Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie

This creamy Parmesan garlic beef bowtie pasta is one of my favorite quick dinners for busy weeknights. It comes together easily but still feels like a comforting homemade meal that the whole family enjoys.

I first made this on a night when I had little time but wanted something special. It quickly became a go-to for busy nights and easy entertaining.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: provides hearty protein and adds rich meaty flavor choose fresh ground beef with about 15 to 20 percent fat for juiciness
• Olive oil: helps brown the beef and soften the aromatics pick a good quality extra virgin olive oil if possible
• Garlic and onion: build a fragrant base essential for developing depth in the sauce make sure the garlic is freshly minced for best flavor
• Worcestershire sauce: adds subtle umami and tang enhancing the beefiness
• Italian seasoning: blends herbs that bring warmth and a touch of earthiness opt for a fresh blend without added salt
• Smoked paprika: gives a mild smokiness that balances the creaminess pick a bright red powder that is not too old
• Butter: enriches the sauce making it silky and luxurious use unsalted so you can control salt levels
• Beef broth: forms the liquid base intensifying the beef flavor choose a low sodium broth for more control
• Bowtie pasta: holds onto the sauce well with its shape pick good quality dried pasta for the best texture
• Parmesan cheese: is key for authentic cheesy flavor grate fresh Parmesan when possible for melt-in-your-mouth results
• Half and half or whole milk: creates the creamy sauce choose half and half for a richer version or whole milk if you want it lighter
• Salt and black pepper: season the dish adjust carefully to taste to enhance but not overpower
• Red pepper flakes: add a mild heat without overt spiciness use sparingly if sensitive to heat
• Fresh parsley: provides a fresh herbaceous finish pick bright green parsley and chop finely

Instructions

Build The Beef Base:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the ground beef breaking it into small pieces. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink. If there is excess fat drain it to avoid greasiness. Browning well adds deep flavor and is essential here.

Add Aromatics:

Stir in finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until onions are soft and translucent, and garlic becomes fragrant. This step brings out sweetness and aroma that form the sauce foundation.

Flavor Layering:

Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Let everything cook together for about one minute to combine fully. This step helps the spices bloom releasing their flavor into the beef mixture.

Create The Sauce:

Add butter and allow it to melt fully. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Let the liquid reduce slightly about 3 to 4 minutes to concentrate flavor. This reduction is important for a rich but balanced sauce.

Cook The Pasta:

While the sauce simmers, cook bowtie pasta in a separate pot according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Cooking pasta separately prevents it from becoming mushy in the sauce.

Finish The Sauce:

Once the broth is reduced, stir in half and half (or whole milk). Add freshly grated Parmesan and stir until the cheese melts and sauce thickens to creamy consistency. This creates the luscious base that coats the pasta perfectly.

Season The Sauce:

Add salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and let it all meld together for 2 to 3 minutes. Taste to adjust seasoning so the flavor is balanced and nuanced.

Combine Pasta And Sauce:

Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet. Toss gently to coat every piece of pasta in the sauce. Continue stirring until everything is evenly combined and hot. This ensures your pasta is flavorful in every bite.

Serve And Garnish:

Dish the creamy Parmesan garlic beef bowtie pasta into bowls or plates. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for color and a fresh herbaceous note that brightens the dish.

I love the way the Parmesan melts into the sauce creating a silky texture and sharp cheesy taste that defines this dish. This was a recipe passed to me by my mom who always used it to lure my picky eaters to the dinner table. It never fails to bring everyone around with smiles.

Storage tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. It keeps well for up to three days.

Ingredient swaps

Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter protein. Use whole milk or even cream instead of half and half to adjust richness to your preference. Try adding mushrooms or spinach for a veggie boost that pairs well with the flavors.

Serving ideas

Serve with a crisp green salad for freshness and crunch alongside this rich pasta. Crusty bread works wonderfully to soak up any extra sauce on the plate. Pair with roasted vegetables to round out the meal and add textural variety.

Lastly, tossing the pasta gently but thoroughly while still on the heat helps the sauce cling beautifully rather than just sitting on top.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ How do I prevent the sauce from separating?

Ensure the heat is moderate when adding half and half and Parmesan. Stir constantly until fully incorporated to maintain a smooth sauce.

→ Can I use a different pasta instead of bowtie?

Yes, pasta shapes like penne or fusilli work well since they hold creamy sauces effectively.

→ How can I make the dish spicier?

Increase red pepper flakes or add a touch of cayenne pepper according to your spice preference.

→ Is it possible to substitute ground beef with other proteins?

Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter option, adjusting cooking time as needed.

→ What is the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess while stirring.