This creamy garlic Parmesan bowtie pasta with beef is a comforting delight! The pasta twirls around in a rich, cheesy sauce, making every bite feel like a warm hug.
And let’s be real, who can resist the mix of tender beef and that garlic goodness? I whip this up for a quick dinner and end up enjoying way too much—definitely a family favorite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bowtie Pasta: Bowtie pasta is the star here! If you’re out, any pasta shape like penne or fusilli will work just fine. My personal fave is rotini for its fun twist that holds onto sauce really well!
Ground Beef: I love using lean ground beef in this recipe for a rich taste without too much grease. If you prefer, turkey or chicken can be great alternatives for a lighter dish.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream gives that luxurious texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or even a dairy-free cream could work, though it may affect the thickness.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds that sharp, cheesy flavor. Pecorino Romano is a nice substitute if you want something a bit saltier. Just remember to adjust salt levels in your dish!
Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley is a lovely garnish, but basil or oregano can also add a nice touch. I often toss in a pinch of Italian seasoning for added flavor!
How Do I Achieve a Creamy Sauce Without Curdling?
Creating that creamy sauce is key! To make sure your cream doesn’t curdle, keep these tips in mind:
- Always heat the cream gently; high heat can cause it to separate. So, simmer, don’t boil!
- Add the cheese gradually and stir continuously until it’s completely melted before adding more.
- If you’re worried, you can temper the cream by mixing a bit of the hot broth with the cream before adding it to the skillet.
With these tricks, you’ll have a velvety sauce every time!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Beef:
- 8 oz (225 g) bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or beef broth
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 20 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and cooking the ingredients, plus another 10 for cooking and combining everything for a creamy masterpiece. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add your bowtie pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it, breaking it up with a spatula as it browns. This should take around 6-8 minutes. Once it’s nicely cooked, season it with salt and pepper, then remove it from the skillet and set it aside for now.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet where you cooked the beef, add the butter. Once it melts, toss in the chopped onion. Sauté until the onions turn translucent, which takes about 3 minutes. After that, add the minced garlic and let it cook for about another minute until you can smell that wonderful aroma!
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken or beef broth and heavy cream, stirring everything together. Bring it to a gentle simmer over low heat. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce becomes creamy. If you like a little kick, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes.
5. Combine Everything Together:
Now it’s time to return that deliciously cooked ground beef to the skillet. Mix it well with the creamy sauce. Next, add the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet and gently toss everything together so that the pasta is nicely coated with the sauce. Season to taste with additional salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Once everything is combined, serve the pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley on top for a nice pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your creamy garlic Parmesan beef pasta!
FAQ
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead of Bowtie Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta works well and adds a nutty flavor along with extra fiber. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so check the package for instructions.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt. Just remember, the sauce may not be as thick, but it will still be tasty!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can be sautéed along with the onion and garlic for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust cooking times to ensure they’re tender!
