Ah, the delightful aroma of garlic dancing through the kitchen! This Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta has a beautiful backstory that warms the heart. I still remember the first time I made it – a chilly evening when friends came over for dinner. As the beef sizzled in the skillet and the garlic offered its gentle embrace, the cozy vibes of the kitchen enveloped us all. The laughter around the table mixed with the decadent scent of cream and cheese wafting through the air, creating a memory I cherish every time I prepare this dish. The rich flavors, the creamy texture – oh, it’s pure comfort food! I promise you, this recipe will whisk you away to a place where the world feels just a bit better, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Perfect for weeknight dinners, this dish comes together quickly without sacrificing flavor.
• Flavorful: The blend of Parmesan and garlic creates a creamy, savory sauce that clings deliciously to every bowtie.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Whether for family or friends, this pasta dish is sure to have everyone asking for seconds!
• Comfort Food: It’s the ultimate in cozy, hearty meals that leave you feeling satisfied.
• Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy that first delicious bite!

Recipe Snapshot

| Category | Cuisine | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Yield | Skill Level |
|——————-|—————-|———–|———–|————|——-|—————-|
| Dinner | Italian | 10 mins | 20 mins | 30 mins | 4 servings | Easy |

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef: Adds rich flavor and protein.
• 3 teaspoons olive oil: For sautéing; use a good quality oil for better taste.
• 5–6 cloves garlic, minced: The star of this dish; fresh garlic infuses amazing flavor!
• 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Brings a hint of umami that enhances the beef’s flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A classic blend that adds warmth and aroma.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Lends a subtle smokiness to the dish.
• 3 tablespoons butter: Creamy goodness; it helps make the sauce luxuriously rich.
• 3 cups beef broth: Adds depth and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• 8 oz Bowtie Pasta: Its fun shape captures all that creamy goodness!
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: The key ingredient for that creamy, cheesy sauce.
• 3/4 cup half and half (or whole milk): For a rich, creamy texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste): Enhances all the flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A touch of warmth; feel free to adjust for a spice boost.
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Optional, for those who love a little heat.
• 1–2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped: A pop of color and freshness to brighten the dish.

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

Step 1: Sauté the Beef

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.
Tip: Use a wooden spoon for easy breaking and stirring!

Step 2: Add Onion and Garlic

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.
Smell that? Pure heaven!

Step 3: Incorporate Seasonings

Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Let the mixture cook for another minute to combine the flavors.
The colors and scents of this step will make your heart smile!

Step 4: Create the Sauce Base

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.
Don’t rush this step! It helps the flavors really come together!

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions in a separate pot, draining once cooked and setting it aside.
Don’t forget to reserve a bit of pasta water! It helps with binding!

Step 6: Make it Creamy

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.
This is where the magic happens!

Step 7: Season it Up

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.
Taste and adjust – cooking is all about personal preference!

Step 8: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

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.
Get in there and mix it up until every bowtie is cloaked in that creamy goodness!

Step 9: Serve It Up

Serve the creamy Parmesan garlic beef bowtie pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Dig in, and don’t forget to enjoy every delightful bite!

Pro Tips for Success

• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh garlic and herbs enhances the flavor immensely.
• Customize Your Meat: Feel free to use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Pasta Perfection: Cook pasta al dente, as it will absorb the sauce and flavor as it rests.
• Leftovers Bliss: This dish is just as good the next day, allowing flavors to deepen!

Flavor Variations

• Swap out the beef for sausage or a plant-based ground alternative for a different spin.
• Toss in some seasonal veggies like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrients.
• Experiment with cheeses! Gouda or mozzarella could add a fun twist.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this delightful dish with a leafy green salad dressed lightly in olive oil and lemon for a refreshing contrast. A crusty loaf of garlic bread for mopping up sauce is also a must! As for drinks, a light white wine or sparkling water will beautifully complement the richness of this dish.

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to two days. Just reheat before mixing it with the pasta! Leftovers can be kept in the refrigerator in an airtight container for about 3–4 days.

Leftovers

Transform any leftovers into a delicious breakfast by mixing it with scrambled eggs and a sprinkle of more cheese! Or, you can bake it in a casserole dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping for a delightful twist.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze this pasta! Allow it to cool completely, then place it in an airtight container or freezer-friendly bag, making sure to squeeze out as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to ensure it stays creamy. You can also use the microwave, stirring every minute or so until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite pasta shape; just keep an eye on the cooking time!

Can I make it vegetarian?
Definitely! Use mushrooms or lentils instead of beef and vegetable broth for a delicious veggie version.

Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild kick from the red pepper flakes, but feel free to omit them or adjust to your spice tolerance!

Can I use pre-grated cheese?
While pre-grated cheese is convenient, freshly grated cheese melts better and adds a richer flavor.

Final Thoughts

Cooking is all about creating memories, and I hope this Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta brings warmth and joy to your table, just as it has to mine! Remember, every time you cook, you’re filling not just bellies, but hearts with love. So gather around, share stories, and enjoy the comfort that comes with each satisfying bite. Happy cooking, my friends! ❤️