If you’re craving something ultra-comforting and quick enough for a weeknight dinner, this Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta will absolutely hit the spot. It’s a cozy, rich, and creamy pasta dish that marries the heartiness of seasoned ground beef with a parmesan-forward garlic cream sauce. Each bite is packed with flavor, and the bowtie pasta makes it feel a bit more special than your average pasta night.

This pasta is perfect for feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week. It also holds up beautifully for leftovers, getting even more flavorful as the sauce soaks into the pasta. With minimal prep and everyday ingredients, you’ll be amazed how quickly this becomes a regular favorite at your table.

What Kind of Bowtie Pasta Should I Use?

The classic farfalle, or bowtie pasta, is perfect for catching all the creamy goodness of the sauce in its little folds and creases. You can use regular or whole wheat varieties, and if you’re gluten-free, look for a rice- or corn-based bowtie option. The most important thing is to cook it al dente so it doesn’t get too soft once mixed with the sauce.

Ingredients for the Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta

Ground Beef: This brings hearty, savory depth to the dish. Choose lean ground beef to avoid excess grease.

Bowtie (Farfalle) Pasta: Ideal for grabbing onto the sauce and holding its shape.

Garlic: Essential for that bold flavor foundation. Fresh minced garlic works best.

Parmesan Cheese: Adds nutty, salty richness to the creamy sauce. Freshly grated is preferred.

Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce so luxurious and silky.

Beef Broth: Enhances the meatiness of the dish and balances the richness.

Olive Oil or Butter: Used to sauté the garlic and brown the meat.

Salt and Pepper: Basic seasoning that brings everything together.

Parsley (optional): Adds a pop of color and freshness to the final dish.

How To Make the Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil or butter. Once hot, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned and fully cooked. Season with a little salt and pepper, then transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add a little more oil or butter if needed. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in the beef broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Then add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a low simmer.

Step 5: Add Parmesan and Stir

Once the cream is heated through, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Beef

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet, along with the drained pasta. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Top with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and more grated Parmesan if you like. Serve hot and enjoy immediately.

Serving and Storing Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta

This pasta dish is best served hot, right out of the skillet, with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and a few fresh parsley leaves for color. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies to round out the meal. Garlic bread on the side? Absolutely yes.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce thickens too much. This pasta also freezes well for up to a month—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While bowtie pasta holds the sauce beautifully, penne, rotini, or shells are great alternatives that cling to creamy sauces just as well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Definitely. This dish is meal prep-friendly. Make it a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and reheat with a splash of cream to refresh the sauce.

What protein can I use besides beef?

Ground turkey, Italian sausage, or even shredded rotisserie chicken can work well in this dish. Each offers a slightly different flavor profile.

How can I make this lighter?

Swap the heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt. Use a leaner protein and reduce the Parmesan slightly if desired.

Is it spicy?

Not at all. But if you like a kick, feel free to add red pepper flakes or a touch of cayenne during the garlic sauté step.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes! Mushrooms, spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes would be delicious stirred into the sauce.

Want More Pasta Recipes That Satisfy?

If this Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta won your heart, then you’ll love these other weeknight-worthy pasta creations too:

• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for bold flavor with cheesy comfort.
• One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta for a quick and filling one-skillet wonder.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli if you love your pasta extra creamy with veggies built in.
• Red Pepper Rigatoni for a smoky twist that brings serious depth.
• Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef to stick with the beefy and rich theme.

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And when you make it, tag me or leave a comment below! Did you go spicy? Add mushrooms? I’d love to know how you made it your own.

Let’s keep sharing and making weeknight dinners better together. And if you’re hunting for more cozy meals, check out my daily recipe updates on Pinterest – Life with Jam.

Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta is a one-pan comfort food dream. Savory ground beef, rich garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, and tender bowtie pasta come together in under 30 minutes for a hearty, satisfying dinner that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook bowtie pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil or butter. Add ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked. Season with salt and pepper. Remove beef and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Pour in beef broth and deglaze the skillet, scraping any brown bits from the bottom. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes.

5. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning.

6. Return cooked beef to the skillet. Add drained pasta and toss gently to coat everything in the creamy sauce.

7. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately while hot.