Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta – Quick Comfort Food Favorite
There is something about Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta that feels like a hug in a bowl. I remember the first time I made it on a rainy evening when the whole house smelled of garlic sizzling in butter. The sauce was silky, the beef perfectly seasoned, and the bowtie pasta held every bit of flavor in its little ridges. That night, this dish became one of my go-to quick and easy dinner recipes on the go.
If you’ve ever asked yourself “what can I make with ground beef and pasta?” this recipe is your answer. With a handful of pantry staples, you get a creamy, hearty, and completely satisfying dinner for three easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight.
Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil bowtie pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook ground beef with onion until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Add minced garlic to the beef mixture and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and reserved pasta water. Stir well, then add Parmesan cheese and mix until fully melted into a creamy sauce.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve warm.
Nutrition
Notes
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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Parm Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta
- Perfect balance of creamy garlic sauce and savory beef.
- Bowtie pasta traps every bit of Parmesan goodness.
- Ready in 30 minutes, making it a quick recipe with ground beef.
- Comfort food that doubles as elegant enough for guests.
- A flexible choice for dinners with heavy cream or lighter options.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into this creamy garlic beef bow tie pasta. Substitutions are included to make it fit any pantry:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes & Substitutions |
| Ground beef | 1 pound | Swap with ground turkey or chicken |
| Bowtie pasta (farfalle) | 12 oz | Penne or rigatoni works too |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | Butter for richer flavor |
| Garlic cloves | 4, minced | Adjust to taste |
| Onion | 1 medium, diced | Optional for extra sweetness |
| Heavy cream | 1 ½ cups | Half-and-half for lighter version |
| Parmesan cheese | 1 cup, grated | Freshly grated works best |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp | Add red pepper flakes for heat |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | Season as you cook |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tbsp, chopped | For garnish |
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta With Beef
- Cook the pasta: Boil bowtie pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
- Brown the beef: In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook ground beef with onion until browned and crumbly. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for one minute until fragrant.
- Make it creamy: Pour in heavy cream and reserved pasta water. Stir well, then add Parmesan cheese until melted into a silky sauce.
- Combine: Toss in the cooked bowtie pasta, coating every piece with the creamy Parmesan garlic sauce.
- Finish & serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
This creamy ground beef bow tie pasta comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Beef Bow Tie Pasta
This pasta is versatile and pairs beautifully with sides. Serve it with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. In the summer, pair it with a chilled cucumber salad. During the holidays, serve it alongside roasted Brussels sprouts for a heartier Christmas table spread.
Tips to Perfect Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best creamy texture.
- Add pasta water slowly to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
- For richer flavor, finish with a pat of butter before serving.
- Turn it into a quick and easy dinner recipe on the go by prepping onions and garlic ahead of time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta: Always cook until just al dente since it will finish in the sauce.
- Using pre-shredded Parmesan: It doesn’t melt as smoothly and may make the sauce grainy.
- Skipping pasta water: The starch helps the sauce cling to the pasta.
- Adding garlic too early: Burnt garlic will overpower the dish.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
This creamy Parm garlic beef bowtie pasta keeps well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Store in an airtight container.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.
- Freezer: Not recommended because cream sauces can separate, but the beef and pasta base can be frozen without the cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, though it won’t be as rich. Whole milk or evaporated milk works best.
What other cheeses can I use?
Mozzarella or Asiago blend beautifully with Parmesan for extra cheesiness.
Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
Absolutely. Store cooked pasta separately from the sauce, then combine before serving.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the mild creamy garlic sauce makes it one of the easiest dinners with heavy cream to please picky eaters.
Conclusion
Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta is the ultimate comfort dish that’s quick, easy, and full of flavor. It’s proof that creamy ground beef bow tie pasta can be both weeknight-friendly and dinner-party worthy. Save this recipe for your next busy evening and share it with friends who are always asking what can I make with ground beef and pasta.
