Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta

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Rich, comforting, and absolutely packed with flavor, Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta is the kind of weeknight dinner that feels like a warm hug. With tender bowtie pasta smothered in a luscious garlic-parmesan cream sauce and hearty ground beef, it delivers everything you want in a satisfying, home-cooked meal.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving a creamy pasta dish, this one ticks all the boxes. It’s easy to make, ready in under 30 minutes, and pairs perfectly with a simple salad or garlic bread.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta

This pasta dish has that perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness. The garlic and parmesan bring out bold, rich flavors, while the ground beef adds protein and texture that make the meal feel complete. It’s an ideal combination for those seeking comforting pasta ideas without spending hours in the kitchen.

The bowtie pasta holds onto the sauce beautifully, making every bite rich and satisfying. Plus, it’s family-friendly, affordable, and uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Creamy Dishes Like This?

Bowtie pasta (farfalle) is a great choice for creamy sauces because its unique shape traps the sauce in all its folds and crevices. But you can easily substitute it with penne, rotini, or even fettuccine if that’s what you have on hand.

The key is choosing a pasta that has texture or ridges to help grab onto the creamy garlic parmesan sauce—smooth pastas tend to let the sauce slide right off. For an extra flavor boost, try using a pasta made with egg or one that’s bronze-cut for better sauce absorption.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta

Each ingredient in this dish plays a key role in creating the rich, satisfying flavor you’ll crave again and again. Let’s take a closer look at why they matter:

• Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle): This fun, pinched pasta holds creamy sauces like a pro. It adds visual appeal and helps catch bits of beef and cheese in every bite.
• Ground Beef: Lean ground beef adds savory depth and heartiness to the dish. It makes the pasta more filling and provides that satisfying meaty base.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic richness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Heavy Cream: The backbone of the creamy sauce. It brings a luscious texture that perfectly coats the pasta.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan melts into the sauce for sharp, nutty flavor and silky texture. Use freshly grated for the best result.
• Butter: Adds richness and a silky finish to the sauce. It also helps with sautéing the garlic and beef.
• Salt and Pepper: Basic but essential. They balance and boost all the flavors in the dish.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): For garnish and a pop of color. It adds a hint of freshness that balances the creamy sauce.

How To Make the Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta

Making this dish is simple and doesn’t require expert cooking skills. Just follow the steps below to bring it all together:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and no longer pink. Season with salt and pepper. Remove any excess grease.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Add butter to the skillet with the cooked beef. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat to medium. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the beef and garlic. Let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Add Parmesan Cheese

Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the sauce thickens and the cheese has fully melted.

Step 6: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the sauce and toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated and heated through.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired. A crack of black pepper on top brings everything together.

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Serving and Storing Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta

This dish is hearty enough to serve on its own, but it’s also versatile enough to be part of a bigger meal. It serves 4 to 6 people, making it perfect for families or small gatherings.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it, but stirring halfway through ensures even heating.

While it’s not ideal for freezing due to the creamy sauce, you can freeze it if needed. Just know the texture may change slightly upon thawing.

What to Serve With Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta?

To create a complete and balanced meal, pair your creamy beef pasta with one of these simple and delicious sides:

Garlic Bread

A crispy, buttery slice of garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce. It adds a satisfying crunch that complements the creaminess.

Caesar Salad

The tangy dressing and crunchy romaine lettuce in a Caesar salad help cut through the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Vegetables

Think broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts roasted in olive oil and herbs. Their earthy flavor pairs beautifully with the cheesy sauce.

Caprese Salad

Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add a refreshing contrast to the warm pasta.

Steamed Green Beans

A light and healthy option that still delivers texture and color to your plate.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While bowtie pasta (farfalle) is great for holding creamy sauces, you can easily use penne, rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just be sure to cook it al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when tossed with the sauce.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this is a great make-ahead meal. Prepare the pasta and sauce, then store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat them together in a pan over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to bring it back to its original creaminess.

Is there a way to lighten this dish up?

For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, and use reduced-fat parmesan. You could also swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to reduce the fat content.

What if I don’t have fresh garlic?

No problem. You can use garlic powder in a pinch—about 1 teaspoon should do the trick. However, fresh garlic will always deliver the best flavor and aroma.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Yes! This recipe scales beautifully. Just double all the ingredients and be sure to use a large enough skillet or pot to accommodate the extra volume. It’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or meal prepping.

For more pasta inspiration, check out our One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta or explore our collection of easy dinner ideas.

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