This creamy garlic parmesan bowtie pasta with beef is a cozy dish that makes dinner feel special. The bowtie pasta hugs the creamy sauce, and the tender beef adds delicious flavor!
I love how this dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, I can’t resist going back for “just one more” helping of that cheesy goodness! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bowtie Pasta: Farfalle, or bowtie pasta, is perfect for this dish due to its shape, which holds onto the sauce well. If you can’t find bowtie, other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli will also work nicely!
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef gives great flavor, but you could substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you’re vegetarian, try using mushrooms or a meat alternative like lentils.
Garlic: Fresh garlic really enhances the flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-minced garlic from a jar, but fresh is always best for the taste!
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you’re lactose intolerant, you can use a dairy-free cream option or even coconut milk, though the flavor might change slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds that delicious cheesy element. Pecorino Romano can be a nice substitute for a sharper flavor. Nutritional yeast is a fantastic dairy-free option that gives a cheesy taste!
How Do I Cook Ground Beef Without Making It Tough?
Cooking ground beef can be tricky when it comes to keeping it tender and flavorful. Here are some steps to keep your beef juicy:
- Start with a hot skillet to sear the meat quickly. This helps lock in moisture.
- Use a wooden spoon to break the meat into smaller pieces while cooking. This promotes even cooking.
- Avoid over-mixing the meat as that can lead to a tougher texture.
- Drain excess fat if there’s too much, but leaving a bit can enhance the flavor of your sauce!
Following these tips will help ensure your ground beef is cooked to perfection without losing juiciness!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta With Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) bowtie (farfalle) pasta
For The Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For The Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
Seasonings:
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Cooking the pasta and developing the creamy sauce happens simultaneously, so you’ll have a delightful meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until it is al dente, which usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet, seasoning it with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil. Cook the beef for about 6-8 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon until it’s browned and cooked through. If there is any excess fat, you may want to drain it for a better texture.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Once the beef is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and milk, mixing well to combine. Gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring until the sauce is creamy and smooth. If it seems too thick, simply add a little more milk to achieve your desired consistency.
5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
Toss the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet with the creamy beef sauce. Mix well to make sure all the pasta is coated evenly, soaking up that delicious sauce.
6. Final Adjustments:
Give the pasta a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. This little step can make a big difference!
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve the pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and some additional grated Parmesan cheese on top if you like. Enjoy your creamy garlic parmesan bowtie pasta with beef!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Whole Wheat Bowtie Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat bowtie pasta is a great substitute if you’re looking for a healthier option. Just be sure to check the cooking time on the package, as whole wheat pasta may need a minute or two longer to cook.
How Can I Add More Vegetables to This Dish?
Great idea! You can easily incorporate vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Sauté them along with the onion and garlic to allow them to soften and blend well into the sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! For a dairy-free version, use cashew cream or coconut milk in place of heavy cream and milk, and substitute nutritional yeast for the Parmesan cheese to achieve that cheesy flavor without dairy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to moisten the sauce if it has thickened.
