Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta is the kind of weeknight dinner that makes everyone happy. It’s rich, hearty, and ready in about 30 minutes. Ground beef, garlic, and Parmesan blend into a silky sauce that coats every bowtie perfectly. Everything cooks in one pan, so you get big flavor with little cleanup. The beef adds depth, the garlic builds warmth, and the Parmesan brings that creamy finish that makes this dish unforgettable.
This recipe is simple, fast, and full of comfort. Whether you’re cooking for family or planning an easy dinner after a long day, this pasta delivers flavor in every bite. Serve it straight from the skillet while it’s hot and creamy.
Table of Contents
Why This Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta Works
Sometimes a recipe just clicks the first time you make it. Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta is one of those dishes that proves comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s rich, flavorful, and ready fast, yet tastes like it simmered all afternoon.
The Flavor Foundation
- Ground beef builds a savory base that gives the sauce real depth.
- Garlic fills the kitchen with warmth and adds a layer of irresistible flavor.
- Parmesan cheese melts smoothly into a creamy, salty finish that ties it all together.
- Beef broth infuses the pasta with slow-cooked richness in a fraction of the time.
The Perfect Texture
- Cooking bowtie pasta directly in the broth makes it tender and full of flavor.
- Butter and half-and-half blend into a silky sauce that coats every piece perfectly.
- The pasta’s shape traps bits of beef and sauce, giving every bite that satisfying mix of creamy and hearty.
If you love hearty, savory dinners, you’ll want to try this classic Salisbury steak with brown gravy. It’s rich, full of flavor, and pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes for a cozy family meal.
Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta
Equipment
- large skillet
- cutting board
- chef’s knife
- wooden spoon
- measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3 teaspoons olive oil
- 5–6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 3 cups beef broth
- 8 ounces bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 0.75 cup half and half (or whole milk)
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 0.5 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1–2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon for flavor.
- Add the chopped onion and cook for 2 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and cook for 1 minute to blend flavors.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Add the bowtie pasta, stirring to submerge it evenly. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally.
- Once pasta is cooked, reduce heat to low. Stir in butter, half and half, and grated Parmesan. Mix gently until cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth or milk.
- Remove from heat, stir in chopped parsley, and serve immediately. Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top if desired.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest, creamiest sauce.
- If your sauce gets too thick, add a splash of beef broth or milk to loosen it.
- For extra vegetables, stir in peas, spinach, or mushrooms during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Whole milk can replace half and half for a lighter version; heavy cream for a richer one.
- The pasta continues to absorb sauce as it cools, so reheat with a touch of liquid for best texture.
- Serve hot and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 590 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Fat | 32 g |
| Saturated Fat | 14 g |
| Cholesterol | 95 mg |
| Sodium | 780 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Calcium | 280 mg |
| Iron | 3.8 mg |
Ingredients You’ll Need for Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta
You don’t need fancy ingredients to make Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta taste amazing. Everything on this list is simple, affordable, and probably already in your kitchen. What makes it special is how these everyday ingredients blend into a rich, creamy sauce that’s hard to resist.
Main Ingredients
- Ground beef (1 pound): The heart of this recipe. It adds rich, savory flavor and gives the sauce its meaty depth.
- Olive oil (3 teaspoons): Helps brown the beef evenly and adds a subtle, smooth finish to the sauce.
- Garlic (5–6 cloves, minced): The star of the dish. Fresh garlic gives this pasta its signature aroma and taste.
- Onion (1 small, finely chopped): Adds a touch of sweetness that balances the salty Parmesan and beef.
- Beef broth (3 cups): Infuses the pasta with flavor as it cooks, creating a base for the creamy sauce.
- Bowtie pasta (8 ounces): The pasta shape holds sauce beautifully in its folds, giving every bite creamy flavor.
Seasoning and Flavor Boosters
- Worcestershire sauce (1 teaspoon): Adds a hint of umami that makes the beef taste deeper and more complex.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Brings balance with herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme.
- Smoked paprika (½ teaspoon): Adds warmth and a subtle smoky note.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Simple but essential for bringing all the flavors together.
- Red pepper flakes (½ teaspoon): Gives a mild kick and a nice contrast to the creamy sauce.
Creamy Finish
- Butter (3 tablespoons): Adds body and richness, turning the sauce smooth and velvety.
- Half and half (¾ cup): Creates the creamy texture without being too heavy. You can swap for whole milk if preferred.
