Beef And Bowtie Pasta With Alfredo Sauce Recipe

Silky Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce Recipe

Craving a hearty beef and bowtie pasta that promises pure comfort?

pasta shapes dance beautifully with tender meat chunks in this creamy Alfredo dream.

Weeknight cooking just got seriously delicious with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor.

Rich parmesan cheese melts into silky sauce, coating each perfectly shaped bowtie noodle.

Experienced home cooks and kitchen newbies alike will adore this simple yet impressive meal.

Quick preparation means you can have dinner on the table in under thirty minutes.

Dive into this satisfying plate that guarantees smiles around the dinner table.

Ingredients for Beef and Bowtie Pasta Alfredo

Pasta Base:
  • Bowtie Pasta: A classic pasta shape that provides a fun and playful texture to the dish.
Protein:
  • Beef Slices: Tender meat that adds rich flavor and protein to the meal.
Sauce Components:
  • Heavy Cream, Milk: Create a smooth and creamy base for the Alfredo sauce.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp and nutty flavor that gives depth to the sauce.
  • Butter: Provides richness and helps create a silky sauce texture.
  • Garlic: Brings a robust and aromatic flavor to the dish.
Vegetable Additions:
  • Mushrooms: Earthy vegetables that add texture and umami flavor to the recipe.
  • Spinach: Optional green that introduces extra nutrition and a pop of color.
Seasoning Group:
  • Salt, Pepper, Italian Seasoning: Essential spices that enhance and balance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Cooking Liquid:
  • Olive Oil: Helps in cooking the beef and prevents sticking to the skillet.

Cooking Beef and Bowtie Pasta Alfredo

Cooking Beef and Bowtie Pasta Alfredo

Step 1: Boil Bowtie Pasta

Cook the bowtie pasta in a large pot of salted water until it reaches al dente perfection.

Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside, ready to become the star of your delicious meal.

Step 2: Sizzle Savory Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Carefully place beef slices into the hot pan, allowing them to sear and develop a beautiful golden-brown crust.

Once browned, transfer the beef to a separate plate and keep warm.

Step 3: Awaken Garlic Flavors

In the same skillet where you cooked the beef, melt butter and add minced garlic.

Let the garlic dance and release its aromatic magic, filling your kitchen with an irresistible fragrance.

Step 4: Sauté Mushroom Magic

Add fresh mushrooms to the skillet:
  • Sliced mushrooms
  • Butter
  • Garlic

Cook the mushrooms for 2-3 minutes until they become tender and slightly golden, absorbing all the delicious flavors from the pan.

Step 5: Create Creamy Alfredo Sauce

Pour into the skillet:
  • Heavy cream
  • Milk
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Italian seasoning

Stir the ingredients continuously, allowing the sauce to thicken and develop a luxurious, velvety texture.

Step 6: Reunite Beef With Sauce

Return the previously cooked beef slices to the skillet.

Gently mix the meat into the creamy sauce, ensuring every piece is generously coated.

Step 7: Combine Pasta And Sauce

Add the drained bowtie pasta to the skillet.

Toss everything together, making sure each pasta piece is lovingly embraced by the rich, creamy sauce.

Step 8: Wilt Fresh Spinach

If desired, stir in fresh spinach leaves.

Let them gently wilt and integrate into the dish, adding a pop of color and nutritional boost.

Step 9: Serve And Enjoy

Plate the pasta immediately while hot.

Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for an additional layer of cheesy goodness.

Serve and watch everyone’s eyes light up with delight!

Simple Tips for Beef and Bowtie Pasta Alfredo

  • Choose high-quality bowtie pasta to ensure the best texture and ability to hold the creamy sauce.
  • Pat beef slices dry before cooking to achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust and maximize flavor development.
  • Gradually add Parmesan cheese while stirring constantly to prevent lumps and create a silky-smooth Alfredo sauce.
  • Replace spinach with kale or arugula for a different nutritional profile and slightly peppery flavor boost.
  • Substitute bowtie pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a lighter, gluten-free version of the dish.

Different Styles for Beef and Bowtie Pasta Alfredo

  • Chicken Alfredo Pasta: Replace beef with sliced chicken breast for a lighter protein option, maintaining the creamy sauce and bowtie pasta base.
  • Vegetarian Mushroom Alfredo: Swap beef with roasted portobello mushrooms or tofu, keeping the rich sauce and adding extra vegetables like bell peppers.
  • Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free bowtie pasta and ensure Parmesan cheese is gluten-free certified. Replace wheat-based ingredients with alternative options.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream, use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan, and select plant-based milk for a lactose-free adaptation.

