spaghetti, bacon, eggs, and peas for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz bow tie pasta
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cups fresh or frozen peas
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the peas and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Add the cooked pasta, bacon, and peas to the egg mixture. Toss until well combined.
6. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the eggs are cooked through and the mixture is creamy.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bow Tie Pasta with Italian Sausage and Peppers
A hearty and flavorful pasta dish that combines the savory taste of Italian sausage with the sweetness of bell peppers. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add sliced bell peppers, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes and cooked pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bow Tie Pasta in Creamy Tomato Basil Sauce
Savor the flavors of Italy with this classic bow tie pasta dish smothered in a rich and creamy tomato basil sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted, then add chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the creamy tomato sauce. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bow Tie Pasta with Grilled Chicken and Pesto
A flavorful and satisfying summer dinner, this recipe combines the richness of grilled chicken with the creaminess of pesto and the fun of bow tie pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup freshly made or store-bought pesto
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add pesto to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic and oil. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Slice grilled chicken into strips. Toss pasta in pesto sauce, then top with chicken and Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bow Tie Pasta with Garlic Butter Scallops
A classic combination of flavors and textures, this recipe brings together the tender sweetness of scallops with the rich creaminess of garlic butter sauce, all wrapped up in a delightful bow tie pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 12 large scallops
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add scallops to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until opaque and cooked through.
4. Stir in heavy cream and reserved pasta water. Bring sauce to a simmer and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, garlic butter sauce, and scallops. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bow Tie Pasta with Spinach and Feta Cheese
This rich and flavorful pasta dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of bow tie pasta, wilted spinach, and crumbled feta cheese creates a delightful harmony of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, and feta cheese. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the sauce and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bow Tie Pasta with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
A vibrant and flavorful twist on classic pasta dishes, this recipe combines the comfort of bow tie pasta with the sweet and smoky flavors of roasted red peppers.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bow tie pasta
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss bell peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until charred.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted red peppers, garlic, and reserved pasta water. Blend until smooth.
5. Add Parmesan cheese and blend until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss cooked pasta with the roasted red pepper sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Bow Tie Pasta with Lemon Herb Chicken
Elevate your pasta game with this bright and citrusy dish, featuring tender lemon herb chicken and perfectly cooked bow tie pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz bow tie pasta
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add garlic, thyme, lemon juice, and white wine (if using). Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Return chicken to the skillet and toss to coat with the pasta mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to twist your taste buds with these 20 delicious bow tie pasta recipes! From creamy garlic parmesan to Mediterranean-inspired salads, there’s something for every occasion. Try one-pot cheesy bow tie pasta with ground beef, or go light with a lemon butter shrimp version. You’ll also find options like spicy sausage and pesto with cherry tomatoes, as well as vegetarian and vegan-friendly choices. With these recipes, you’ll never tire of the classic bow tie pasta dish.
