Looking for a delicious weeknight dinner that’s creamy, comforting, and comes together in under 30 minutes? This Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta is the perfect one-pot wonder. Made with savory ground beef, tender bowtie pasta (farfalle), and a rich Parmesan garlic cream sauce, it’s simple enough for busy nights and tasty enough for company.
It’s hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavor, plus it reheats beautifully—ideal for meal prepping or feeding a hungry family.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 ½ cups dry bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 ½ cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
- Heat a large, deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Add olive oil and the ground beef. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Season with salt and pepper. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings
- Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Pasta and Broth
- Add the dry bowtie pasta and beef broth to the skillet. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the broth is absorbed.
Step 4: Stir in Cream and Cheese
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Add mozzarella for extra cheesiness if desired.
Step 5: Finish and Garnish
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Let the sauce thicken for another 1–2 minutes if needed. Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and extra Parmesan before serving.
Variation:
- Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or steamed broccoli for added nutrition
- Make it Spicy: Use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef
- Chicken Option: Replace beef with grilled or shredded chicken
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream and reduced-fat cheese
- Pasta Swap: Penne, rigatoni, or rotini work just as well as bowties
COOKING Note:
Be sure to stir the pasta occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking. If it absorbs liquid too quickly, add a splash of extra broth or cream.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with garlic bread or crusty baguette slices
- Add a simple Caesar or garden salad on the side
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh cracked pepper
- Pair with a glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon
Tips:
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for better flavor and melting
- Adjust consistency with more cream or a splash of broth if too thick
- Don’t overcook pasta—al dente is best to hold up in the creamy sauce
- For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese at the end
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days
⏱️ Time Overview:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
🍽️ Nutritional Information (Per Serving – approx. 6 servings):
- Calories: ~530
- Protein: ~27g
- Carbohydrates: ~45g
- Fat: ~28g
- Sugar: ~2g
- Sodium: ~480mg
- Fiber: ~2g
Estimates vary depending on ingredients and portion size.
❓FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
- Yes! It stores well and reheats easily. Just add a splash of milk or cream before reheating to loosen the sauce.
Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan?
- You can, but fresh grated melts better and gives the sauce a smoother texture.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
- It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
What if I don’t have bowtie pasta?
- Use any short pasta—penne, shells, or rotini all work great.
Can I make this without cream?
- Yes, you can substitute with milk and thicken the sauce using a roux or cornstarch slurry.
Conclusion:
Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta is the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table. It’s rich, filling, and full of flavor—and best of all, it’s made in one pan with everyday ingredients. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to please.
With savory beef, tender pasta, and creamy Parmesan garlic sauce, it’s comfort food at its finest. Serve it up hot, cheesy, and straight from the skillet—you won’t have leftovers for long!