If you are craving a hearty, soul-soothing dish that comes together effortlessly yet feels like a special treat, this Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta is exactly what you need. Bursting with rich flavors from garlicky ground beef, melted Parmesan, and a luscious creamy sauce all wrapped around perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, it’s a meal that brings comfort and elegance to your dinner table in one delicious bite. Whether for a weekday family dinner or a casual gathering, this dish hits all the right notes and will quickly become a favorite go-to recipe you’ll be excited to share.

Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and that irresistible creamy sauce which defines the dish. These simple yet essential components are easy to find and come together beautifully to create a balanced and satisfying meal.

1 lb ground beef: Provides a rich, hearty base with a meaty depth that pairs perfectly with creamy elements.
3 teaspoons olive oil: Helps brown the beef and sauté aromatics, adding subtle fruity notes.
5–6 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with bold, aromatic flavor that’s simply irresistible.
1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds mild sweetness and texture to enhance the savory foundation.
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Boosts umami, giving the sauce a savory kick and complexity.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Blends herbs that bring a fresh, earthy aroma and classic Mediterranean flair.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Provides a subtle smoky warmth that lifts the overall flavor profile.
3 tablespoons butter: Enriches the sauce with creaminess and a luscious mouthfeel.
3 cups beef broth: Deepens the flavor and helps create a savory, silky sauce base.
8 oz bowtie pasta: Its unique shape holds onto the sauce beautifully, making every bite satisfying.
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce with nutty, salty richness that defines ‘creamy Parmesan.’
3/4 cup half and half (or whole milk): Balances the sauce’s texture, making it creamy but not heavy.
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste): Enhances all flavors without overpowering.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle spicy note that complements the creamy sauce.
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Gives just a hint of heat, elevating the overall flavor layering.
1–2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped: Freshens and brightens the dish at the very end.

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart gently as it cooks. Brown it evenly until no pink remains and the beef looks beautifully caramelized. Draining the excess fat at this point helps keep the dish from becoming greasy while preserving flavor.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Next, toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent, and the garlic releases its intoxicating aroma. This step awakens the savory bouquet that will permeate the entire dish.

Step 3: Season the Beef Mixture

Sprinkle in Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Stir well to combine and let it cook for an additional minute. These spices and sauces layer in earthiness, warmth, and a subtle smoky depth that make the sauce unforgettable.

Step 4: Build the Sauce Base

Add the butter to the skillet and gently melt it into the mixture before pouring in the beef broth. Bring this to a simmer, allowing it to reduce slightly for 3-4 minutes. This step concentrates the flavors, resulting in a richer, more luscious sauce.

Step 5: Cook the Bowtie Pasta

While the sauce simmers, cook the bowtie pasta separately according to package instructions until al dente. Their playful shape is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce and beef mixture, making sure every forkful is full of flavor.

Step 6: Make it Creamy and Cheesy

Once the broth has thickened slightly, stir in the half and half and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring gently until the sauce transforms into a silky, creamy texture and the cheese melts completely, enveloping the beef and pasta in cheesy goodness.

Step 7: Season and Finish Flavoring

Add salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Stir everything together and allow the sauce to meld for about 2-3 more minutes. This melding time lets the spices, cream, and beef flavor marry perfectly in the sauce.

Step 8: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Finally, add the cooked bowtie pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything gently to coat each piece of pasta evenly. The glossy, Parmesan garlic sauce clings beautifully to the bowties, making every bite irresistibly creamy.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the dish right before serving. The parsley adds a fresh pop of color and brightness that balances the richness of the sauce, making your Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta as beautiful as it is delicious.

How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that adds just the right pop of green and a slight herbal freshness. You can also consider sprinkling a little extra grated Parmesan or a small drizzle of olive oil for added shine and richness. A pinch of extra red pepper flakes on the side invites spice lovers to turn up the heat as they please.

Side Dishes

This dish is wonderfully satisfying on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for a fresh contrast. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is an excellent accompaniment, providing a crunchy texture perfect for sopping up any leftover creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta in small ramekins or pasta bowls to create individual portions that feel special. Alternatively, layering it in a casserole dish and sprinkling with extra Parmesan for a quick broil creates a bubbly, golden crusty top that is irresistible. Garnish with microgreens or edible flowers for an elegant touch that delights the eyes as well as the palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers should be cooled to room temperature before placing in an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they will remain good for about 3 to 4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the next-day meal even more enjoyable.

Freezing

You can freeze the Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To preserve texture, avoid freezing the pasta too long. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low to medium heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce and maintain creaminess. Stir frequently to heat evenly and prevent the sauce from separating. Microwaving is convenient too but stir halfway through to avoid hot spots.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is ideal for holding the creamy sauce, you can swap in penne, rotini, or farfalle. Just be sure to adjust cooking times and enjoy the same delightful flavors with your favorite pasta shape.

Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Replace ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based ground meat alternatives. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a fully vegetarian version without sacrificing depth of flavor.

Can I use milk instead of half and half?

Yes, whole milk works well if you prefer a lighter sauce. The texture will be slightly less rich, but the Parmesan cheese helps keep the sauce creamy and delicious.

How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?

The 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes adds just a gentle warmth and subtle kick that enhances the dish without overpowering. Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.

What’s the best way to grate Parmesan cheese for this recipe?

Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese from a block rather than pre-grated varieties for the best flavor and melt. A fine or medium grater works well to help the cheese melt smoothly into the sauce.

Final Thoughts

There is something incredibly comforting about a dish that combines creamy, cheesy sauce with savory ground beef and perfectly cooked pasta, and this Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta nails that feeling. It’s a recipe that’s simple enough for a weeknight but special enough to impress family and friends. Give it a try soon—it’s sure to become one of your much-loved staples in the kitchen!