When it comes to comfort food that’s both satisfying and easy to make, creamy pasta dishes often steal the show. This Creamy Parmesan Beef Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce is a perfect example of that kind of dish. I first made this recipe on a chilly evening when I wanted something rich, hearty, and full of flavor but without hours spent in the kitchen. The combination of tender bowtie pasta coated in a velvety garlic butter sauce with savory ground beef and melty cheeses quickly became a family favorite.
What I appreciate most about this recipe is how approachable it is. The ingredients are simple and familiar, yet when they come together, they create a dish that feels special and indulgent. This pasta is great for busy weeknights or casual gatherings when you want to impress without stress. The garlic butter base adds a luxurious depth that complements the Parmesan and mozzarella perfectly, making every bite creamy and delicious.
Essential Elements and Equipment
To nail this recipe, a few key tools and quality ingredients make all the difference:
- Large pot: For boiling the pasta to a perfect al dente texture.
- Large skillet: A wide, heavy-bottomed pan is ideal for browning the beef and making the sauce.
- Good quality Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is essential for the best flavor and smooth sauce.
- Fresh garlic: Minced garlic gives the sauce a bright and aromatic base.
- Butter and olive oil: The perfect combo for cooking the beef and building flavor in the sauce.
- Ground beef: Use fresh, good-quality beef for the best texture and taste.
- Heavy cream and beef broth: These create the creamy, rich sauce that binds everything together beautifully.
- Bowtie pasta: Its shape holds the sauce well and adds a fun texture to the dish.
- Mozzarella cheese: Adds a melty, gooey texture that rounds out the sharpness of the Parmesan.
What Makes This Recipe Work
- Perfectly cooked pasta: Bowtie pasta holds sauce well and offers a nice bite that complements the creamy texture.
- Rich garlic butter sauce: The base of melted butter and garlic adds layers of savory depth and aroma.
- Creamy blend of cheeses: Parmesan’s sharp nuttiness balanced by mild mozzarella creates a smooth, flavorful sauce.
- Juicy seasoned ground beef: Adds heartiness and meaty flavor, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
- Simple yet flavorful seasoning: Garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper bring out the best in the beef and sauce.
- One-pan sauce creation: After browning the beef, the same skillet is used for sauce, saving dishes and boosting flavor with browned bits.
- Quick preparation: From start to finish, this meal comes together in just about 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef
- 12 oz bowtie pasta
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 9 to 11 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside, keeping it warm.
Step 2: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Once cooked, remove the beef from the skillet and set aside, leaving the flavorful drippings behind.
Step 3: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly golden, but not burnt.
Step 4: Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet, stirring gently to combine it with the creamy cheese sauce. Let everything heat together for a couple of minutes so the flavors meld and the beef is warmed through.
Step 7: Add the drained bowtie pasta into the skillet. Toss carefully but thoroughly to coat each piece of pasta evenly with the sauce. The sauce should cling to every nook and cranny of the bowtie shape, ensuring each bite is flavorful.
Step 8: If the sauce feels too thick or sticky, add a splash of warm pasta water, a little at a time. This starchy water helps loosen the sauce while keeping it creamy, and helps the sauce cling perfectly to the pasta.
Step 9: Plate the pasta, spooning it generously onto dishes or a serving platter. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and a hint of fresh herb flavor.
Step 10: For an extra touch, grate a little more Parmesan over the plated pasta. This adds a final sharpness and enhances the cheesy richness that defines the dish.
Variations You Can Try
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some ideas to make it your own or fit your dietary needs:
- Swap proteins: Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter option. If you prefer plant-based, crumbled tofu or lentils seasoned with smoky spices work surprisingly well.
- Add veggies: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, peas, or roasted red peppers for added color and nutrition. Adding vegetables gives the dish a fresh balance and extra texture.
- Cheese options: Try swapping mozzarella for provolone or gouda for a different flavor. For a sharper tang, add a bit more Parmesan or even a sprinkle of Pecorino Romano.
