Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple yet packed with savory, comforting flavors. Cooking everything in one pan means fewer dishes, and the beef broth simmers the pasta to perfection while infusing it with meaty goodness. The butter, garlic, and Parmesan come together to create a creamy sauce that coats every bowtie perfectly. It’s a balanced meal that feels indulgent but is easy to make.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 3 tablespoons butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 cups beef broth

• 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)

• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. I begin by cooking the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until browned, draining excess fat if necessary.

2. I stir in Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic, cooking for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic releases its aroma.

3. Next, I add the butter and stir until it melts completely.

4. I pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Then, I add the uncooked bowtie pasta.

5. I reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pan, and let it cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.

6. Off the heat, I stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth.

7. I season with salt and pepper to taste, garnish with fresh parsley if I want, and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Calories per serving: 520 kcal

Variations

• I sometimes add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies and flavor.

• Swapping ground beef for ground turkey or chicken works well for a lighter option.

• A splash of heavy cream stirred in at the end makes the sauce even richer.

• I add crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.

• Using chicken broth instead of beef broth changes the flavor profile to a lighter, more delicate sauce.

storage/reheating

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
I reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, I like bowtie pasta because it holds the sauce well, but penne, rotini, or shells work just as well.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

I recommend freezing the components separately if possible, as the pasta texture may change when thawed and reheated.

Can I prepare this recipe dairy-free?

I can omit the Parmesan or substitute with a dairy-free cheese alternative.

How do I avoid mushy pasta?

I monitor the cooking time closely and stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely. Adding spinach, mushrooms, or peas during the last few minutes of cooking is a great way to boost nutrition.

Conclusion

Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta is a quick and comforting meal I turn to when I want hearty, satisfying flavors without a lot of fuss. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that combines savory beef, tender pasta, and a luscious garlic-Parmesan sauce all in one pan. Whether feeding family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe never disappoints.