- Parmesan cheese (1 cup, freshly grated): The ingredient that ties everything together. It melts beautifully for that signature creamy coating.
- Fresh parsley (1–2 tablespoons, chopped): Adds color, freshness, and a hint of brightness to balance the richness.
Pantry Tips
- Always grate Parmesan fresh from a block; it melts better than pre-grated cheese.
- Choose low-sodium beef broth to control salt levels.
- If your pasta sauce thickens too much, loosen it with a splash of broth or milk before serving.
When you’re craving something bold and cheesy, these easy ground beef enchiladas are a must. They bake up bubbling hot with layers of beef, cheese, and soft tortillas everyone will devour.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta
Making Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta couldn’t be easier. Everything comes together in one pan, from browning the beef to melting the Parmesan. Follow these steps for creamy perfection every time.
Brown the beef
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink.
- Leave about one tablespoon of the drippings for flavor and discard the rest.
Add onion and garlic
- Stir in the finely chopped onion and cook for two minutes until soft.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Be careful not to let the garlic brown, or it may turn bitter.
Season for flavor
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Mix well to coat the beef evenly.
- Cook for one minute to bloom the spices and release flavor.
Add broth and pasta
- Pour in the beef broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add bowtie pasta directly to the broth. Stir well so the pasta is submerged.
- Cover and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
Create the creamy sauce
- Reduce heat to low. Add butter and let it melt into the pasta.
- Pour in the half and half, then sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
- Stir slowly until the cheese melts and the sauce turns smooth and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve and enjoy
- Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley.
- Serve hot, straight from the skillet, with extra Parmesan on the side.
Quick Tips for Success
- Stir often while the pasta cooks to prevent sticking.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it.
- Grate your own Parmesan for the smoothest sauce texture.
- For a spicier version, increase red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne.
Tips, Variations & Serving Ideas for Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta
Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta is simple to make, but a few smart tricks can take it from great to unforgettable. Here’s how to keep the sauce creamy, adjust flavors for your family, and serve it like a pro.
Smart Cooking Tips
- Stir the pasta often while simmering so it absorbs flavor evenly and doesn’t stick to the pan.
- Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese; it melts smoothly and creates a creamier texture.
- Keep the heat low when adding dairy to prevent curdling or separation.
- If your sauce thickens too much, loosen it with a splash of milk or beef broth.
- For extra creaminess, add one more tablespoon of butter at the end.
Easy Variations
- Lighter version: Swap half and half for whole milk and use lean ground beef or ground turkey.
- Vegetable boost: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or peas during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Spicy twist: Add diced jalapeño or increase the red pepper flakes for more heat.
- Gluten-free option: Substitute with your favorite gluten-free bowtie or penne pasta.
- Cheesy upgrade: Mix in shredded mozzarella for a stretchier sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this creamy beef pasta with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal.
- A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil brightens the dish and adds color to your presentation.
- Pair it with roasted vegetables for an easy family dinner.
- For gatherings, serve it directly from the skillet for that rustic, homey feel everyone loves.
Storage and Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of broth or milk to keep the sauce creamy.
- This pasta is perfect for meal prep and reheats beautifully for lunch the next day.
Frequently Asked Questions about Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta
1. Can I use another type of meat for this Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta?
Yes, this recipe works well with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground alternatives. If you use a leaner meat, add an extra tablespoon of olive oil to keep the sauce rich and flavorful.
2. What can I substitute for half and half?
Whole milk will create a lighter sauce, while heavy cream will make it extra rich. For a dairy-free option, unsweetened oat or cashew milk can be used, though the sauce may be slightly thinner.
3. How can I make this pasta gluten-free?
Simply swap regular bowtie pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. Cooking times can vary, so check the package instructions and adjust liquid amounts as needed to maintain the creamy texture.
4. Can I prepare this Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta ahead of time?
Yes. Cook the dish as directed, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat over low heat with a splash of broth or milk to revive the sauce.
5. What vegetables go well with this dish?
Spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or peas make excellent add-ins. For extra color and sweetness, sauté diced bell peppers along with the onions.
Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta is everything a weeknight dinner should be — fast, satisfying, and packed with flavor. It’s a one-pan wonder that turns simple ingredients into something special. The garlic brings warmth, the Parmesan adds richness, and the beef makes it hearty enough for everyone at the table.
This dish has become a family favorite in my kitchen because it checks every box: comforting, creamy, and foolproof. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just trying to get dinner on the table after a long day, this recipe guarantees empty plates and full smiles.