Irresistible Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta
This Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta recipe delivers a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for weeknights. Savory ground beef, aromatic garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese combine in a luscious cream sauce, coating perfectly cooked bowtie pasta for an incredibly satisfying dish.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Colander
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef 80/20
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 pound bowtie pasta farfalle
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
- Drain off any excess grease.
- Stir in the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- Before draining, reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
- In the same skillet you used for the beef, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant (be careful not to burn it!).
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Add the cooked beef and pasta to the sauce.
- Toss to coat everything evenly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
For a richer flavor, use a higher fat content ground beef. Don't overcook the garlic, as it can become bitter. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water or milk to thin it out. To prevent the Parmesan cheese from clumping, reduce the heat to low before adding it to the sauce. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or skillet, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed. Avoid freezing as it may affect the texture of the sauce and pasta. Variations include adding vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can also use different types of pasta or add sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.