Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta

When the weather is chilly or you’re craving something rich and satisfying, there’s nothing quite like a plate of creamy pasta to lift your spirits. Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that combines the perfect balance of savory beef, garlicky goodness, and a smooth, rich sauce. Whether it’s a quiet dinner at home or a weekend gathering with friends, this dish promises to delight your taste buds and impress your guests.

The inspiration behind this recipe comes from the classic love for pasta and the desire to elevate the simple, comforting flavors of garlic, beef, and Parmesan. By adding a bit of Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika, we’ve turned a traditional pasta dish into a memorable feast that’s perfect for any time of year. With just a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a rich, indulgent meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty, yet easy-to-make meal that brings together all the flavors you crave, this Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta will quickly become your go-to recipe. Here’s why:

  • Rich, Creamy Sauce: The combination of butter, beef broth, and Parmesan creates a luxurious, velvety sauce that coats every bite of pasta. The added half-and-half (or whole milk) ensures the sauce is perfectly creamy, with just the right amount of thickness.
  • Flavorful Beef: Ground beef is cooked with garlic, onion, and spices, making it flavorful and aromatic. The Worcestershire sauce adds a depth of umami, while the smoked paprika offers a touch of smokiness that makes this dish stand out.
  • Simple Ingredients: With everyday ingredients like garlic, Parmesan, and pasta, this recipe is not only easy to make but also affordable. The addition of fresh parsley and red pepper flakes gives it a lovely pop of color and a little kick of spice.
  • Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy nights or when you want to treat yourself to something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you get started, make sure you have all the ingredients on hand. Here’s everything you need to create the creamy, savory goodness of Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta:

  • 1 lb ground beef – This forms the heart of the dish, providing flavor and texture.
  • 3 teaspoons olive oil – For sautéing the beef and adding a touch of richness.
  • 5-6 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic is the flavor base of this dish and brings out the savory notes.
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped – Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – A savory, umami-packed addition to the beef.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Brings a hint of Mediterranean herbs for balance.
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a subtle smoky flavor that elevates the entire dish.
  • 3 tablespoons butter – For richness and to help create a creamy sauce.
  • 3 cups beef broth – Provides a savory base for the sauce.
  • 8 oz Bowtie Pasta – Bowtie pasta (also known as farfalle) works perfectly to hold onto the creamy sauce, but any pasta can be used.
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – The star ingredient for that cheesy, creamy texture.
  • 3/4 cup half and half (or whole milk) – To make the sauce creamy and smooth.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt – Adjust to taste, as it brings out the flavors in the dish.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – For a mild heat and to enhance the savory flavors.
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes – Adds a bit of heat and a pop of color.
  • 1-2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped – For a fresh, green garnish that brightens up the dish.

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta

Making this creamy pasta dish is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps, and in just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve.

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat 3 teaspoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat if necessary to keep the dish from becoming too greasy.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Onion

Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef, cooking for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This step infuses the beef with aromatic flavors and builds the base for the sauce.

Step 3: Add the Seasonings

Stir in 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika. Let the mixture cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to combine and infuse the beef mixture with deep, savory goodness.

Step 4: Create the Sauce Base

Add 3 tablespoons butter to the skillet and let it melt into the mixture. Once melted, pour in 3 cups beef broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the broth to reduce slightly and intensify in flavor.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce is simmering, cook the bowtie pasta in a separate pot according to the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. If you like, you can toss a little olive oil on the pasta to keep it from sticking together.

Step 6: Add Cream and Parmesan

Once the broth has reduced slightly, stir in 3/4 cup half-and-half (or whole milk) and 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until the sauce becomes creamy, and the cheese melts into a velvety texture. The sauce should be smooth and coat the back of a spoon.

Step 7: Season and Spice It Up

Now it’s time to season the sauce. Add 1/2 teaspoon salt1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld for another 2-3 minutes. The sauce should be well-seasoned and slightly spicy, balanced by the richness of the cheese.

Step 8: Toss the Pasta in the Sauce

Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss it well, ensuring that every piece is coated in the creamy, garlicky sauce. Continue stirring until everything is evenly mixed and the pasta absorbs some of the sauce.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Serve your Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. The parsley not only adds a bright green contrast but also enhances the flavor with a fresh, herbaceous note.

Tips for the Perfect Pasta

To make this recipe even better, here are a few tips to ensure everything turns out perfectly:

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan – For the best flavor and texture, always opt for freshly grated Parmesan. Pre-grated cheese can be a bit grainy and less flavorful.
  • Adjust the seasoning – Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to suit your preferences. Every palate is different!
  • Add more veggies – If you’d like to bulk up the dish with more veggies, consider adding spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the beef mixture for added color and nutrition.
  • Make it spicier – If you love heat, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes or even add a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta is a complete meal in itself, but if you’d like to add a little more to your plate, consider serving it with one of these sides:

  • Garlic bread: A classic side dish that’s perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
  • Caesar salad: Crisp greens and tangy dressing complement the rich, creamy pasta.
  • Roasted vegetables: A light and healthy side, like roasted broccoli or asparagus, will balance out the richness of the dish.

Why This Recipe is a Winner

Whether you’re cooking for a busy family weeknight or planning a cozy dinner with friends, this Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta is the kind of dish that brings people together. The hearty, savory beef combined with the creamy, cheesy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta makes for a meal that’s both satisfying and indulgent.

Not only does it have all the flavors you crave, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. With just one skillet and a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that feels like it’s straight out of a restaurant kitchen. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your tastes, whether you prefer extra spice or more veggies.

So why wait? Gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and enjoy a comforting bowl of Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta tonight!

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Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta


  • Author: lina
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x

Description

When the weather is chilly or you’re craving something rich and satisfying, there’s nothing quite like a plate of creamy pasta to lift your spirits. Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that combines the perfect balance of savory beef, garlicky goodness, and a smooth, rich sauce. Whether it’s a quiet dinner at home or a weekend gathering with friends, this dish promises to delight your taste buds and impress your guests.


Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef
3 teaspoons olive oil
56 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
3 tablespoons butter
3 cups beef broth
8 oz Bowtie Pasta
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
3/4 cup half and half (or whole milk)
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
12 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped


Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat if necessary.
  2. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent, and the garlic is fragrant.
  3. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Let the mixture cook for another minute to combine the flavors.
  4. Add butter to the skillet and allow it to melt, then pour in the beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
  5. Meanwhile, cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions in a separate pot, draining once cooked and setting it aside.
  6. Once the broth has reduced a bit, stir in the half and half (or whole milk), and add in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce becomes creamy and the cheese has melted.
  7. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld together for another 2-3 minutes.
  8. Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Continue stirring until the pasta is evenly coated and everything is well mixed.
  9. Serve the creamy Parmesan garlic beef bowtie pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor.
  • Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired.
  • Add extra veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a heartier dish.
  • If you like more heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

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