This creamy garlic parmesan bowtie pasta with beef is a warm hug on a plate! It combines tender pasta with juicy beef and a rich, comforting sauce that’s packed with flavor.
Who doesn’t love a dish that twirls nicely on the fork? I can never resist a second helping. It’s quick to make too—perfect for busy nights when you still want something tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bowtie Pasta: Bowtie pasta, or farfalle, is perfect for holding onto that creamy sauce. If you can’t find it, you can easily substitute with penne or fusilli. Both hold sauces well and have a nice bite.
Ground Beef: I love ground beef for its rich flavor, but you can use turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Thick slices of steak also work if you prefer a heartier texture.
Heavy Cream: The heavy cream gives richness to the dish. If you want a lighter version, half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but the sauce may be less creamy. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream or a plant-based cream.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan provides a salty, nutty flavor. If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) can be great substitutes.
Beef Broth: I like to use beef broth for extra flavor, but chicken or vegetable broth works just as well if you’re looking for something lighter or vegetarian.
How Do I Make the Sauce Creamy Without Clumps?
The key to a smooth, creamy sauce is to keep it moving! When adding the cheese to the cream sauce, follow these steps:
- Make sure your heat is low enough to prevent boiling—this stops the cream from separating.
- Add the grated cheese in small handfuls, stirring constantly to help it melt evenly.
- If you notice clumps forming, whisking vigorously can help break them down!
Also, remember that the sauce thickens as you simmer, so don’t be afraid to adjust with a bit more broth if it’s too thick.
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:
- 1 lb ground beef (or thinly sliced beef strips)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp butter
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
You will need about 30 minutes in total. This includes 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients and cook the beef, along with another 15 minutes to make the sauce and combine everything with the pasta. It’s a quick and delightful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). After it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cook the Beef:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and season it with salt and black pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Once ready, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, turn the heat down to medium and add the butter. Once it’s melted, toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant.
4. Make it Creamy:
Pour in the beef broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom. Then, stir in the heavy cream and bring it all to a gentle simmer. Let it reduce slightly for about 3-4 minutes to thicken up.
5. Combine Everything:
Lower the heat and gradually add in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until it’s melted and the sauce is creamy. If you’d like a bit of heat, feel free to add the red pepper flakes. Taste your sauce and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.
6. Finish the Dish:
Return the cooked beef to the skillet and stir to combine everything. Then, add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing it well to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil, serve immediately, and enjoy your creamy, cheesy garlic parmesan bowtie pasta with beef!
FAQ about Creamy Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Beef
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Yes, you can definitely use whole wheat bowtie pasta! It will add a nuttier flavor and increase the fiber content, but keep in mind that it may require a slightly longer cooking time. Just check the package instructions to be sure.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make this dish vegetarian, you can swap the ground beef for mushrooms, lentils, or a meat substitute like tofu or tempeh. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to maintain the depth of flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the creamy consistency if needed. You can also microwave it, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Dish?
Definitely! You can add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the onions in step 3, or toss them in just before adding the beef back in so they soften slightly.
