When the craving hits for something creamy, cheesy, garlicky, and downright comforting, few dishes rise to the occasion quite like this Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta. It’s hearty, rich, and comes together in under 30 minutes — making it the ultimate go-to for busy weeknights, casual family dinners, or a cozy night in.
Why This Recipe Works
- Quick and Satisfying: Ready in less than half an hour.
- Layers of Flavor: From savory beef to sharp Parmesan and rich cream.
- Perfectly Balanced: Just enough garlic and seasoning to enhance, not overpower.
- One Pan Convenience: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
- Customizable: Add veggies, swap meats, adjust heat — it’s flexible!
Whether you’re a pasta lover or just looking for a new dinner idea, this dish will hit the spot.
Ingredients (US Measuring Cups)
Pasta & Beef
- 12 oz bowtie pasta (about 3/4 lb)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced (approx. 1/2 cup)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper to taste
Creamy Parmesan Garlic Sauce
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh chopped parsley
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, following package directions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Beef
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned and fully cooked. Drain off any excess fat.
Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté for another 1 minute until fragrant. Remove beef mixture and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet (or a clean saucepan), melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Stir in Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and additional salt and pepper. Cook until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Beef
Add the cooked bowtie pasta and beef mixture into the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated.
Simmer on low heat for 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through.
Step 5: Serve & Garnish
Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy with garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving – Based on 4 Servings)
- Calories: ~650 kcal
- Protein: ~30g
- Fat: ~35g
- Carbohydrates: ~50g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Sodium: ~500–600 mg
Pro Tips for Success
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often includes anti-caking agents that can prevent a smooth sauce.
- Control Heat: Don’t overheat the cheese sauce or it might break. Keep it on low once cheese is added.
- Adjust Seasoning: Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
- Reserve Pasta Water: If your sauce feels too thick, a splash of starchy pasta water can loosen it while maintaining flavor.
- One-Pot Option: Want fewer dishes? After cooking beef, add pasta, broth, and sauce ingredients to the same skillet and simmer until the pasta is cooked.
Add-In Ideas & Variations
- Meat Variations: Use ground turkey, sausage, or shredded rotisserie chicken.
- Veggie Boost: Add spinach, mushrooms, diced tomatoes, or zucchini.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Cheese Lovers: Mix in mozzarella or asiago for extra cheesiness.
- Low-Carb Version: Use zoodles or cauliflower pasta with almond flour roux.
Perfect Pairings
- Garlic Bread: Ideal for scooping up that creamy sauce.
- Green Salad: A crisp counterpoint to the richness.
- Roasted Veggies: Add roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts.
- White Wine: A light Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay complements the creaminess well.
How to Store & Reheat
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture.
- Freezing: Not recommended — dairy-based sauces may separate upon thawing.
When to Serve This Dish
- Weeknight Dinner: Quick and easy for the whole family.
- Potluck Favorite: Comforting, filling, and crowd-pleasing.
- Meal Prep: Portion out for lunches — reheats like a dream.
- Date Night In: Pair with wine and candlelight for an intimate meal.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta is the ultimate blend of flavor, comfort, and ease. Rich without being heavy, full of flavor without needing a pantry full of ingredients, it’s the kind of meal that wins over everyone at the table.
Customize it to your taste, toss in what’s in your fridge, and enjoy the magic that happens when cheese, pasta, and garlic meet in one glorious dish.