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Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta Recipe

Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta Recipe

4.9 from 11 reviews

This Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta combines tender ground beef with a rich and creamy Parmesan sauce, flavored with garlic, smoked paprika, and Italian seasonings, all tossed with perfectly cooked bowtie pasta. It’s a comforting, hearty dish perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal that blends savory flavors and creamy textures.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat & Dairy

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3/4 cup half and half (or whole milk)

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 56 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 12 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Pantry & Seasonings

  • 3 teaspoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 8 oz Bowtie Pasta
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bowtie Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz of bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet or pan, heat 3 teaspoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb of ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: Reduce heat to medium, add 3 tablespoons butter to the pan with the beef. Add minced garlic (5-6 cloves) and finely chopped onion (1 small). Sauté until fragrant and onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add Seasonings: Stir in 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, salt (1/2 teaspoon) and black pepper (1/4 teaspoon). Cook for another minute to bloom the spices.
  5. Create the Sauce: Pour in 3 cups beef broth and bring to a simmer. Let it reduce slightly for about 5 minutes.
  6. Add Dairy and Cheese: Lower heat to medium-low and stir in 3/4 cup half and half (or whole milk) followed by 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
  7. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the pan, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy beef and Parmesan sauce. Warm through for 2-3 minutes.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle finely chopped fresh parsley (1–2 tablespoons) on top for a fresh finish. Adjust salt and pepper if needed, then serve hot.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, substitute half and half with whole milk or use low-fat milk.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit if sensitive to heat.
  • You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese gives the best flavor; pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or milk to regain creaminess.

Nutrition

Keywords: Creamy Beef Pasta, Parmesan Garlic Pasta, Bowtie Pasta Recipe, Easy Beef Pasta, Comfort Food Pasta