Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce: A Comforting, Flavorful One-Pan Meal
If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and satisfies the entire family, look no further than Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce. This creamy, cheesy pasta recipe combines tender ground beef, perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, and a rich Alfredo sauce for a comforting meal you’ll want to make again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Easy and Quick: With minimal prep and cook time, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
2. Kid-Friendly: The creamy Alfredo sauce and fun bowtie pasta shape make this dish a hit with kids and adults alike.
3. One-Pan Option: With a few adjustments, you can turn this into a one-pan dish for easy cleanup.
4. Customizable: Add veggies or adjust seasonings to make it your own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to create this creamy, flavorful pasta dish:
• 1 lb ground beef: Adds protein and hearty flavor to the dish.
• 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle): The fun shape holds the creamy Alfredo sauce perfectly.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: For cooking the garlic and adding richness.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a savory depth of flavor.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Forms the base of the creamy Alfredo sauce.
• 1 cup beef broth: Adds a rich, meaty flavor to the sauce.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Essential for a classic Alfredo sauce.
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: For added creaminess and a gooey texture.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme to enhance the flavor.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: For seasoning the dish to perfection.
How to Make Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce
Follow these simple steps to create this creamy, delicious pasta dish:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
• Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
• Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles with a spoon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Once cooked, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside, leaving any drippings in the pan.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
• In the same skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
• Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.
• Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
• Add the Italian seasoning and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
Step 4: Combine Everything
• Add the cooked ground beef back into the skillet, stirring to coat it in the Alfredo sauce.
• Gently fold in the cooked bowtie pasta, ensuring every piece is coated in the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
• Serve the pasta hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or fresh parsley, if desired.
Tips for the Best Beef and Bowtie Pasta
1. Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: For the creamiest Alfredo sauce, grate your Parmesan cheese fresh from a block. Pre-grated Parmesan can be grainy and doesn’t melt as smoothly.
2. Cook Pasta Al Dente: To avoid mushy pasta, cook it just until al dente. It will absorb some sauce as it sits.
3. Add Vegetables: For a nutrient boost, toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or steamed broccoli when combining the ingredients.
4. Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
5. One-Pan Option: Cook the ground beef in a deep skillet or Dutch oven, then add the uncooked pasta, beef broth, and cream. Simmer everything together until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is satisfying on its own, but you can elevate the meal with some side dishes:
• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy Alfredo sauce.
• Side Salad: A crisp Caesar salad or a mixed green salad pairs wonderfully with this rich pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts complement the creamy pasta.
Storage and Reheating Tips
• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Freezing: While the pasta and beef freeze well, the Alfredo sauce may separate when thawed. If freezing, allow the dish to cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
Why This Recipe is a Crowd Favorite
Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce combines everything you want in a comforting meal: hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters.
Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a dish for entertaining, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Make It Tonight!
With its rich, creamy sauce and hearty ingredients, Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce is the perfect dish for any occasion. The combination of flavors and textures creates a meal that’s both indulgent and satisfying. So grab your ingredients and treat yourself to this comforting classic—you deserve it!