Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef

When it comes to quick and comforting dinners, few dishes can compete with the creamy richness of garlic parmesan pasta paired with savory beef. Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef is a dish that strikes the perfect balance between rich, indulgent flavors and a comforting, hearty texture. This recipe takes just about 30 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, but it’s also delicious enough to serve for family gatherings or casual dinner parties.

The creamy beef sauce, enriched with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, coats each bowtie pasta beautifully, giving every bite a velvety texture. The addition of Rotel tomatoes with chilies provides a hint of spice and tang, making this dish not just filling but flavorful too. Whether you’re serving it to picky eaters or food lovers, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

This dish is incredibly versatile. You can tweak it to suit dietary preferences, use different types of cheese, or add in extra vegetables for a well-rounded meal. It’s all about making the recipe your own while still keeping it delicious and easy to prepare. If you’re looking for a satisfying and simple pasta dish with the perfect creamy beef sauce, look no further.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is a time-saver, ready in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen but still want a filling, tasty dinner.

• Creamy and Comforting: The rich, creamy sauce made from heavy cream, beef broth, and melted cheeses gives the pasta an indulgent texture that makes it feel like a comforting, hearty meal. It’s the perfect balance of creamy and savory, with just enough tang from the tomatoes and spices to keep it interesting.

• Family-Friendly: This is the kind of meal that will appeal to all ages. The mild spice from the Rotel tomatoes is easily adjustable, and the flavors are familiar and loved by everyone, making it a safe bet for even picky eaters.

• Customizable: Want to add more veggies or spices? This recipe is flexible. You can make it as mild or as spicy as you like and even swap out some ingredients to fit your dietary preferences. You can also add extra vegetables, like spinach or mushrooms, to make it more filling.

• Hearty and Filling: With protein-rich beef, pasta, and a creamy sauce, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious, perfect for those days when you need a little extra comfort food.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 12 oz bowtie pasta
• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 (10 oz) can Rotel tomatoes with chilies, undrained
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparation

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Brown the Ground Beef: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through. If necessary, drain any excess fat from the beef.

3. Add Garlic and Seasonings: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked beef and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, mixing everything together. This step is key for building layers of flavor in the sauce.

4. Add Rotel Tomatoes and Beef Broth: Pour in the can of undrained Rotel tomatoes and beef broth, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend. The Rotel tomatoes bring a nice tangy kick to the dish, complementing the richness of the beef.

5. Prepare the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer for another 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Once the sauce has thickened, add the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, stirring until both cheeses have melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat it evenly in the creamy beef sauce. At this point, you can also stir in red pepper flakes if you’d like an extra touch of spice. Be sure to taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed.

7. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the creamy pasta to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. Serve immediately while the dish is hot and enjoy!

Variation Ideas

• Gluten-Free: If you need a gluten-free version, simply swap the bowtie pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Many gluten-free pasta options hold up well in creamy sauces, so you won’t sacrifice texture or flavor.

• Vegan: For a vegan version of this dish, swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or tofu. Use coconut cream or cashew cream in place of heavy cream and opt for dairy-free cheese alternatives like vegan mozzarella and Parmesan.

• Spicy: Love heat? Add extra red pepper flakes or a couple of finely chopped fresh chilies to the skillet when cooking the garlic. You could even throw in a bit of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to kick up the heat.

• Vegetarian: If you’re not a fan of meat, you can turn this into a hearty vegetarian meal by swapping the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or even crumbled tempeh. These ingredients will absorb the creamy sauce beautifully.

• Cheese Variations: While Parmesan and mozzarella are traditional choices for this recipe, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Sharp cheddar, asiago, or Pecorino Romano can all add a unique twist to the dish’s flavor profile.

How to Serve

This dish is rich and satisfying on its own, but there are plenty of ways you can elevate the meal with complementary sides, sauces, or garnishes.

1. Side Dishes: Pair your creamy pasta with a light and refreshing side salad. A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the pasta. Alternatively, a Caesar salad would complement the Parmesan flavors wonderfully. Roasted vegetables, like broccoli or asparagus, also pair well, offering a nice contrast in texture and flavor.

2. Garlic Bread: For those who can’t get enough of garlic and cheese, serve a side of buttery garlic bread. Its crispiness and buttery flavor make the perfect companion to the creamy beef pasta. You can easily make garlic bread by toasting slices of baguette or Italian bread with butter, garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

3. Sauces: While the dish itself is already flavorful, you could drizzle a bit more sauce on top if you prefer extra creaminess. A sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese or a dollop of sour cream could make it even richer.

