Tender chunks of beef, buttery bowtie pasta, and a rich garlic Parmesan cream sauce come together in this cozy, comforting dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or indulgent weekend feasts. This pasta is all about warmth and heartiness, delivering melt-in-your-mouth beef with every bite coated in savory, cheesy goodness.

Creamy Beef Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce

The magic lies in the slow-simmered beef and the creamy, garlicky sauce that hugs every curve of the pasta. It feels like a restaurant-style meal but is surprisingly easy to whip up at home. Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting friends, this pasta is sure to earn rave reviews.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Bowtie pasta, also known as farfalle, is ideal for holding onto creamy sauces thanks to its ridged and pinched center. It adds a playful texture and ensures every bite has the perfect balance of sauce and meat. If needed, you can substitute with penne or rotini, but the charm of farfalle really elevates this dish.

Ingredients for the Creamy Beef Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Beef Chuck or Stew Meat: This cut becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked, making it perfect for hearty pasta dishes.

Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle): Holds sauce well and adds a visual appeal to the final presentation.

Garlic Cloves: Essential for building deep, aromatic flavor in the sauce.

Heavy Cream: Adds a rich, velvety texture to the Parmesan sauce.

Parmesan Cheese (Freshly Grated): Delivers sharp, nutty flavor and thickens the sauce beautifully.

Beef Broth: Provides moisture and boosts the savory notes of the beef.

Tomatoes (Diced or Crushed): Adds a subtle acidity that balances the richness of the cream.

Butter and Olive Oil: Used to sear the beef and build a rich base for the sauce.

Salt, Pepper, and Italian Seasoning: Enhance and deepen the overall flavor profile.

Fresh Parsley (optional): Adds a pop of freshness and color at the end.

How To Make the Creamy Beef Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Heat a mix of butter and olive oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven. Season your beef chunks with salt and pepper, then sear them on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the diced tomatoes and Italian seasoning, scraping up the flavorful bits from the bottom.

Step 3: Simmer the Beef

Return the seared beef to the skillet, then pour in the beef broth. Bring to a low simmer, cover, and let it cook for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the beef is simmering, boil the bowtie pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Create the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Once the beef is tender, reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan. Let the sauce thicken slightly while gently stirring.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly. Serve hot, garnished with more Parmesan and chopped parsley if desired.

How to Serve and Store This Creamy Beef Bowtie Pasta

Serve this pasta dish hot, straight from the skillet, ideally topped with a generous shower of grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. It’s perfect alongside garlic bread or a crisp green salad to balance the richness.

To store, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For freezing, portion it out and freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to bring back its creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. While bowtie pasta is ideal for holding the sauce, penne, rotini, or rigatoni are all great substitutes.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Is it okay to use pre-grated Parmesan?

Freshly grated Parmesan is best for flavor and melting quality, but pre-grated will work in a pinch.

Can I use ground beef instead of stew meat?

Yes, though the texture and depth of flavor will change. Brown the ground beef well and reduce the simmering time accordingly.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or whole milk can be used with a touch of cornstarch to help thicken the sauce.

Want More Dinner Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this creamy beef bowtie pasta, you’ll probably enjoy these other comforting favorites:

Creamy Chicken and Spinach Lasagna for a layered, cheesy bake.
Cajun Shrimp Alfredo Pasta if you love bold flavors with creamy sauce.
Garlic Herb Butter Steak Bites for an easy skillet meat fix.
Baked Ziti with Sausage and Ricotta for a hearty Italian classic.
One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta if you’re into earthy, savory blends.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with the parsley or add a touch of basil? Did you sneak in mushrooms or roasted red peppers?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Creamy Beef Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Author: Kate Walton
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Tender beef and bowtie pasta in a garlic Parmesan cream sauce make this a rich, satisfying dinner perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings.

Instructions

Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet or Dutch oven. Season beef with salt and pepper, then sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Add garlic to the same skillet and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in diced tomatoes and Italian seasoning.
Return beef to the skillet. Pour in beef broth, bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 1 to 1.5 hours until tender.
Cook bowtie pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Lower heat on beef mixture. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan. Let it thicken slightly.
Add pasta and toss to coat evenly. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve hot.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Category: Dinner