- Spice it up: If you want a kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne powder with the Italian seasoning. It adds a pleasant heat that complements the richness.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your beef broth is gluten-free to make this dish suitable for gluten sensitivities.
How to Serve
This creamy and hearty pasta pairs well with lighter sides that balance the richness:
- Fresh green salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes dressed in a simple vinaigrette brightens the meal. The acidity cuts through the richness of the sauce.
- Roasted or steamed veggies: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus add a nice bite and fresh flavor contrast. Roasting veggies with a touch of olive oil and lemon zest brings a pleasant aroma to the table.
- Garlic bread or crusty rolls: Perfect for dipping and soaking up extra sauce, a warm bread option always pairs beautifully with creamy pasta dishes.
- Beverages: Try sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or iced herbal tea for a refreshing accompaniment that cleanses the palate between bites.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often contains additives that prevent melting smoothly. Fresh cheese ensures a silky, creamy sauce.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Aim for al dente as it will continue cooking slightly when tossed with the sauce. Overcooked pasta becomes mushy and won’t hold sauce well.
- Let the sauce thicken before adding pasta: This helps it cling better and creates a luscious coating.
- Adjust sauce thickness with pasta water: This simple trick rescues a sauce that’s too thick or dry without watering it down.
- Season gradually: Taste as you go. Cheese and broth add saltiness, so start light with salt and adjust accordingly.
- Keep cooked beef warm: Covering the cooked beef while you prepare the sauce keeps it juicy and tender.
Cooking Notes
- Melt butter gently to avoid burning.
- Sauté garlic just until fragrant to prevent bitterness.
- Whisk constantly when adding cream and cheese to avoid lumps.
- Use medium-low heat for the sauce to ensure smooth melting.
- If the sauce separates or looks grainy, stirring in a bit of warm broth or cream can help bring it back together.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 760
- Protein: 45g
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce separately and combine them before reheating gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth. Avoid overcooking during reheating to maintain texture.
What if I don’t have Velveeta?
Velveeta adds a creamy texture but is not required here. The combination of heavy cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella creates plenty of creaminess on its own.
Can I freeze leftovers?
This pasta freezes well. Store in an airtight container and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently.
How spicy is this dish?
This version is mild. You can add red pepper flakes or more Italian seasoning to increase heat as desired.
Conclusion
Creamy Parmesan Beef Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce is one of those dishes that feels both luxurious and approachable. It’s perfect for nights when you want comfort food that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. The rich, cheesy sauce balanced with savory beef and tender pasta makes every bite satisfying and delicious. The recipe is forgiving and flexible, so you can easily customize it to suit your family’s tastes or what you have on hand.
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal, this pasta is sure to become a favorite in your recipe box. The fresh parsley garnish adds just the right touch of color and brightness to balance the richness. Give it a try and enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness with every forkful.
Print
Creamy Parmesan Beef Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef
- 12 oz bowtie pasta
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 9 to 11 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside, keeping it warm.
Step 2: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Once cooked, remove the beef from the skillet and set aside, leaving the flavorful drippings behind.
Step 3: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly golden, but not burnt.
Step 4: Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet, stirring gently to combine it with the creamy cheese sauce. Let everything heat together for a couple of minutes so the flavors meld and the beef is warmed through.
Step 7: Add the drained bowtie pasta into the skillet. Toss carefully but thoroughly to coat each piece of pasta evenly with the sauce. The sauce should cling to every nook and cranny of the bowtie shape, ensuring each bite is flavorful.
Step 8: If the sauce feels too thick or sticky, add a splash of warm pasta water, a little at a time. This starchy water helps loosen the sauce while keeping it creamy, and helps the sauce cling perfectly to the pasta.
Step 9: Plate the pasta, spooning it generously onto dishes or a serving platter. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and a hint of fresh herb flavor.
Step 10: For an extra touch, grate a little more Parmesan over the plated pasta. This adds a final sharpness and enhances the cheesy richness that defines the dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 760
- Sodium: 720
- Fat: 42
- Protein: 45