4. Garnish: Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh parsley over the top of the dish before serving. The pop of green not only adds a burst of color but also a light, herby freshness that cuts through the richness of the creamy sauce. You could also top the dish with some extra Parmesan if you like it extra cheesy.

Recipe Tips

To help you get the most out of your Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef, here are a few tips that can enhance your cooking experience:

• Meal Prep: This dish makes for excellent meal prep. You can cook the pasta and beef sauce ahead of time, store them separately in the fridge, and reheat them when you’re ready to serve. When reheating, simply add a splash of beef broth or cream to restore the creaminess.

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the pasta cool before storing it to avoid condensation. If you plan to freeze leftovers, place the dish in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it up on the stovetop or in the microwave.

• Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. If you like a bit of heat, feel free to increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

• Beef Alternatives: While ground beef is the star of this recipe, you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Ground sausage can also add an interesting flavor twist if you prefer something with a little more spice.

• Vegan Option: For a vegan version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils, and use dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives to keep the dish creamy and flavorful without any animal products.

Cooking Notes

• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic will provide the best flavor compared to pre-minced garlic in a jar. The garlic becomes more aromatic as it cooks, infusing the beef and sauce with its savory essence.

• Don’t Overcook the Beef: When cooking the ground beef, make sure to avoid overcooking it. Overcooked beef can become dry and tough, which will affect the texture of the dish. Brown the beef just until it’s no longer pink, and remember that it will continue to cook in the sauce.

• Control the Creaminess: If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer for a few more minutes after adding the cream and cheeses. Conversely, if the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit more beef broth to achieve the desired consistency.

• Season to Taste: Remember that the cheeses will add a lot of saltiness to the dish. Taste the sauce before adding more salt, and adjust the seasoning as needed.

• Use a Large Skillet: A large skillet is key to ensuring that everything is well combined and the sauce has enough space to coat the pasta. Avoid using a small pan, as it might overflow when you add the pasta.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 560 per serving (based on 4 servings)
• Protein: 33g
• Sodium: 890mg

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? Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is a fun choice for this dish, you can substitute it with any pasta you like. Penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti would work perfectly well with this creamy beef sauce.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep. You can cook the pasta and beef sauce in advance, store them separately, and reheat them later. Just be sure to add a bit of extra cream or broth to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency when reheating.

3. Can I use a different type of meat? Definitely! If you don’t want to use ground beef, try substituting it with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based option like lentils or veggie crumbles for a vegetarian version.

4. Can I make this dish spicier? Yes! If you like things spicy, you can add more red pepper flakes, or even a chopped jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

5. Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Simply store the pasta and sauce in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and heat it on the stove with a little extra cream or broth to bring the sauce back to life.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef is a dish that ticks all the boxes for a perfect weeknight dinner delicious, easy to make, and full of flavor. The combination of garlic, creamy sauce, and tender beef makes it a hit with both adults and kids. Plus, the recipe is versatile enough to accommodate different dietary preferences and can be customized to your liking.

Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner with friends or a cozy family meal, this pasta dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. With a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal any day of the week.

Give it a try and let us know what you think! We’d love to hear how you customize this recipe or any tips you have to share. Don’t forget to explore more of our tasty pasta dishes for your next dinner.

Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef

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• Author: Emily Wilkinson
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Ingredients

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Ingredients You’ll Need

• 12 oz bowtie pasta
• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 (10 oz) can Rotel tomatoes with chilies, undrained
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

Preparation

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Brown the Ground Beef: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through. If necessary, drain any excess fat from the beef.

3. Add Garlic and Seasonings: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked beef and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, mixing everything together. This step is key for building layers of flavor in the sauce.

4. Add Rotel Tomatoes and Beef Broth: Pour in the can of undrained Rotel tomatoes and beef broth, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend. The Rotel tomatoes bring a nice tangy kick to the dish, complementing the richness of the beef.

5. Prepare the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer for another 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Once the sauce has thickened, add the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, stirring until both cheeses have melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat it evenly in the creamy beef sauce. At this point, you can also stir in red pepper flakes if you’d like an extra touch of spice. Be sure to taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed.

7. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the creamy pasta to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. Serve immediately while the dish is hot and enjoy!

Notes

• Don’t Overcook the Beef: When cooking the ground beef, make sure to avoid overcooking it. Overcooked beef can become dry and tough, which will affect the texture of the dish. Brown the beef just until it’s no longer pink, and remember that it will continue to cook in the sauce.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

• Calories: 560
• Sodium: 890
• Protein: 33