This creamy garlic parmesan bowtie pasta with beef is a cozy dish that’s hard to resist! The rich sauce and tender beef come together for a comforting meal that’s perfect for any night.
I love making this quick pasta dish when I need something satisfying and delicious. Plus, it’s a great one-pot meal—less cleanup, more yummy time! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bowtie Pasta: This shape holds sauce beautifully! While farfalle is the star here, feel free to swap with penne or fusilli if that’s what you have on hand.
Ground Beef: I love using lean ground beef for a healthier dish. However, turkey or chicken can be good substitutes if you prefer a lighter option!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter feel, you can use half-and-half, or even coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind it might change the flavor slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. If you can’t find it, Pecorino Romano or Nutritional Yeast for a vegan option works too!
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta al dente is key for texture! Here are some tips:
- Always start with plenty of salted water to give your pasta the flavor it needs.
- Once the water reaches a boil, add your pasta and stir to prevent sticking.
- Check the package for cooking times, but taste a piece a minute or two early. It should be firm but not hard.
- Once done, drain it right away and don’t rinse – you want that starch to help the sauce stick!
These steps will help you achieve perfectly cooked bowtie pasta every time!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta
For the Meat and Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare. In that time, you’ll cook the pasta, sauté the beef and garlic, and whip up a creamy delicious sauce. Perfect for a quick and cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add the bowtie pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef into the skillet, season it with salt and pepper, and cook until it’s browned. Make sure to break it apart as it cooks. If there’s excess fat, you can drain it off.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Once the beef is cooked, add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes soft. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring until it smells amazing!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Now, pour in the beef broth (or water) and the heavy cream, stirring well to combine everything. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly.
5. Add the Cheese:
Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
6. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the sauce, tossing it gently to ensure every piece is coated in that creamy goodness. Cook it together for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
7. Serve & Garnish:
Once everything is well mixed, serve the pasta hot. Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a lovely finishing touch!
Enjoy your creamy, garlicky, cheesy bowtie pasta with savory beef! This dish is surely a crowd-pleaser!
FAQ for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Beef
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta adds a nice touch, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or fusilli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, half-and-half works well. For a dairy-free version, try using coconut cream or cashew cream. Keep in mind that this might alter the flavor slightly, but it’ll still be creamy!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in some spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers while cooking the beef. Just sauté them for a few minutes until tender before adding the garlic!