Creamy Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Beef

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Bowtie Pasta: Farfalle is perfect for this dish as it holds sauce nicely. If you don’t have it, use penne or fusilli. Both are great alternatives!

Ground Beef: I love using lean ground beef, but you can swap it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a plant-based version, try lentils or your favorite meat substitute!

Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. If you want a healthier alternative, you can use half-and-half or even evaporated milk. Just remember, it will be less creamy!

Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives flavor and creaminess. If you’re looking for a different taste, Pecorino Romano works well, too. Just watch for its saltiness!

How Can I Make My Sauce Creamy Without Curdling?

One common fear is curdling when adding cream to a hot mixture. To avoid this, here’s a simple guide:

• Make sure to reduce the heat before adding the heavy cream to the pan; this keeps it from boiling, which helps prevent curdling.
• Stir the cream in slowly and continuously to mix it in evenly.
• If you notice the sauce thickening too much, don’t hesitate to add a splash of broth to reach your desired creaminess!

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Beef

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Main Ingredients:

• 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped

For The Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or beef broth
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Garnish:

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

How Much Time Will You Need?

This dish takes about 20 minutes of prep and cooking time. It’s a quick and easy recipe that will have you enjoying creamy garlic parmesan pasta in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Bowtie Pasta:

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Brown the Ground Beef:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula as it cooks. Season with a little salt and pepper. Once cooked, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside, draining any excess fat if needed.

3. Saute the Onion and Garlic:

Using the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and cook it until it becomes softened, about 3 minutes. After that, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant and golden.

4. Create the Creamy Sauce:

Pour in the broth and bring it to a simmer, making sure to scrape any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Then, reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly.

5. Add the Cheese:

Next, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce. If it seems too thick, don’t hesitate to add a bit more broth until you reach a creamy consistency.

6. Combine the Ingredients:

Add the cooked ground beef back into the skillet and mix everything together. Then add the bowtie pasta and gently toss everything until the pasta is well-coated in the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.

7. Season and Serve:

Finally, taste the dish and season it with additional salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Garnish with the chopped parsley before serving hot!

You’ve just created a delicious creamy garlic parmesan bowtie pasta with beef! Enjoy every bite!

FAQ for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Beef

Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?

Absolutely! While bowtie (farfalle) is great for holding the sauce, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.

What Can I Use Instead of Ground Beef?

If you want a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken work well. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils, mushrooms, or a meat substitute like tofu or tempeh to maintain a hearty texture!

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if it’s too thick. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, for even heating.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the beef in advance, then store them separately in the fridge. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve, combine everything, and enjoy your delicious meal!