This creamy garlic Parmesan bowtie pasta is a cozy dish that brings together tender beef and savory cheese in a delicious sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
You’ll love how easy it is to whip up—just cook the pasta, cook the beef, and mix it all together. I like to pair it with a side salad for a tasty dinner that feels special! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bowtie Pasta: Bowtie, or farfalle, is great for this dish because its shape holds onto the sauce well. You can substitute it with any pasta shape you enjoy, like penne or fusilli, just adjust cooking times as needed.
Ground Beef: Ground beef adds heartiness. For a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken. You could also use vegetarian alternatives like lentils or plant-based crumbles for a meat-free dish.
Heavy Cream: This is key for a rich sauce! If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may not be as thick and creamy. Avoid using fat-free cream, as it won’t provide the same texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-grated. You can substitute it with Pecorino Romano for a different flavor, or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How Can I Make Creamy Garlic Sauce Without Curdling?
Making a creamy garlic sauce that doesn’t curdle is all about controlling the heat. Here’s how to get it right:
- Cook the beef over medium-high heat first to get it browned and fully cooked.
- When adding garlic, make sure you cook it just until fragrant so it doesn’t burn.
- Once you add the cream, turn the heat to medium-low. This helps the cream heat gradually and prevents curdling.
- Stir the sauce often while it simmers to keep it smooth. If it gets too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up.
With these tips, you’ll have a velvety sauce that’s deliciously creamy!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Beef:
- 8 oz (225 g) bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup milk (optional, to thin out the sauce if needed)
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish will take about 20 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and beef, and about 10 more mixing everything together to create that creamy sauce. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the bowtie pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it should still have a little bite to it. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Stir and cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper for flavor!
3. Add Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook it for about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as that can make it taste bitter.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium-low, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir everything together well, and let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes. This helps to blend the flavors nicely!
5. Incorporate Parmesan Cheese:
Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and creates a smooth and creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add milk a little at a time to reach your desired consistency.
6. Combine with Pasta:
Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the creamy sauce in the skillet. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the delicious sauce and beef.
7. Season and Serve:
Take a moment to taste your dish, and adjust the seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if you want a spicy kick. Once you’re happy with the flavor, it’s ready to serve!
8. Garnish:
Lastly, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and added freshness. Enjoy your delightful Creamy Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Beef!
Dig in and savor every bite of this comforting and creamy dish! 🍝
FAQ for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Beef
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta works great, you can substitute it with other shapes like penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose!
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. Keep in mind that the sauce might not be as thick and creamy, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce, as it may thicken in the fridge. Heat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can cook the beef and prepare the sauce ahead of time, then combine with pasta just before serving. This will save you time during meal prep and still deliver a satisfying dinner!
