If you are craving a comforting and delicious pasta dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then the Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. This recipe brings together perfectly cooked bowtie pasta tossed in a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce, paired with savory ground beef seasoned just right to create a perfect balance of flavors. The blend of tender beef, creamy cheese, and a touch of garlic creates a dish that’s not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to whip up for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is a true winner that consistently gets rave reviews.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple with ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Each component plays a crucial role — from the aromatic garlic raising the flavor profile, to the rich Parmesan cheese delivering that luscious creaminess, and the ground beef providing a hearty, satisfying texture. Simple, fresh, and essential ingredients come together to make this dish a star.
- 1 lb ground beef: Adds hearty flavor and protein, making the dish filling and delicious.
- 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle): The charming shape captures the creamy sauce beautifully in every bite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to sauté garlic and brown the beef, adding subtle richness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic depth that enhances the flavor layers throughout the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings classic Italian essence to the beef.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning that brightens and balances all the flavors perfectly.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The base for the Alfredo sauce, delivering indulgent creaminess.
- 1/2 cup milk: Adds smoothness and thins the sauce just enough for perfect coating.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives the sauce that signature cheesy bite and velvety texture.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Enriches the sauce with a silky finish and rounds out the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional): An extra garlic kick to amplify the taste if you like it bold.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh, herbal note and a splash of color to the finished dish.
How to Make Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce and beef mixture. Cooking the pasta just right is key because it will continue to absorb the delicious sauce later.
Step 2: Brown the ground beef
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink. Season with salt, pepper, and the dried Italian seasoning. Once browned, transfer the beef to a plate and set aside. Browning the beef properly means developing deep, savory flavors that anchor the entire dish.
Step 3: Sauté garlic
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Garlic is the backbone of many great sauces; here, it lends a beautifully aromatic base that blends perfectly with the creamy Alfredo sauce.
Step 4: Make the Alfredo sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring constantly over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt completely, which will give the sauce a luxurious texture. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce has thickened slightly. If you’d like a more pronounced garlic flavor, sprinkle in the optional garlic powder. This creamy sauce is what makes this Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce Recipe so irresistibly indulgent.
Step 5: Combine beef and pasta with the sauce
Add the browned beef back to the skillet and stir to coat it in the sauce. Then toss in the cooked bowtie pasta, mixing everything gently but thoroughly so that every piece of pasta is enveloped in that velvety Alfredo sauce and every bite is packed with meaty goodness. Let it all heat together for a minute or two to marry the flavors beautifully.
How to Serve Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley sprinkled on top adds a fresh burst of color and flavor contrast that makes the dish visually appealing and enhances the eating experience. It brightens up the richness of the cheese and beef, lifting the entire dish to the next level of deliciousness.
Side Dishes
To complement this creamy and savory pasta, serve a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or some garlic-roasted broccoli. These lighter, vegetable-based sides provide a refreshing balance and add texture contrast that keeps the meal well-rounded and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant touch, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls and garnish each with a twist of freshly cracked black pepper and a lemon wedge alongside to add a touch of brightness when squeezed. You can also sprinkle a bit of extra Parmesan cheese and drizzle a touch of truffle oil for a gourmet flair. Presentation can elevate this home-cooked favorite into a dish worthy of a restaurant night.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce may thicken as it cools, but don’t worry — it will loosen up nicely when reheated. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep or to enjoy the next day with almost no effort.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you must freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container and keep it for up to two months. Be aware that the texture of the Alfredo sauce may change slightly upon thawing, so it’s great to freeze only a small portion of leftovers if needed. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat the pasta gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of milk or water to help restore the creamy sauce to its original silky consistency. Microwaving is possible but watch carefully and stir regularly to prevent the sauce from separating. A gentle reheat keeps the flavors vibrant and the dish as satisfying as the first time around.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is perfect for holding onto the Alfredo sauce, other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or fettuccine will work wonderfully. Just make sure to adjust cooking times according to the pasta you choose.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and consider adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for a hearty, flavorful vegetarian twist that still pairs perfectly with the creamy Alfredo sauce.
Can I use a lighter version of cream or milk?
You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce, but keep in mind the sauce will be less rich and creamy. Adjust the amount of cheese or butter accordingly to maintain a good level of flavor and texture.
How can I make this dish more spicy?
To spice things up, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic or mix in some hot sauce into the Alfredo sauce. A spicy kick pairs surprisingly well with the creamy, cheesy flavors in this recipe.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying out the pasta?
The key is gentle reheating over low heat and adding a little bit of milk or cream to keep the sauce moist. Stir frequently and avoid high heat to prevent the pasta from drying out or the sauce from separating.
Final Thoughts
This Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce Recipe is more than just a meal — it’s comfort food at its finest, packed with flavors that feel like home. Its simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it a perfect go-to for busy weeknights or whenever you need a satisfying dinner. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience how creamy, cheesy, and savory comfort comes together in a bowl. Bon appétit!
Print
Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce is a hearty and comforting meal that combines tender ground beef with al dente bowtie pasta, all smothered in a creamy homemade Alfredo sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it balances rich flavors with simple ingredients to create a satisfying Italian-inspired dish.
Ingredients
Beef and Pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Alfredo Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Beef: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Garlic and Season: To the cooked beef, add the minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Prepare Alfredo Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Stir in the heavy cream, milk, and butter into the beef mixture. Allow the mixture to heat gently, stirring frequently until the butter melts and the cream begins to simmer.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring continuously until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Add garlic powder if using, and adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained bowtie pasta to the skillet with the beef Alfredo sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce and combine all ingredients.
- Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top if desired. Serve immediately for the best creaminess and flavor.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and provides superior flavor.
- You can add steamed vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added nutrition.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently over low heat.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta so it maintains a good texture when tossed in the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
