This creamy garlic parmesan bowtie pasta with beef is a warm hug in a bowl! The pasta is dressed in a rich garlic sauce that’s just bursting with cheesy goodness and tasty bites of beef.
You’ll love how quick this dish comes together. I always make extra for leftovers, and let’s be real, it tastes even better the next day! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bowtie Pasta: Bowtie pasta, or farfalle, gives a nice texture and holds sauce well. If you’re out of bowtie, try penne or fusilli for a similar experience.
Ground Beef: I enjoy using ground beef for its rich flavor. But if you prefer a leaner option, consider ground turkey or chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key to this dish’s flavor. If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch, but fresh is always best for that strong taste.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and velvety. If you’re looking to lighten up the dish, you can use half-and-half or evaporated milk, though the texture will be less creamy. For a dairy-free option, consider coconut cream.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds the best flavor. In a hurry? Pre-grated cheese will do, but watch out for fillers in processed versions.
How Do I Make the Sauce Creamy Without Clumping?
The key to a smooth and creamy sauce is to control the heat while adding your ingredients. After cooking the garlic with the beef, reduce the heat before adding the cream and milk. Here’s how:
- After browning the beef, lower the heat to avoid boiling the cream.
- Stir in the butter and let it melt fully before adding the cream.
- When combining the cheese, add it gradually while stirring constantly to help it melt evenly.
These steps help prevent clumping and result in a silky sauce that coats your pasta beautifully! Enjoy those creamy bites!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 8 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta dish will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You can spend around 10 minutes on preparation and about 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and satisfying meal, perfect for busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. This is the base of your creamy dish!
2. Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Aim for it to be browned and cooked through. Once done, drain any excess fat to keep your dish from getting greasy.
3. Add the Flavors:
Add the minced garlic to the beef in the skillet and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. We want the lovely aroma to fill your kitchen!
4. Create the Creamy Base:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the butter until it melts. Next, pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring to mix everything well. Slowly bring the mixture to a gentle simmer—this will allow it to thicken a bit.
5. Add the Cheese:
Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing continuously until it melts and forms a smooth and creamy sauce. This is where the magic happens—savor that cheesy goodness!
6. Season It Up:
Season your creamy sauce with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning if you’re using it. Taste and adjust the seasoning until it’s just right for you!
7. Combine and Serve:
Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet, tossing until the pasta is well-coated in the creamy sauce and mixed with the beef. Let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes so the pasta can absorb some of that delicious sauce.
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve up your creamy garlic Parmesan bowtie pasta with beef immediately and watch everyone enjoy this comforting meal!
FAQ for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Beef
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you prefer a leaner option. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and you’ll have a deliciously light version of this dish!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with your choice of chopped vegetables (like bell peppers and mushrooms) or a plant-based meat alternative. For extra protein, you can also add cooked lentils or chickpeas!
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You might also serve it with some crusty garlic bread for extra flavor!
