Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta
Introduction
Indulge in a rich and comforting dish with this Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta! Combining tender ground beef, a luscious garlic-Parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, this recipe is a perfect weeknight dinner that feels like a restaurant-quality meal. The creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and savory garlic flavor make it an instant favorite for the whole family.
This dish is hearty, satisfying, and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy nights when you want something homemade but effortless. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just meal-prepping for the week, this pasta recipe is sure to become a staple in your rotation!
Origin and Cultural Significance
This recipe draws inspiration from Italian-American cuisine, where creamy pasta dishes have become a household favorite. While traditional Italian pasta recipes often focus on olive oil-based sauces, the American influence has popularized rich, cheesy, and creamy variations like Alfredo and Parmesan-based sauces.
Adding ground beef to pasta is a common practice in many cultures, from Italian ragù to American beef stroganoff. This dish brings together the hearty, meaty flavor of beef with the creamy, garlicky sauce and the distinct shape of bowtie pasta (farfalle)—which holds onto the sauce beautifully.
Over time, creamy Parmesan pasta dishes have become a staple in family dinners, restaurant menus, and comfort food recipes worldwide. This version, with beef and garlic, is a twist on classic creamy pasta recipes, offering bold flavors and a satisfying bite in every forkful.
Ingredients
For the Pasta & Meat:
• 12 oz (340g) bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if using leaner meat)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Creamy Parmesan Garlic Sauce:
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (480ml) milk (whole milk or half-and-half for creamier sauce)
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a slight kick)
Optional Additions for Extra Flavor
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (adds depth and umami)
• 1 cup spinach or kale (for extra greens and nutrients)
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (adds a tangy-sweet flavor)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a smoky depth to the beef)
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese (for extra cheesiness)
Tips for Success
✔ Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-packaged Parmesan doesn’t melt as smoothly. Freshly grated Parmesan creates a silkier sauce.
✔ Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the bowtie pasta al dente so it holds up well in the creamy sauce.
✔ Reserve Pasta Water: Adding ½ cup of reserved pasta water can help loosen the sauce if needed.
✔ Sauté Garlic First: Cooking garlic in butter enhances its flavor before making the roux.
✔ Let the Sauce Thicken: Simmer for a few minutes after adding the cheese to get a velvety consistency.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
4. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until browned (about 5-7 minutes). If using leaner meat, add 1 tablespoon olive oil before cooking.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Drain excess grease if needed.
6. Remove beef from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Garlic Sauce
7. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
8. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
9. Stir in flour and cook for another 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly to create a roux.
10. Slowly pour in milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
11. Bring to a simmer, then add grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Everything
12. Add the cooked ground beef back into the sauce and stir to combine.
13. Toss in the cooked bowtie pasta, coating it well in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
14. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes for the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
15. Remove from heat and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, or a sprinkle of black pepper.
16. Serve hot and enjoy your Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta!
Description: What to Expect from This Dish
This pasta dish is a perfect balance of richness and heartiness. The creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce clings to the bowtie pasta, while the savory ground beef adds depth and texture. The dish is smooth, cheesy, and full of umami, making it an irresistible comfort meal.
✔ Creamy & Cheesy – The Parmesan-based sauce is ultra-rich.
✔ Savory & Garlicky – Garlic enhances the bold flavors.
✔ Filling & Satisfying – Ground beef makes it a protein-packed meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate for 6 Servings)
• Calories: 550
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
This dish is high in protein and healthy fats, making it a great meal option for those looking to stay full longer.
Conclusion and Recommendation
If you love creamy pasta dishes but want something a little heartier and more flavorful, this Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta is a must-try. It’s easy to make, packed with protein, and bursting with cheesy, garlicky goodness.
✔ Perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners
✔ Great for meal prepping – reheats beautifully!
✔ Customizable with vegetables or extra spices
✔ A fantastic alternative to Alfredo or beef stroganoff
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While this dish is rich and indulgent, you can make healthier modifications without sacrificing flavor:
• Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for extra fiber and protein.
• Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce.
• Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
• Add spinach, kale, or bell peppers for extra vitamins and minerals.
At its core, this dish is about enjoying comforting, homemade food while keeping it nutrient-rich and satisfying. Treat yourself to this creamy, cheesy, and ultra-flavorful pasta—because sometimes, indulgence is part of a balanced diet!
Let me know if you try it, and happy cooking!