This creamy garlic parmesan bowtie pasta with beef is like a cozy hug in a bowl! The tender pasta pairs perfectly with savory beef and a rich, cheesy sauce that’s simply irresistible.
Honestly, who can resist a dish that’s this creamy and comforting? I love making it for friends—it’s a sure way to impress without a lot of fuss. Perfect for movie night! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bowtie Pasta: This pasta shape is fun and holds the sauce well. If you don’t have bowtie, you can use penne or fusilli as an alternative. They also work great with creamy sauces!
Ground Beef: While I love using ground beef for its flavor, you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Even a plant-based meat can work for a vegetarian twist!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor here. If you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder—about 1/2 teaspoon for each clove.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may be less creamy.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is a must for that cheesy taste. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano offers a similar flavor. Nutritional yeast is a nice vegan alternative to add a cheesy flavor.
How to Make the Creamy Sauce Just Right?
Creating the perfect creamy sauce is key in this recipe. Here are my tips:
- Start with a medium heat when combining the garlic and onion to prevent burning while they develop flavor.
- When adding the cream and milk, stir well, and let it simmer gently so it can thicken without boiling, which can cause separation.
- Mix in the cheese gradually, stirring continuously until it’s fully melted into the sauce—this helps in achieving that smooth, creamy consistency.
Incorporating these tips will ensure your pasta dish turns out delicious every time!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta and Beef:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For The Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp butter
For Seasoning and Garnish:
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy garlic parmesan bowtie pasta with beef takes about 30 minutes to prepare, including boiling the pasta and cooking the beef. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 6-8 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks, until it’s browned and completely cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if you’re using it. Once done, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Then, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until fragrant and the onions are translucent, around 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure the garlic doesn’t burn!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring continuously to combine. Allow the mixture to gently simmer for about 3-4 minutes, which will help thicken the sauce a bit.
5. Add the Cheese:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until it’s melted and you have a smooth sauce. Taste it and add more salt and pepper if you like!
6. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and mix it with the creamy sauce. Then add the drained bowtie pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy beef sauce.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Top with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and serve warm. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, garlicky bowtie pasta with beef!
FAQ for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Beef
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta works great, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, like penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions!
How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
You can lighten this dish by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and replacing the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. You can also reduce or omit the butter for an even lighter version!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the beef in advance! Store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan before adding the cooked pasta just before serving to keep everything fresh.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to smooth out the sauce if needed.