Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta

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Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta: A Rich and Flavorful Weeknight Delight

Introduction to Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta

If you’re looking for a comfort food classic that combines savory meat, a silky cream sauce, bold garlic flavor, and a touch of elegance, then this Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta is your next go-to dinner. This easy-to-make dish brings together perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, rich ground beef, fresh garlic, and a luxurious Parmesan cream sauce that clings to every piece of pasta. It’s an indulgent yet approachable recipe that’s ideal for weeknight meals, cozy dinners, or even casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

  • Full of bold, garlic-forward flavor
  • Quick and easy – ready in under 40 minutes
  • Creamy and comforting, with a rich cheese sauce
  • Uses simple ingredients found in most kitchens
  • Family-friendly and perfect for leftovers

Ingredients for Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef – Use lean ground beef for a less greasy finish
  • 3 teaspoons olive oil – For sautéing and bringing richness
  • 5–6 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic gives the dish its signature kick
  • 1 lb bowtie pasta (farfalle) – Holds sauce beautifully with its ridges and shape

Sauce Ingredients

  • 1½ cups heavy cream – For a luscious, velvety texture
  • 1½ cups grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated for the best melt and flavor
  • ½ cup beef broth – Adds depth and enhances the meatiness
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Optional, but brings balanced herb notes
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley (optional) – For garnish and a pop of color

Step-by-Step Instructions

🍝 Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions.
  • Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.

🍳 Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

  • In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
  • Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned and no longer pink.
  • Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.

🧄 Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

  • In the same pan, add the remaining 2 teaspoons olive oil.
  • Add the minced garlic and sauté over medium heat for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  • Garlic should become fragrant and slightly golden—do not let it burn.

🧀 Step 4: Create the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

  • Lower the heat to medium-low.
  • Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the garlic.
  • Add the beef broth, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  • Stir frequently until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy—about 5–7 minutes.

Tip: If the sauce is too thick, slowly stir in some reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

🍲 Step 5: Combine Everything

  • Return the ground beef to the skillet with the sauce.
  • Add the cooked bowtie pasta and gently toss everything together until well coated in the creamy Parmesan garlic sauce.

🌿 Step 6: Serve and Garnish

  • Serve immediately, topped with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley for garnish.
  • Add a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad to complete the meal.

Pro Tips for Success

  • Use fresh garlic: It makes a massive difference in flavor.
  • Grate your own Parmesan: Pre-grated varieties don’t melt as smoothly.
  • Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta holds its texture better in the sauce.
  • Add extra flair: Try adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for variation.

Make It Ahead or Store Leftovers

Storage:

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating:

  • Warm on the stove over medium-low heat. Add a splash of cream or milk to bring the sauce back to life.

Freezing:

  • This dish can be frozen, but note that cream sauces can separate upon thawing. For best results, store in single-portion freezer-safe containers and stir well when reheating.

Variations and Add-Ins

  • Protein substitutes: Try ground turkey, Italian sausage, or diced chicken.
  • Vegetarian option: Skip the meat and double up on veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or peas.
  • Spicy version: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Nutritional Breakdown (Approximate per Serving)

  • Calories: 600–750
  • Protein: 30–35g
  • Carbohydrates: 45–55g
  • Fat: 35–45g
  • Sodium: 500–700mg

Exact values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portions used.

Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Dish

Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta is the kind of dish that hits all the right notes—creamy, savory, and incredibly satisfying. It combines the heartiness of a meat-based pasta, the elegance of Parmesan cheese, and the bold kick of garlic, making it a perfectly balanced comfort meal. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal-prepping for the week, or impressing dinner guests, this recipe delivers every single time.

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