Description

This Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta is a delicious and hearty meal featuring tender bowtie pasta tossed in a rich, creamy sauce made with ground beef, fragrant garlic, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Enhanced with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes, this comforting dish is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or special occasion alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Beef and Aromatics

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

Sauce and Pasta

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)

Seasoning and Garnish

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

Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat if necessary.
Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent, and the garlic is fragrant.
Add Seasonings: Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Let the mixture cook for another minute to combine the flavors.
Add Butter and Broth: Add butter to the skillet and allow it to melt, then pour in the beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
Cook Pasta: Meanwhile, cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions in a separate pot, draining once cooked and setting it aside.
Create Creamy Sauce: Once the broth has reduced a bit, stir in the half and half (or whole milk), and add in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce becomes creamy and the cheese has melted.
Season the Sauce: Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld together for another 2-3 minutes.
Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Continue stirring until the pasta is evenly coated and everything is well mixed.
Serve: Serve the creamy Parmesan garlic beef bowtie pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Notes

Adjust red pepper flakes based on desired spice level for a milder or spicier dish.
For a lighter alternative, substitute half and half with whole milk or a milk alternative.
Ensure to drain excess fat after browning the beef for a less greasy sauce.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese gives the best flavor and texture; pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly.
Bowtie pasta can be substituted with other short pasta shapes like penne or rotini if preferred.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American

Keywords: Creamy Parmesan Pasta, Garlic Beef Pasta, Bowtie Pasta Recipe, Italian Beef Pasta, Quick Dinner Recipes