Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef is a delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. This recipe features tender bowtie pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce infused with garlic and parmesan, perfectly complemented by savory ground beef. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this hearty pasta dish is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish can be ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, parmesan, and creamy sauce creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Versatile: Serve it as a main course or pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Comfort Food Favorite: Hearty and filling, this pasta dish satisfies cravings and warms the soul.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust seasonings to match your taste preferences.
Tools and Preparation
To whip up Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Colander
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet allows for even cooking of the ground beef and helps in creating the creamy sauce effortlessly.
- Pot for boiling pasta: The right-sized pot ensures that the pasta cooks evenly without sticking together.
- Colander: Draining the cooked pasta properly prevents excess water from diluting your delicious sauce.
- Wooden spoon: This tool is perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware while ensuring all ingredients are well combined.

Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz bowtie pasta
For the Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel tomatoes with chilies, undrained
For the Creamy Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Boil bowtie pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish light.
Step 3: Add Seasonings
Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into the skillet. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes
Add in the can of Rotel tomatoes (with juices) and let it simmer for about 2 minutes. This adds a nice kick to your sauce.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Base
Mix in butter, heavy cream, and beef broth. Allow this mixture to gently simmer until slightly thickened.
Step 6: Blend in Cheeses
Lower the heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese until fully melted and creamy.
Step 7: Combine Pasta with Sauce
Add the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet, tossing until well coated with the cheesy sauce. Let it cook together for another 2 minutes.
Step 8: Serve
If desired, sprinkle red pepper flakes over each serving. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm. Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef!
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef
Serving Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef is a delightful experience. This dish can be enhanced with various side dishes and garnishes to elevate your meal.
Garnish Options
- Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Extra Parmesan: Grate some additional Parmesan on top for a richer flavor.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like a little heat, these flakes can add a spicy kick.
Accompaniments
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm, crusty garlic bread on the side to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Green Salad: A light mixed greens salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans provide a nutritious complement and vibrant color.
How to Perfect Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef
Perfecting this dish will ensure it’s always a hit at your table. Here are some tips to achieve the best results.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and quality cheeses contribute significantly to flavor.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: This ensures the pasta retains its shape and texture in the sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning: Always taste and adjust salt, pepper, and spice levels according to your preference.
- Simmer for Flavor: Allow the sauce to simmer gently; this enhances the depth of flavors in your dish.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef
Pairing side dishes with Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy dressing complements the pasta’s richness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized add texture and sweetness.
- Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, artichokes, and cheese offers a savory balance.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a fresh contrast to the creamy sauce.
- Garlic Knots: Soft dough knots brushed with garlic butter are perfect for dipping in sauce.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that pairs well with rich flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.
- Skipping the Al Dente Step – Cooking bowtie pasta beyond al dente can result in mushy noodles. Always follow the package instructions and taste test for the perfect texture.
- Overcooking the Beef – Ground beef should be browned but not overcooked. Cook until just browned to keep it juicy and flavorful.
- Neglecting Seasoning – Failing to season the meat properly can lead to bland pasta. Don’t skip the garlic, salt, and pepper; they enhance the dish’s overall flavor.
- Adding Cheese Too Early – If you add cheese too soon, it can clump instead of melt smoothly. Stir in cheeses at low heat for a creamy sauce.
- Not Tossing Properly – Forgetting to toss the pasta in the sauce can lead to uneven coating. Make sure each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef
- Freeze in portioned containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months.
- Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.
Reheating Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between until warm.
- Stovetop – Add a splash of beef broth or cream in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative that will still provide a delicious flavor while being leaner.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can cook the pasta and prepare the sauce separately, then combine them before serving for optimal freshness.
What sides go well with Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef?
A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish and complements its rich flavors.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef is not only rich and hearty but also versatile enough for any weeknight dinner. Feel free to customize it by adding veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. Give this recipe a try; it’s bound to become a favorite!
Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef
Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef is a comforting dish that combines tender bowtie pasta with a rich, creamy sauce infused with garlic and parmesan, complemented by savory ground beef. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this hearty meal will impress family and friends alike.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 12 oz bowtie pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel tomatoes with chilies, undrained
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Boil bowtie pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
- Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
- Add Rotel tomatoes (with juices) and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Mix in butter, heavy cream, and beef broth; let simmer until slightly thickened.
- Stir in grated Parmesan and mozzarella until melted and creamy.
- Toss cooked pasta with sauce in the skillet for an even coating.
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 90mg



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