This cheesy and creamy garlic parmesan bowtie pasta is sure to make your taste buds dance! With tender bowtie pasta and juicy beef, it’s a hearty meal that’s quick to whip up.
You’ll love how the rich flavors come together in just one pot—less mess, more yum! I always find myself wanting another scoop (or three)! 🍝😉
This dish is perfect for busy nights. Just cook the pasta, brown the beef, and mix it all with that creamy, cheesy goodness. It’s comfort food at its best!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Bowtie Pasta: Farfalle is a great choice for this recipe! If unavailable, you can use any similar pasta, like rotini or even penne. They all hold sauce well and taste good!
Ground Beef: I prefer lean ground beef for less grease. You can switch it to ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Heavy Cream: The heavy cream adds richness. If you want a lighter dish, you can substitute half and half or whole milk, but the sauce may be slightly less creamy.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan makes a difference! If you’re out of Parmesan, use Pecorino Romano or even a mix of Italian cheeses for a fun twist.
How Can I Ensure the Sauce is Creamy and Smooth?
Getting a perfectly creamy sauce can feel tricky, but it’s all about the process! Here’s how to nail it:
- After adding the heavy cream and milk, stir to ensure a smooth blend before adding the cheese.
- Gradually add the Parmesan cheese while stirring to prevent clumping. Let it melt slowly for that perfect creamy texture.
- If you find the sauce too thick, just add a splash more milk to reach your desired consistency.
Following these tips will help you achieve that delightful, creamy sauce every time! Enjoy your cooking! 🍽️
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (about 2 ½ cups) bowtie (farfalle) pasta
For the Beef and Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 ½ cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta, and then around 20 minutes preparing the sauce and combining everything. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente (firm yet tender). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for now.
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef to the pan. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Brown it until fully cooked through, which will take about 6–8 minutes. Season it with salt and pepper, then remove the beef from the pan and set aside, leaving any fat in the pan for flavor.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter. Throw in the chopped onion and sauté until it’s translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells great!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Now, reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream and milk. Stir the mixture well to combine everything. Gradually sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring, allowing it to melt smoothly into the sauce. If you want more flavor, stir in the dried Italian seasoning.
5. Combine and Season:
Season the creamy sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Then, return the cooked ground beef to the skillet, stirring it in so everything is well mixed.
6. Toss in the Pasta:
Finally, add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet. Toss gently to ensure all the pasta is coated evenly with that delicious creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Cook everything together for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Remove the skillet from the heat, then garnish your dish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately, and enjoy your creamy garlic Parmesan bowtie pasta with beef!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Beef
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead of Bowtie?
Absolutely! Whole wheat bowtie or any whole grain pasta will work beautifully in this recipe. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly; total cooking time might be a little longer, so check for doneness according to the package instructions.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to help revive the creamy sauce!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the ground beef with your favorite meat alternative, such as lentils or mushrooms for a hearty texture. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to elevate the dish further.
What Should I Serve With This Dish?
This creamy pasta pairs well with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Garlic bread is also a fantastic option to soak up any extra sauce!
