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
Scale
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
