Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta Recipe Everyone Loves

Nothing beats coming home to a warm, comforting plate of creamy parmesan garlic beef bowtie pasta. This dish is exactly what you need when cravings hit for something rich, flavorful, and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

this Recipe

With tender beef, cheesy garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, this recipe is sure to become your go-to for weeknight dinners. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up yet impressive enough for guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and creamy parmesan garlic sauce that’s packed with flavor
• Quick to prepare—ready in under 30 minutes
• Uses simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients
• Hearty and filling enough for a family meal
• Bowtie pasta holds the sauce beautifully for every bite

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious creamy parmesan garlic beef bowtie pasta.

• 12 ounces bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Total Time: 28 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 580 per serving

How to Make CREAMY PARMESAN GARLIC BEEF BOWTIE PASTA EVERYONE IS CRAVING

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat and add minced garlic, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Reduce heat to medium, then stir in butter until melted. Sprinkle flour over the beef mixture and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux, cooking out the raw flour taste.
4. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook until it thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring until the cheese melts and sauce is creamy.
6. Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet, tossing well to coat every piece in the parmesan garlic beef sauce. Cook another 1-2 minutes to heat through.
7. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving warm.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use whole milk for a richer, creamier sauce; half-and-half can be substituted for extra indulgence.
• Don’t overcook the pasta—al dente texture will hold up better when mixed with the sauce.
• Grate Parmesan cheese fresh for optimal flavor and melting quality.
• Customize spice level by adjusting crushed red pepper flakes or adding a pinch of smoked paprika.
• For an extra layer of flavor, sauté some chopped onions with the garlic before adding the beef.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover creamy parmesan garlic beef bowtie pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken after cooling; simply add a splash of milk when reheating to loosen it up.

You can also freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is ideal because its shape holds the sauce well, you can substitute penne, rotini, or shells if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?

You can swap whole milk for 2% or even use unsweetened almond milk, though the sauce won’t be quite as creamy. Using lean ground beef or ground turkey also reduces fat content.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the pasta and sauce separately and combine them just before serving. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little milk to refresh the sauce.

What can I add to make this dish more vegetable-forward?

Try stirring in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted cherry tomatoes when you add the pasta to the sauce. These additions complement the flavors and add nutrients.