Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta

This Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta is exactly that. It’s a fusion of rich, velvety sauce, tender beef, and perfectly cooked pasta, all infused with a deep garlic essence and finished with the bold charm of Parmesan.

The bowtie pasta (farfalle) doesn’t just look adorable; it cradles every drop of that luscious sauce, making each bite unforgettable.

From slowly caramelizing the onions to building a roux-based sauce that hugs each noodle, this isn’t just a weeknight dinner—it’s a little celebration in a bowl.

Whether you’re feeding the family or making leftovers for the next day (trust me, they reheat beautifully), this recipe brings restaurant-level satisfaction to your home kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy, cheesy, garlicky comfort food that never fails to impress.
• Uses everyday ingredients you likely already have in your pantry and fridge.
• Easy to customize with your favorite veggies, herbs, or heat level.
• Feeds a hungry crowd and makes delicious leftovers.

Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta Recipe

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4–6 generous portions
• Equipment Needed: Large pot, large skillet, medium saucepan, whisk, colander

Ingredient

Pasta Base

• 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle): Holds the creamy sauce well and adds fun texture.
• Salted water: Enhances the flavor of the pasta while boiling.

Beef Mixture

• 1 lb ground beef (85/15): Provides richness and savory depth.
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped: Adds natural sweetness and base flavor.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with that signature aromatic punch.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the aromatics bloom while cooking.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning the beef mixture.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Forms the base of the roux and adds richness.
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce into a creamy consistency.
• 2 cups whole milk: Adds body without being too heavy.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Lends a luscious silkiness to the sauce.
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers salty, nutty, umami flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the garlic flavor in the sauce.
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a blend of herbs to echo Italian roots.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a touch of heat.

Garnishes (Optional but Recommended)

• Fresh chopped parsley: Adds color and brightness.
• Extra Parmesan: Because there’s no such thing as too much cheese.
• Cracked black pepper: A final hit of flavor and contrast.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, about 10–11 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Brown the Beef with Layers of Flavor

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until it begins to caramelize slightly. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until fully browned, breaking up the meat. Drain any excess fat and reduce heat to low.

3. Build the Creamy Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until it forms a golden paste. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.

Add the heavy cream, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Once the mixture is smooth and bubbling, stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season to taste.

4. Combine and Bring It All Together

Pour the creamy sauce into the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir to coat everything evenly. Fold in the cooked bowtie pasta. If the sauce feels too thick, use reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to loosen it.

5. Garnish and Serve

Serve hot in bowls, topped with chopped parsley, extra Parmesan, and cracked black pepper. Enjoy immediately for the best texture.

Variations to Try

• Veggie Boost: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes.
• Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or Italian sausage for a new twist.
• Cheese Mix: Blend in mozzarella or fontina for extra melty goodness.
• Low-Carb Version: Swap pasta for roasted cauliflower or zucchini noodles.

Storing Leftovers & Reheating

• To Store: Let pasta cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• To Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s texture. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic bread or focaccia to mop up the sauce.
• Add a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette for balance.
• Pair with a glass of chilled white wine (like Pinot Grigio) or sparkling water with lemon.

Pro Tips

• Grate the Parmesan fresh—pre-shredded cheese won’t melt as smoothly.
• Brown the onions well before adding garlic to deepen the flavor.
• Let the sauce simmer for a minute after adding Parmesan for better texture.
• Warm your serving bowls slightly so the pasta stays hot longer.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta is more than just a meal—it’s a warm invitation to slow down and savor. Every forkful delivers comfort with a gourmet touch, making it perfect for family dinners, casual date nights, or cozy Sundays. Best of all, it’s endlessly adaptable and surprisingly simple. Once you try it, it’ll earn a regular spot in your dinner rotation!

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