Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef

Published: June 13, 2025

by Victoria

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this recipe can be on your table in no time.
Flavor-Packed: Each bite offers a rich blend of garlic, cheese, and beef that satisfies your taste buds.
Versatile Dish: Perfect for lunch or dinner, you can customize it with different vegetables or proteins.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this creamy pasta dish loaded with flavor.
One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes mean more time to enjoy your meal and relax!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready helps streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Skillet
Colander
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Essential for boiling the pasta efficiently.
Skillet: Ideal for browning the beef and combining all ingredients.
Colander: Helps drain the pasta without losing any deliciousness.

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Beef

1 lb ground beef
12 oz bowtie pasta
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 (10 oz) can Rotel tomatoes with chilies, undrained

For the Cheese Sauce

2 tbsp butter
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to make Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Use a wooden spoon to break apart any clumps.

Step 3: Add Seasonings

Stir in the Italian seasoning and undrained Rotel tomatoes. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to meld flavors together.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Cheese

Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish your dish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef.

Serving this delicious dish is as important as making it. Here are some creative ways to serve your Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef.

Family Style

Serve the pasta in a large bowl for a communal feel. Let everyone help themselves to a generous portion.

Individual Plates

Plate individual servings for a more formal presentation. Top each serving with extra cheese and parsley for garnish.

With Fresh Herbs

Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top before serving for a pop of color and added flavor.

Side Salad

Pair the pasta with a crisp side salad. A simple mixed greens salad complements the richness beautifully.

Garlic Bread

Serve warm, crusty garlic bread on the side. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce.

How to Perfect Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef.

Perfecting your Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef can elevate this dish even more. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve the best results.

Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh ground beef and high-quality cheeses for better flavor.
Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook your bowtie pasta al dente for the best texture that holds up against the creamy sauce.
Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to add more or less Italian seasoning based on your heat preference.
Mix Cheeses: Combine different cheeses like gouda or cheddar for extra richness.
Add Veggies: Consider adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for a nutritious boost.
Leftover Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef.

Choosing the right sides can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that pair well with your pasta dish.

Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and a tangy flavor that balances out the creaminess of the pasta.
Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious side that is quick to prepare and colorful on the plate.
Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds a hearty element alongside your pasta.
Garlic Knots – Soft garlic knots are perfect for dipping into any leftover sauce from your pasta dish.
Caprese Salad – This fresh salad made of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offers bright flavors that complement rich dishes nicely.
Stuffed Mushrooms – These savory bites filled with cheese and herbs make an excellent appetizer or side dish option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef, it’s easy to overlook some details that could affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are common mistakes to watch for:

Skipping the seasoning: Failing to add Italian seasoning can lead to a bland dish. Always season your beef well for maximum flavor.
Overcooking the pasta: Cooking bowtie pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow the package instructions for al dente texture.
Not draining the tomatoes: Using undrained Rotel tomatoes adds extra liquid that can make the dish soupy. Drain them carefully before adding.
Using low-quality cheese: Low-quality cheeses may not melt well, affecting creaminess. Opt for fresh, high-quality Parmesan and mozzarella for best results.
Neglecting to stir frequently: Not stirring the pasta while cooking can cause it to stick together. Stir often to keep everything evenly mixed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
This dish stays fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef .

Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
It can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef .

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through until warmed through.
Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to help rehydrate as you stir.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef so special?

This recipe is special because it combines rich flavors from garlic and Parmesan with creamy beef, creating a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare.

Can I customize this Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition. Adjusting spices can also give it a different twist.

How do I ensure my pasta doesn’t stick together?

To prevent sticking, stir your pasta regularly while it’s boiling. Adding a little oil can also help keep it separate.

What is the best way to store leftovers of Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months for longer preservation.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Beef is a delightful blend of flavors that makes it perfect for any weeknight dinner. It’s super easy, super cheesy, and packed with flavor that everyone will love. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices. We encourage you to try this recipe; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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