This creamy garlic parmesan bowtie pasta with beef is a cozy dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate! The rich sauce and tender beef create a wonderful flavor that makes dinner special.
If you’re like me, you’ll love the easy prep—just cook, mix, and serve! Plus, it’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself after a long day. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bowtie Pasta: This shape is excellent for holding onto the sauce! If you don’t have bowtie, you can easily substitute with penne or rotini, which work just as well.
Ground Beef: I love using lean ground beef for this dish. For a healthier option, try ground turkey or chicken. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
Heavy Cream: It gives the sauce a rich texture. If you’d like a lighter dish, use half-and-half or even whole milk. You can also opt for a non-dairy cream alternative if you prefer.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan has the best flavor. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano is a nice alternative. Nutritional yeast can be used for a vegan option.
How Do You Make the Sauce Creamy Without Clumping?
Making a creamy sauce can be tricky, but here are some tips! Start by cooking the onions and garlic over low heat to release their flavors without burning them. When adding the heavy cream, make sure to keep the heat low to avoid curdling.
- Stir the sauce continuously after adding the cream and cheese. This ensures a smooth consistency.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually add milk, stirring often. This helps to maintain the creaminess!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Beef:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1/2 cup milk (optional, to thin sauce if needed)
Seasonings:
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
Garnish:
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total! You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for cooking. Quick and tasty—just the way we like it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter. When it’s heated, toss in the ground beef. Season it with salt and pepper and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Make sure to break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once done, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Now, add in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until you can smell that delicious garlic aroma!
4. Deglaze with Broth:
Pour in the beef broth, making sure to scrape the bottom of the skillet to release any flavorful brown bits. Allow the broth to reduce slightly by letting it simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Lower the heat to low, and gently stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely, and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If it gets too thick, just add a splash of milk until you reach your desired consistency.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked beef to the skillet and stir to combine it with the creamy sauce. Then, add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet, tossing gently so the pasta is well coated with that delicious sauce. Taste it and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little spice.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Turn off the heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve your creamy garlic parmesan bowtie pasta with beef warm and enjoy the deliciousness!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead of Bowtie Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat bowtie or any whole wheat pasta is a great option for added fiber and nutrients. Just keep in mind that cooking times may differ slightly, so check the package instructions.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Substitute the bowtie pasta with a gluten-free pasta option like brown rice or chickpea pasta. The cooking times may vary, so watch them closely to avoid overcooking.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can definitely add vegetables! Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers would be great additions. Just sauté them with the onion and garlic for extra flavor and nutrition!
