Creamy Garlic Parmesan Beef Bowtie Pasta

August 18, 2025

This creamy garlic Parmesan beef bowtie pasta is a winner for dinner! With tender beef cooked in a rich garlic sauce and plenty of cheesy goodness, it’s sure to satisfy everyone.

The fun bowtie pasta adds a playful touch to your meal. I love how quick and easy it is to whip up—perfect for busy nights or when you’re just too hungry to wait!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Bowtie pasta: This fun shape holds the creamy sauce really well! If you can’t find bowtie, feel free to swap in penne, fusilli, or any pasta you have on hand.

Ground beef: I like using lean ground beef for a healthier option, but you can substitute with turkey or chicken for a lighter dish. For vegetarians, try using lentils or a meat substitute!

Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder could work, but you’ll need less of it! About 1 teaspoon should do the trick.

Heavy cream: This is key for a rich, creamy sauce. If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even full-fat milk, but the sauce might be less thick.

Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully into the sauce. In a pinch, you can substitute Pecorino Romano for a slightly saltier flavor.

How Do I Get the Creamy Sauce Just Right?

Making a creamy sauce sounds tricky, but it’s quite simple if you follow these tips! The key is to heat the cream gently and combine it with cheese for the smoothest texture.

  • Always start by sautéing your aromatics (onion and garlic) until they’re soft and fragrant. This adds depth to your sauce.
  • When adding the beef broth, let it simmer a bit to reduce and concentrate the flavor before adding the cream. This step really enhances the richness.
  • Once the cream goes in, try to keep the heat low. If it’s too high, the cream can curdle, and nobody wants that. Stir in the cheese until melted and combined for a smooth consistency.
  • Finally, mix in the cooked pasta and toss it gently to coat. This lets the pasta absorb all that lovely sauce!

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Beef Bowtie Pasta

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Beef Bowtie Pasta

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Pasta:

  • 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)

For the Beef Sauce:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal yet rich enough for a special occasion. Get ready to impress with minimal effort!

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. Drain the pasta and set it aside. While it’s cooking, you can prepare the beef sauce!

2. Sauté Aromatics:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until they become fragrant and the onion is translucent. This step infuses the oil with great flavor!

3. Brown the Beef:

Add the ground beef to the skillet. Season it with salt, pepper, and the dried Italian seasoning. Cook the beef until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. If there’s excess fat, drain it away to keep the dish lighter.

4. Add the Broth:

Next, pour in the beef broth and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop and the mixture to reduce slightly. This adds depth to your sauce!

5. Make it Creamy:

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.

6. Combine with Pasta:

Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet. Gently toss the pasta in the creamy beef sauce until it’s evenly coated. This ensures every bite is deliciously flavored!

7. Garnish and Serve:

Remove the skillet from heat. If you’d like, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a bright, colorful finish. Serve the creamy garlic Parmesan beef bowtie pasta immediately and enjoy this comforting meal!

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Beef Bowtie Pasta

Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?

Absolutely! While bowtie pasta (farfalle) is a fun choice, feel free to substitute with other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the different pasta type.

How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?

If you’d like a lighter version, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Additionally, consider using whole grain pasta for added fiber or substituting half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or Greek yogurt, but keep in mind it may affect the creaminess.

Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer gluten-free bowtie pasta options that work just as well. The rest of the ingredients are typically gluten-free, but always check labels to be sure!

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also microwave it in individual portions.

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