This creamy garlic parmesan bowtie pasta with beef is a warm hug on a plate! The yummy sauce is made with garlic and parmesan, making every bite extra tasty.
Who can resist that twirl of bowtie pasta? I love to sprinkle some extra cheese on top—because you can never have too much cheese, right? 😄 This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bowtie Pasta: This recipe uses bowtie pasta, which is fun and holds sauce nicely. If you don’t have bowtie on hand, you can substitute with farfalle, penne, or fusilli. They all work great with creamy sauces!
Ground Beef: Ground beef gives protein and flavor to this dish. You can use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative. For vegetarian options, try using lentils or a meat substitute like crumbled tofu.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter version, use half-and-half or evaporated milk. For dairy-free, coconut cream or cashew cream works too!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor. Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-grated. If you’re out of Parmesan, consider using Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
How to Get That Perfect Creamy Sauce?
Creating a smooth, creamy sauce can be tricky, but with a few simple steps, you can nail it!
- Start with low heat before adding heavy cream. This prevents the cream from curdling.
- Gradually add the cheese while stirring to ensure it melts evenly without clumps.
- If the sauce thickens too much, don’t hesitate to add milk! It helps to achieve the perfect consistency.
Remember, tasting along the way is key! Adjust seasonings as needed for a delicious result.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) bowtie (farfalle) pasta
For the Beef 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
- 1/2 cup milk (optional, for thinning sauce)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano/basil
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 25-30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes on prep and about 15-20 minutes cooking. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the bowtie pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
While your pasta is cooking, heat three tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. Now, toss in the minced garlic and give it a stir. Cook for about 1 minute, just until the garlic is fragrant—be careful not to let it burn!
3. Brown the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart using a spoon or spatula and cook it until it’s nice and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Season the beef with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. This is where your dish starts smelling amazing!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Once the beef is fully cooked, reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. If you find the sauce too thick for your liking, add milk a little at a time until it’s just right!
5. Combine Everything:
Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and gently toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the creamy beef sauce.
6. Final Touches:
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Once you’re happy with the flavor, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve your creamy garlic parmesan bowtie pasta hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese on top if you like.
Enjoy your creamy, garlicky, cheesy bowtie pasta with beef! It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta (farfalle) works great, you can substitute with any pasta you have on hand, such as penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just follow the cooking time on the package for the best results!
Can I Make This Recipe with Ground Turkey or Chicken?
Yes, you can! Ground turkey or chicken is a healthier alternative and will work perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning slightly, as they may be milder in flavor compared to ground beef.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to help restore the creamy texture.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! To make this recipe vegetarian, you can replace the ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat substitute. Just sauté them the same way you would the beef for a delicious vegetarian option!
