This Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce combines savory ground beef, tender bowtie pasta, and a rich, cheesy Alfredo sauce for the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this dish is flavorful, filling, and easy to whip up in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The Alfredo sauce is decadently cheesy and perfectly coats the bowtie pasta.
• Hearty and Satisfying: Ground beef adds a savory, meaty element to the dish.
• Quick and Easy: A weeknight-friendly recipe that’s ready in no time.
• Customizable: Easily add veggies or swap out proteins to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef: Adds protein and hearty flavor to the dish.
• 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle): Perfect for holding the creamy Alfredo sauce.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: For cooking the garlic and beef.

• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant, savory kick to the sauce.
• 1 cup heavy cream: The base of the rich Alfredo sauce.
• 1 cup beef broth: Enhances the beefy flavor and balances the creaminess.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds cheesy, umami richness to the sauce.
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Makes the sauce extra creamy and cheesy.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the flavor.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Brings out all the flavors.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

How to Make Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles with a spatula (about 5–7 minutes).
3. Season with salt and pepper, then remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

1. In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and beef broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Gradually add the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

1. Add the cooked pasta and ground beef to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce.
2. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated and the beef is evenly distributed.
3. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley, if desired.

Tips for the Best Beef and Bowtie Pasta

• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly due to added anti-caking agents.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook it al dente so it holds its shape when mixed with the sauce.
• Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or peas for added nutrition and flavor.
• Swap the Protein: Try ground turkey, chicken, or sausage instead of beef for a different twist.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Herby Twist: Stir in fresh basil or parsley for extra freshness.
• Lightened-Up Sauce: Substitute half of the heavy cream with milk for a lighter version.

What to Serve with Beef and Bowtie Pasta

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Side Salad: A crisp green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of beef broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Freeze: Freeze the pasta in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes! Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are great alternatives to bowtie pasta.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Avoid boiling the cream and cook the sauce over low to medium heat.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your beef broth is gluten-free.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 530
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Sugar: 2g

Final Thoughts

This Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce is a creamy, hearty dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s a delicious and satisfying recipe that everyone will love.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your photos on Instagram or Pinterest, and let me know if you added your own creative twist.

Happy cooking! 🍝✨