When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as universally loved as creamy pasta. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together, filling the kitchen with mouth-watering aromas and satisfying even the pickiest eaters. One dish that stands out in my family is creamy parmesan garlic beef bowtie pasta. This recipe has been a staple in our home for years, always making an appearance on busy weeknights and special family gatherings alike. The combination of rich, creamy sauce and tender beef, all tangled in perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, is a crowd-pleaser every time.
I first discovered this recipe during a hectic work week when I needed something quick, delicious, and hearty to feed my family. I was craving something creamy yet savory, and this dish hit all the right notes. From that moment on, it quickly became a favorite in our house. What’s great about this dish is that it’s not just for hectic nights; it’s also fantastic for family gatherings, potlucks, or dinner parties where you want to impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen. The creamy sauce, paired with the comforting pasta and seasoned beef, makes it the perfect go-to meal for any occasion.
So, whether you’re looking for a simple dinner or a dish that will have your guests coming back for seconds, creamy parmesan garlic beef bowtie pasta is the recipe to try.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy parmesan garlic beef bowtie pasta is the type of dish that gets better with every bite. What sets it apart from other pasta recipes is its ability to combine rich, creamy flavors with a satisfying depth from the beef and garlic. It’s indulgent without being overwhelming, making it perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and more special occasions.
There’s no need for complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. You’ll love how easy it is to throw together in one skillet. With minimal prep and cook time, this recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want a comforting, filling meal without much fuss. But the best part is the flavor it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser that’ll have your family or guests raving about the dish.
Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Quick and easy: From start to finish, this recipe takes less than 30 minutes.
- Comforting: The creamy sauce combined with the beef and pasta makes for a satisfying, hearty meal.
- Customizable: You can easily make it your own by adding vegetables or adjusting the seasonings.
- One-pan magic: The fact that you cook everything in one skillet means less mess and more flavor concentration.
- Versatile: Perfect for any occasion whether it’s a family weeknight dinner, a special gathering, or meal prep for the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 teaspoons olive oil
- 5-6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cups beef broth
- 8 oz Bowtie Pasta
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3/4 cup half and half (or whole milk)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Preparation
Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat for 1-2 minutes until hot.
Step 2: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften and become translucent.
Step 3: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 4: Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to let the spices blend into the beef mixture.
Step 5: Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 5 minutes, allowing the broth to reduce slightly.
Step 6: Meanwhile, cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and reserve a small cup of pasta water.
Step 7: Stir in butter, grated parmesan cheese, and half and half into the beef mixture. Stir constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
Step 8: Add the cooked pasta into the skillet and toss everything together to coat the pasta with the creamy sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, and sprinkle red pepper flakes for extra heat (optional).
Step 10: Garnish with fresh parsley and additional parmesan cheese before serving.
Variations
This creamy parmesan garlic beef bowtie pasta is incredibly versatile and can be easily adapted to suit different dietary preferences or taste preferences. Here are a few ideas for variations:
- Vegetarian version: Swap out the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms. This will give you a similar texture and a hearty, satisfying flavor without the meat.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free bowtie pasta or any gluten-free pasta you prefer. There are many excellent gluten-free pasta options available, and they’ll work just as well in this recipe.
- Add veggies: To boost the nutritional value and flavor, consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Simply sauté the vegetables alongside the onion and garlic in Step 2 for a tasty veggie-packed dish.
- Creamier sauce: For an extra creamy texture, you can increase the amount of half and half or add a bit of cream cheese to the sauce. This will make the dish even richer and indulgent.
- Spice it up: If you like a little more heat, add extra red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
How to Serve
Creamy parmesan garlic beef bowtie pasta is a wonderfully satisfying main course, but to truly elevate the meal, consider pairing it with complementary sides that bring balance to the richness of the dish. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette, like a mixed arugula and spinach salad, provides a refreshing contrast. You can add cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onions, and a sprinkle of feta or goat cheese for extra flavor.
To round out the meal, serve some garlic bread or crusty baguette on the side. The crispy, buttery bread is perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce and will add a comforting touch to your dinner. If you’re looking to go a bit lighter, steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans work wonderfully as a side, offering a touch of crunch and freshness to balance the pasta.
