Dinner

Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta Recipe

ByVictor Layne October 22, 2025October 22, 2025

Introduction

This creamy Parmesan garlic beef bowtie pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners. The rich, cheesy sauce paired with seasoned ground beef and tender bowtie pasta creates a satisfying meal everyone will enjoy.

The image shows a close-up of a white bowl filled with pasta shaped like small bow ties, mixed with ground meat. The pasta is coated in a creamy light brown sauce, and small bits of chopped green herbs are sprinkled evenly on top. Some black pepper is scattered over the dish, adding texture and contrast. The pasta pieces look tender and slightly glossy, while the ground meat appears browned and crumbly. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface, and the photo focuses closely on the food, showing the creamy sauce clinging to the pasta and meat. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
3 teaspoons olive oil
5–6 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
3 tablespoons butter
3 cups beef broth
8 oz bowtie pasta
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
3/4 cup half and half (or whole milk)
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1–2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent, and the garlic is fragrant.
Step 3: Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute to let the flavors combine.
Step 4: Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 5: While the sauce simmers, cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions in a separate pot. Drain and set aside once done.
Step 6: Stir the half and half (or whole milk) into the skillet. Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce becomes creamy and the cheese melts completely.
Step 7: Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and let the flavors meld for 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 8: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the creamy sauce, mixing thoroughly.
Step 9: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley for added color and freshness.

Tips & Variations

For extra creaminess, add a splash more half and half or a tablespoon of cream cheese to the sauce.
Try substituting ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Use fresh pasta instead of dried bowtie pasta for a softer texture.
Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added veggies and nutrients.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce and keep it creamy.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a bowl of farfalle pasta mixed with a creamy sauce and small pieces of ground beef scattered evenly. The bowtie-shaped pasta is light golden with a smooth, slightly glossy texture, coated in a beige creamy sauce. The ground beef pieces are dark brown, adding contrast to the dish. Garnished on top are finely chopped green herbs and a light sprinkling of black pepper, enhancing the color and texture. The food is served in a white bowl placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or rotini. Cooking times may vary slightly.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, as the cream sauce may separate when frozen and reheated. If you do freeze it, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating gently.