Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta Recipe
This Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish combining savory ground beef with a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. Infused with garlic, Italian seasoning, and a hint of smoked paprika, the pasta is perfectly coated in a velvety sauce made from beef broth, butter, and half and half. Ready in just 35 minutes, this comforting bowlful is ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner that will delight the whole family.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 lb ground beef
- 5–6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Oils and Dairy
- 3 teaspoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3/4 cup half and half (or whole milk)
Liquids and Pasta
- 3 cups beef broth
- 8 oz Bowtie Pasta
Garnish
- 1–2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat if necessary to avoid greasiness.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent and the garlic is fragrant, building a flavorful base.
- Season the Meat: Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook the mixture for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Create the Sauce Base: Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt completely. Pour in the beef broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes to slightly reduce and concentrate the flavors.
- Cook the Pasta: While the sauce simmers, cook the bowtie pasta separately in a pot according to package instructions. Once al dente, drain and set aside.
- Add Creaminess: Stir the half and half (or whole milk) into the reduced broth mixture. Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce becomes creamy and the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce.
- Season the Sauce: Add salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Stir well and let the sauce cook for another 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors and thicken slightly.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet. Toss thoroughly to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy Parmesan garlic sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the creamy Parmesan garlic beef bowtie pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley to add a vibrant pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- Adjust the salt according to your taste, as the Parmesan cheese and beef broth can add natural saltiness.
- For a lighter version, use whole milk instead of half and half, but the sauce will be slightly less creamy.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is key for the best flavor and smooth melting in the sauce.
- Use fresh parsley for garnish to add brightness, but you can substitute with basil or oregano if preferred.
- To make it spicier, increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Keywords: creamy beef pasta, Parmesan garlic pasta, bowtie pasta recipe, easy Italian dinner, one-pot pasta sauce, ground beef pasta, weeknight dinner recipe