Beef And Bowtie Pasta With Alfredo Sauce Recipe

There's nothing quite like a comforting bowl of beef and bowtie pasta with Alfredo sauce to bring the family together at dinnertime. The combination of tender beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce makes this dish an instant favorite.

I first tried this recipe on a chilly evening when I was craving something hearty but didn't want to spend hours in the kitchen. The result? A quick and easy meal that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant. Now, it's a go-to for busy weeknights and special occasions alike.

Why You'll Love This Beef And Bowtie Pasta With Alfredo Sauce

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite comfort food. This beef and bowtie pasta with Alfredo sauce checks all the right boxes.

First, it's incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you'll have a mouthwatering meal on the table in under 30 minutes.

It's also budget-friendly. Ground beef is an affordable protein option, and the other ingredients—like pasta, cream, and cheese—are pantry staples you likely already have on hand.

Not to mention, it's a versatile recipe. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have available or adjust seasonings to suit your personal taste.

Finally, the creamy Alfredo sauce is simply irresistible. Rich, velvety, and packed with flavor, it coats every piece of pasta and beef, ensuring a perfect bite every time.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component contributes to the rich and satisfying final result.

Bowtie pasta (farfalle) is the star of the show. Its unique shape holds onto the Alfredo sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful. You can substitute with penne or rotini if needed, but bowtie pasta provides the best texture for this dish.

Ground beef adds heartiness and depth. I recommend using lean ground beef (85/15) to keep the dish from being too greasy while still providing a rich taste. If you prefer, you can swap in ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.

Heavy cream and Parmesan cheese are the key ingredients in the Alfredo sauce. The cream provides a luxurious texture, while freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty, savory depth. Avoid pre-grated cheese, as it doesn’t melt as smoothly.

Garlic and butter enhance the sauce's richness. Freshly minced garlic adds a deep, aromatic flavor that elevates the entire dish. Butter not only helps cook the garlic but also gives the sauce a silky finish.

You'll also need salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to bring all the flavors together. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a little heat if you like a spicy kick.

How To Make This Beef And Bowtie Pasta With Alfredo Sauce

Making this dish is easier than you might think, and it comes together quickly for a stress-free dinner.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Once fragrant, pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Reduce the heat to low and gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until fully melted and combined, creating a smooth, creamy sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste.

Return the cooked beef to the skillet and stir to combine. Then, add the drained bowtie pasta, tossing everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the Alfredo sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, store them properly to enjoy later. Transfer the pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken, but it can be revived with a splash of milk or cream when reheating.

For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

To reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a little extra cream or milk to bring back its original creamy consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly adaptable, making it perfect for customizing to your preferences.

For a healthier twist, swap heavy cream for half-and-half, and use ground turkey instead of beef. The dish will be lighter but still creamy and flavorful.

Want more veggies? Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for added texture and nutrients.

If you're craving extra protein, try using grilled chicken or shrimp instead of ground beef. Both pair beautifully with the Alfredo sauce and pasta.

For a spicy kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.

No bowtie pasta? No problem! Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine all work well as substitutes.

With so many ways to make it your own, this beef and bowtie pasta with Alfredo sauce is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy!

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