Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta

why make this recipe

Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta is a fabulous dish that combines the rich flavors of ground beef, garlic, and cheese into a comforting meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. This dish is not only hearty and satisfying, but it also allows you to enjoy a creamy sauce that’s bursting with flavor.

how to make Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta

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

Directions

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. Once browned, drain any excess fat if necessary.
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.
3. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Let the mixture cook for another minute to combine the flavors.
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.
5. Meanwhile, cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions in a separate pot, draining once cooked and setting it aside.
6. Once the broth has reduced a bit, stir in the half and half (or whole milk), and add in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce becomes creamy and the cheese has melted.
7. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld together for another 2-3 minutes.
8. Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Continue stirring until the pasta is evenly coated and everything is well mixed.
9. Serve the creamy Parmesan garlic beef bowtie pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

how to serve Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta

Serve this delicious pasta dish warm, straight from the skillet. It pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Garnishing with fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances the flavor.

how to store Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be consumed within 3-4 days for the best taste. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or milk to bring back the creaminess.

tips to make Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta

• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
• Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste, especially the red pepper flakes if you prefer less heat.
• You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.

variation

For a lighter version, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. Additionally, swapping out the half and half for a low-fat milk can reduce calories while still keeping the dish creamy.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply replace the ground beef with cooked lentils or mushrooms to create a delicious vegetarian version.

3. How can I make the sauce thicker?

You can create a roux by mixing equal parts flour and butter, cooking it briefly, and then adding it to the sauce.

Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish with family and friends!