Introduction

This creamy Parmesan garlic beef bowtie pasta is a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for weeknight dinners. Tender ground beef melds with a rich, cheesy sauce and fragrant garlic, all tossed with perfectly cooked bowtie pasta. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that the whole family will enjoy.

A close-up image shows a white bowl filled with farfalle pasta covered in a brown meat sauce mixed evenly throughout. Small green parsley leaves are sprinkled on top as garnish, adding a touch of color against the light brown and beige tones of the pasta and sauce. The pasta pieces are distinct with ruffled edges, and the meat sauce looks thick and well blended. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

3 teaspoons olive oil

5–6 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

1–2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

Step 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. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 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.

Step 3: Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Let the mixture cook for another minute to combine the flavors.

Step 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.

Step 5: Meanwhile, cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions in a separate pot. Drain once cooked and set aside.

Step 6: Once the broth has reduced a bit, stir in the half and half (or whole milk), and add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce becomes creamy and the cheese has melted.

Step 7: Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 8: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Stir until everything is well mixed and evenly coated.

Step 9: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute bowtie pasta with penne, fusilli, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust cooking time according to package instructions.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can cook the beef sauce and pasta separately up to a day in advance. Combine and reheat just before serving to maintain the creamy texture and freshness.