Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta: A Comforting Classic

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a big bowl of pasta slathered in a creamy sauce, especially when it’s loaded with garlic and topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta is the recipe you turn to when you want a quick, hearty meal that the whole family will love. As someone who’s made this dish countless times, I can confidently say it hits all the right notes on a busy weeknight or even during a cozy weekend gathering.

Why Make This Recipe

What Makes This Recipe Special

This dish stands out as not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s budget-friendly, utilizing ground beef and pantry staples, which makes it an ideal choice for a satisfying dinner that doesn’t break the bank. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder that provides creamy comfort without the fuss of elaborate cooking techniques.

"This recipe is hands down my favorite weeknight dinner! It’s quick, simple to prepare, and tastes like it’s from a restaurant. My kids go back for seconds every time!" — A happy home cook

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Cooking this delightful pasta dish is a breeze. Prepare to savor the flavors with just a few straightforward steps. You’ll start by browning the beef and building a flavorful sauce, followed by cooking the pasta and combining everything into a creamy masterpiece.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Everything You Need for This Recipe

1 lb ground beef
3 teaspoons olive oil
5–6 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
3 tablespoons butter
3 cups beef broth
8 oz Bowtie Pasta
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
3/4 cup half and half (or whole milk)
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1–2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Feel free to substitute half and half with whole milk for a lighter option and green onions for parsley if you prefer a different flavor.

Directions

Step-by-Step Directions

Heat the Oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil.
Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef and cook until browned, using a spatula to crumble it. Drain any excess fat.
Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft.
Add Seasonings: Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute.
Incorporate Butter and Broth: Add the butter, allowing it to melt. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a gentle simmer for 3-4 minutes.
Cook Pasta: While the broth simmers, cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make it Creamy: Stir half and half and freshly grated Parmesan into the skillet. Mix until creamy.
Season: Adjust flavors with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Let it meld for 2-3 minutes.
Combine: Toss the cooked bowtie pasta in the sauce, ensuring it’s well coated.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy!

Best Way to Serve

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta shines as a standalone dish, but it can be paired with a crisp green salad or warm garlic bread to round out your meal. For a burst of color and texture, consider serving it with steamed broccoli or a light roasted vegetable medley.

How to Store

Best Way to Store Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta

To keep your delicious pasta fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portions. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth and stir well to restore the creamy texture. Always ensure the dish is heated to an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.

Pro Chef Tips

Tips and Tricks

If you prefer an extra touch of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic and onion.
For a lower-carb alternative, swap the bowtie pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
Experiment with cheeses! A blend of mozzarella or cream cheese can add distinct creaminess.

Creative Twists

Recipe Variations

Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe! You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Try adding spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition, or switch up the herbs with fresh basil or oregano for a different flavor profile.

Your Questions Answered

FAQ

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape would work, but cooking times may vary.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it holds up nicely in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prepping.
How can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the beef broth is also gluten-free.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Bell peppers, peas, or spinach can make lovely additions for color and nutrition.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Gently microwave or heat on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.

Dive into this comforting dish and enjoy the creamy, garlic-infused goodness that makes weeknight meals something special!

Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta

Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Description

A comforting classic pasta dish featuring creamy sauce, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef
3 teaspoons olive oil
5–6 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
3 tablespoons butter
3 cups beef broth
8 oz Bowtie Pasta
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
3/4 cup half and half (or whole milk)
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1–2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, crumbling it with a spatula. Drain excess fat.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft.
Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute.
Add the butter, allowing it to melt. Pour in the beef broth and simmer for 3-4 minutes.
Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Stir in half and half and Parmesan into the skillet; mix until creamy.
Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Let it meld for 2-3 minutes.
Combine the cooked bowtie pasta in the sauce, ensuring it’s well coated.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing in portions. Reheat gently with a splash of beef broth to maintain creaminess.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: pasta, beef, creamy, garlic, quick dinner