This creamy garlic parmesan bowtie pasta is a comforting dish that brings together tender beef and rich flavors. The bowtie pasta holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly, making each bite delicious!
I love how quick this meal is to whip up after a long day. Pair it with a salad, and you’ve got a tasty dinner that feels fancy without all the fuss. Trust me, you’ll want seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bowtie Pasta: Farfalle pasta, or bowtie, works great here. If you don’t have it, any pasta shape like penne or fusilli will also do well. They hold onto the sauce nicely!
Ground Beef: I prefer ground beef for its ease and flavor, but you can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you want, thinly sliced steak or even a meatless alternative like mushrooms can be great substitutes.
Heavy Cream and Whole Milk: The combination makes the sauce super creamy. If you’re looking for lighter options, try half-and-half instead of heavy cream or use low-fat milk. For dairy-free, almond milk or coconut milk works, but it’s best to use less because they can be thinner.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds wonderful flavor. For a good substitute, consider using Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
How Can I Achieve the Creamiest Sauce?
To get that perfect creamy sauce, it’s essential to heat your liquids gently. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure you don’t boil the heavy cream and milk; just bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the cheese slowly while the sauce is simmering. This helps it melt evenly, creating a smooth texture.
- If the sauce gets too thick, add a little more milk a little at a time until it reaches the creamy consistency you like.
Taking these steps will help you whip up a deliciously creamy sauce, so you can enjoy your pasta even more!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (about 2 1/2 cups) bowtie (farfalle) pasta
For the Beef:
- 1 lb ground beef (or thinly sliced beef strips)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy garlic parmesan bowtie pasta dish will take about 20 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and preparing the beef and sauce, followed by a few minutes to toss it all together and garnish. A quick yet satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. When it’s bubbling, add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Cooking the Beef:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef (or sliced beef) and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper! When done, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside, draining any excess fat if needed.
3. Making the Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once it’s melted, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant—yum!
4. Combining the Ingredients:
Now it’s time to pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring them together. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring, mixing until it’s melted and creates a luscious, creamy sauce. If it looks too thick, don’t worry! Just add a splash of milk to get it to your desired creaminess.
5. Final Steps:
Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked beef back into the skillet. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes at this stage. Stir everything together to combine. Finally, toss in the cooked bowtie pasta, mixing until all the pasta is coated in that yummy creamy sauce.
6. Tasting and Serving:
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious creamy garlic parmesan bowtie pasta with savory beef!
Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie (farfalle) pasta is great for holding the sauce, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
If you want a lighter version, you can use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Additionally, opting for half-and-half instead of heavy cream can reduce the fat content, and you can add extra vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, simply replace the beef with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables. Make sure to use a plant-based cream alternative for the sauce, and you’ll still have a delicious creamy dish!
What’s the Best Way to 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 to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