Recipe Tips
To enhance the flavor and texture of this creamy parmesan garlic beef bowtie pasta, here are a few helpful tips:
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Pasta cooking: Be sure to cook your pasta al dente this helps it hold up better when tossed in the creamy sauce and prevents it from becoming mushy. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining, as you can use it to adjust the consistency of the sauce if needed.
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Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re prepping in advance, you can also cook the beef and store it separately in the fridge, then assemble the pasta when you’re ready to eat.
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Freezing: While pasta dishes with creamy sauces don’t always freeze well due to the separation of the cream, you can still freeze the beef sauce separately (without the pasta) for up to 2 months. Reheat the sauce and cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to enjoy it.
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Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a richer sauce, add a bit more cream or butter. Alternatively, if you want a lighter dish, swap some of the cream for chicken or vegetable broth.
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Boost the flavor: Don’t be afraid to experiment with additional seasonings. Fresh thyme or basil can add an herbaceous twist, while a touch of crushed red pepper flakes will give the dish a little heat.
Cooking Notes
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Brown the beef properly: To get the best flavor, make sure the beef is well browned before you add the broth and other liquids. This caramelization adds a deeper, savory taste to the sauce.
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Sauté garlic carefully: Garlic can burn quickly, turning bitter. Be sure to cook it over medium heat and remove it from the pan once it becomes fragrant, usually in 1-2 minutes.
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Don’t overcook the pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta as it cooks to ensure it’s al dente. Overcooked pasta can become soggy and absorb too much sauce, resulting in a mushy dish.
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Thicken the sauce with pasta water: If your sauce is too thin, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water. This starchy water will help thicken the sauce and enhance its creaminess.
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Taste and adjust: Taste your sauce as it simmers, and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional Italian seasoning as needed. Each brand of broth or cheese can vary in salt content, so be sure to season to your liking.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 520
Protein: 29g
Sodium: 660mg
Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
FAQs:
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While this recipe calls for bowtie pasta, you can substitute any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or fusilli. Just make sure the pasta is sturdy enough to hold up to the creamy sauce.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This creamy parmesan garlic beef bowtie pasta can be made ahead. Prepare the beef sauce and pasta separately, store them in airtight containers in the fridge, and then reheat when ready to serve. If the sauce thickens upon cooling, simply add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up while reheating.
3. Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef?
Yes, you can swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat if you prefer. The flavor will slightly change, but the recipe will still be delicious with these substitutions.
4. Can I freeze this dish?
While pasta dishes with creamy sauces don’t always freeze well due to texture changes, you can freeze the beef sauce (without the pasta) for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and cook fresh pasta.
5. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and add some sautéed vegetables, like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers, for a hearty texture. You can also add a plant-based protein, such as lentils or tofu, to replace the meat.
6. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a saucepan over medium heat with a splash of milk or broth to bring the creaminess back.
Conclusion:
Creamy parmesan garlic beef bowtie pasta is a comforting, flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight dinner or serving it at a casual family gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. The creamy, garlicky sauce combined with the tender beef and bowtie pasta creates a harmonious meal that everyone will love. Plus, the ingredients are simple and easy to find, making it an accessible choice for both beginner and experienced cooks alike.
This dish is versatile, allowing you to make it your own with creative variations such as swapping in different proteins, using gluten-free pasta, or adding your favorite vegetables. And with the option to make it ahead of time or store leftovers for later, it’s a great meal to prepare in advance for busy days. Whether served with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables, creamy parmesan garlic beef bowtie pasta is a crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a family favorite.
We hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious comfort it brings to your table. If you do, be sure to let us know how it turned out, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments! And if you’re looking for more delicious, easy-to-make recipes, browse through our collection for even more ideas to inspire your next meal.
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Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 teaspoons olive oil
- 5–6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cups beef broth
- 8 oz Bowtie Pasta
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3/4 cup half and half (or whole milk)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1–2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat for 1-2 minutes until hot.
Step 2: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften and become translucent.
Step 3: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 4: Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to let the spices blend into the beef mixture.
Step 5: Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 5 minutes, allowing the broth to reduce slightly.
Step 7: Stir in butter, grated parmesan cheese, and half and half into the beef mixture. Stir constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
Step 8: Add the cooked pasta into the skillet and toss everything together to coat the pasta with the creamy sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, and sprinkle red pepper flakes for extra heat (optional).
Step 10: Garnish with fresh parsley and additional parmesan cheese before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 520
- Sodium: 660
- Protein: 29