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Indulgent Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef – A Family Favorite!

Craving a pasta night that’s easy, indulgent, and impossible to resist? Look no further than this Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef. It’s comfort food at its finest—tender bowtie pasta wrapped in a velvety garlic parmesan sauce, loaded with flavorful ground beef and finished with a sprinkle of herbs. 🍝🧄🧀 Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend treats, this one-pan dish has it all: creamy texture, bold flavor, and just enough garlic to make it unforgettable.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

🍝 Pasta & Protein
  • 12 oz bowtie pasta farfalle
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
🧄 Cream Sauce
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk whole or 2%
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning
🌿 Optional Garnishes
  • Extra parmesan cheese
  • Chopped fresh parsley or basil
  • Cracked black pepper

Method
 

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
  1. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until browned.
  2. Add garlic and sauté for 1 more minute. Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
  1. Push beef to one side and melt butter in the skillet.
  2. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, forming a roux.
  3. Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream.
  4. Simmer for 4–5 minutes until thickened.
  5. Stir in parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
  1. Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss until well coated in the creamy sauce.
  2. Simmer for another 2 minutes until heated through.
  3. Garnish with extra parmesan and parsley. Serve hot!

Notes

🥄 Variations
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the sauce
Veggie Boost: Stir in spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes
Different Protein: Try ground turkey, Italian sausage, or chicken
Cheese Swap: Add shredded mozzarella or gouda for extra melt
Low-Carb Option: Serve over zucchini noodles or roasted cauliflower
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months
Reheating: Microwave with a splash of milk or reheat on stove over low heat
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes! Penne, rigatoni, or shells all work great.
Is it very garlicky?
It’s flavorful but balanced. Adjust garlic to taste.
Can I use pre-grated parmesan?
Freshly grated melts better, but pre-grated works in a pinch.
Can I skip the cream?
Use all milk for a lighter sauce, though it’ll be less rich.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes—skip the beef or replace it with mushrooms or lentils.
Can I prep this ahead?
Cook everything and store separately. Reheat and combine to serve.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and a 1:1 gluten-free flour in the roux.
What’s the best pan to use?
A large, deep skillet or Dutch oven is ideal.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely—great for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
Does this taste good the next day?
Yes—it reheats well and the flavors deepen overnight.
🏁 Conclusion
This Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef is the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table—fast. It’s hearty, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying, with just enough garlic to give it an irresistible kick. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or indulging in a comfort-filled night in, this pasta is a guaranteed win. 🍽️💛
Creamy, cozy, and crave-worthy—it’s pasta perfection!