Pairings That Fit Beef and Bowtie Pasta Alfredo

  • Creamy Comfort Plate: Serve this hearty pasta dish in large, warm bowls to showcase its rich, velvety texture.
  • Gourmet Garnish Charm: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and fresh herbal notes that complement the creamy sauce.
  • Wine Pairing Perfection: Enjoy with a glass of medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Pinot Noir to balance the richness of the Alfredo sauce and beef.
  • Fresh Side Kick: Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the dish's creamy heaviness and add a refreshing contrast.

How to Save Beef and Bowtie Pasta Alfredo

  • Transfer leftover pasta to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent contamination.
  • Wrap the pasta in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label with the date and store for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing dishes with spinach for best texture.
  • Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few drops of water or milk to prevent drying. Cover and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

  • Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare this Beef and Bowtie Pasta Alfredo in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of milk to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture.

  • Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While bowtie pasta works great, you can substitute with penne, fettuccine, or rotini. Choose a pasta shape that holds sauce well and has a similar cooking time.

  • What cut of beef works best for this recipe?

Sirloin or flank steak are excellent choices. They’re tender, flavorful, and cook quickly. Slice the beef against the grain for maximum tenderness and easier eating.

Why Beef and Bowtie Pasta Alfredo Hits the Mark

Why Beef and Bowtie Pasta Alfredo Hits the Mark
  • Whip Up a Gourmet Meal: This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish that impresses without requiring professional cooking skills.
  • Customize with Ease: Flexible recipe allows adding spinach or adjusting seasonings, making it perfect for adapting to personal taste preferences or using available ingredients.
  • Quick Weeknight Wonder: Prepares in one skillet with minimal cleanup, delivering a satisfying meal that combines protein, pasta, and creamy sauce in under 30 minutes.
  • Family-Friendly Feast: Crowd-pleasing combination of tender beef, pasta, and rich Alfredo sauce appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys dinner.
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Beef And Bowtie Pasta With Alfredo Sauce Recipe

Beef And Bowtie Pasta With Alfredo Sauce Recipe


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4.8 from 34 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Hearty beef and bowtie pasta with alfredo sauce brings comfort to dinner tables across North America. Creamy cheese sauce and tender beef create a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) beef sirloin, sliced thin

Pasta:

  • 12 ounces (340 grams) bowtie pasta

Sauce and Cheese Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) milk
  • 1/2 cup (50 grams) Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) butter
  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil

Herbs and Seasonings:

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Additional Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup (75 grams) mushrooms, sliced

Instructions

  1. Prepare bowtie pasta according to package directions at a rolling boil, then drain and reserve.
  2. Sear beef slices in a hot skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat until golden brown, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate.
  3. Reduce skillet heat to medium and melt butter, then add minced garlic and sauté until aromatic, about 30-45 seconds.
  4. Incorporate mushrooms into the skillet, cooking until they release moisture and turn tender, roughly 2-3 minutes.
  5. Create the Alfredo sauce by whisking heavy cream and milk together, then gradually blend in Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.
  6. Reintroduce browned beef slices into the creamy sauce, ensuring even coating and heating through.
  7. Gently fold drained pasta into the sauce, tossing carefully to distribute ingredients uniformly.
  8. Add fresh spinach and allow it to wilt naturally from the residual heat, approximately 1 minute.
  9. Transfer to serving plates immediately, optional: sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top for extra richness.

Notes

  • Customize pasta thickness by choosing different bowtie pasta sizes for varied texture and visual appeal.
  • Opt for lean beef cuts like sirloin or tenderloin to reduce fat content while maintaining rich protein levels.
  • Create a gluten-free version by using alternative pasta made from chickpea or rice flour and ensuring Parmesan is certified gluten-free.
  • Enhance nutritional value by adding extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for increased fiber and micronutrient content.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 670 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 390 mg
  • Fat: 42 g
  • Saturated Fat: 18 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 22 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 43 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg
Amanda Bennett

Amanda Bennett

Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing and Development, Culinary Instruction, Food Styling and Photography

Education

​Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Asheville, NC
​Diploma in Culinary Arts
Emphasized practical cooking skills, nutrition, and kitchen management.​

Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge, MA
Certificate in Professional Pastry Arts
Specialized in baking techniques, dessert presentation, and flavor profiling


Amanda’s roots run deep in the Southern hills, where every meal started fresh from the garden and every dessert came with a story. She trained at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and sharpened her pastry skills at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, blending classic technique with everyday charm.
At The Liffey, Amanda’s passion is making baking and home cooking feel natural and joyful. She’s all about single recipes that are simple enough for a busy afternoon, but special enough to make someone’s day a little sweeter.

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