Best Beef And Bowtie Pasta With Creamy Alfredo Sauce Recipe

The Creamiest Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce Recipe

Creamy Alfredo sauce brings this beef and bowtie pasta to life with unexpected richness and comfort.

Tender meat chunks dance among delicate pasta shapes, creating a symphony of flavors.

Weeknight dinners demand something special, and this recipe delivers pure satisfaction.

Cheese melts perfectly, coating each bowtie with velvety smoothness that makes you crave another bite.

Savory beef provides protein-packed substance to complement the silky sauce.

Home cooks will appreciate how quickly this meal comes together with minimal ingredients.

Let’s transform an ordinary evening into a delicious culinary adventure you won’t forget.

Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

  • Craft a Gourmet Feast: Transform a simple pasta dish into a restaurant-worthy meal with minimal cooking skills required.
  • One-Skillet Wonder: Minimize dishes and cleanup by preparing the entire meal in a single pan, saving time and effort.
  • Customize Your Comfort: Easily adapt the recipe by adding or removing ingredients like mushrooms and spinach to suit personal taste preferences.
  • Family Dinner Champion: Create a hearty, protein-packed meal that satisfies both adults and kids with its creamy texture and familiar flavors.

Ingredients List for Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

Main Ingredients:
  • Bowtie Pasta: A fun, bow-shaped pasta that catches and holds sauce perfectly.
  • Beef: Provides hearty protein and rich flavor to the dish.
Sauce Ingredients:
  • Heavy Cream, Parmesan Cheese: Creates a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce base.
  • Butter, Garlic: Adds depth and aromatic flavor to the sauce.
  • Salt, Pepper, Italian Seasoning, Red Pepper Flakes: Provides balanced and complex seasoning.
Optional Vegetable Ingredients:
  • Mushrooms, Spinach: Adds extra nutrition and texture to the pasta dish.
Garnish Ingredients:
  • Fresh Parsley, Extra Parmesan Cheese: Adds a fresh finish and additional flavor to the meal.
Cooking Oil:
  • Olive Oil: Helps cook the beef and prevents sticking during preparation.

How to Make Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

Step 1: Boil Bowtie Pasta

Cook the bowtie pasta in a large pot of salted water until it reaches al dente perfection. Drain the pasta completely and set it aside, ready for its flavor adventure.

Step 2: Brown Delicious Beef

Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium-high heat. Introduce the beef to the hot surface and cook until it develops a gorgeous golden-brown crust.

Transfer the cooked beef to a temporary plate.

Step 3: Create Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, melt butter and add freshly minced garlic.

Sauté until the kitchen fills with an irresistible aromatic fragrance.

Step 4: Craft Creamy Alfredo Sauce

Pour heavy cream into the skillet and stir with enthusiasm.

Add the following ingredients:
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Italian seasoning
  • Red pepper flakes

Whisk continuously until the sauce transforms into a smooth, velvety consistency.

Step 5: Combine Protein and Vegetables

Return the browned beef to the skillet.

If desired, incorporate:
  • Sliced mushrooms
  • Fresh spinach leaves

Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to mingle and develop.

Step 6: Mix Pasta With Sauce

Introduce the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet.

Gently toss and coat every pasta piece with the luxurious Alfredo sauce.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Plate the pasta immediately while hot.

Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley for an elegant final touch.

Helpful Notes on Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

  • Opt for high-quality Parmesan cheese to enhance the creamy Alfredo sauce's rich flavor and smooth texture.
  • Choose lean ground beef or sirloin for a healthier protein option that keeps the dish light yet satisfying.
  • Drain pasta immediately after cooking to prevent overcooking and maintain the perfect al dente texture.
  • Add fresh mushrooms and spinach for extra nutrients and a delightful boost of flavor and color to the dish.
  • Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme to personalize the Alfredo sauce and create a unique taste profile.

Flavor Variations for Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

  • Gluten-Free Version: Replace bowtie pasta with gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or quinoa. Use cornstarch to thicken the Alfredo sauce instead of wheat-based flour.
  • Chicken Swap: Substitute beef with grilled chicken breast for a lighter protein option. Season chicken with similar Italian herbs for consistent flavor profile.
  • Vegetarian Alternative: Replace beef with roasted portobello mushrooms or plant-based ground meat substitute. Add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for texture and nutrition.
  • Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta. Reduce cream quantity and increase protein portion for a keto-friendly meal.

Serving Ideas for Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

  • Cozy Family Dinner Night: Serve this hearty pasta in large, warm bowls with extra Parmesan sprinkled on top, creating a comforting meal perfect for gathering loved ones around the table.
  • Gourmet Lunch Upgrade: Pack the pasta in a stylish container for a delicious work or school lunch, adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs just before serving to keep the flavors vibrant.
  • Italian Feast Presentation: Plate the dish on a rustic wooden board with a side of garlic bread and a small mixed green salad, transforming the simple pasta into an elegant restaurant-style meal.
  • Quick Meal Prep Champion: Prepare extra portions to store in individual containers for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week, ensuring a delicious and satisfying lunch or dinner option.

Storage Advice for Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Cool the pasta completely before transferring to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Separate sauce and pasta if possible to maintain better texture.
  • Keep the dish in a shallow container to help it cool faster and prevent moisture buildup.

FAQs

  • What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Bowtie pasta (farfalle) is ideal, but you can substitute with penne or rotini if needed. The shape helps capture the creamy Alfredo sauce perfectly.

  • Can I use a different type of meat instead of beef?

Ground turkey or chicken work great as alternative protein options. They’ll blend well with the Alfredo sauce and provide similar texture and flavor.

  • Is this recipe considered a one-pan meal?

Yes, this recipe is a true one-pan dish. You’ll cook the beef, prepare the sauce, and combine all ingredients in the same skillet, making cleanup easy and minimizing dish washing.

  • How can I make this recipe more budget-friendly?

Use less expensive cuts of beef like ground beef or beef chuck. You can also reduce the amount of meat and add more vegetables to stretch the dish without compromising flavor.

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Best Beef And Bowtie Pasta With Creamy Alfredo Sauce Recipe

Best Beef And Bowtie Pasta With Creamy Alfredo Sauce Recipe


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4.6 from 23 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Succulent beef and bowtie pasta with alfredo sauce delights taste buds with creamy Italian-inspired comfort. Hearty ingredients blend seamlessly, creating a satisfying meal cherished by home cooks who crave rich, homemade flavors.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 1 pound beef sirloin or ground beef

Pasta:

  • 12 ounces (340 grams) bowtie (farfalle) pasta

Sauce and Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Optional Vegetables:

  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 cup spinach, chopped

Instructions

  1. Boil bowtie pasta in salted water for 8-10 minutes until al dente, then drain thoroughly and set aside.
  2. Sear ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat at 375°F, breaking into crumbles until completely browned and no pink remains, approximately 6-7 minutes.
  3. Remove beef from skillet, leaving behind flavorful drippings.
  4. Reduce heat to medium and melt butter, adding minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until aromatic and golden.
  5. Pour heavy cream into the skillet, whisking continuously to prevent scorching. Gradually incorporate Parmesan cheese, creating a smooth, creamy consistency.
  6. Season Alfredo sauce with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes, stirring until well integrated.
  7. Reintroduce browned beef to the sauce, then fold in sliced mushrooms and fresh spinach leaves.
  8. Simmer the mixture for 3-4 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and vegetables to slightly wilt.
  9. Gently fold cooked bowtie pasta into the creamy beef mixture, ensuring each pasta piece is evenly coated.
  10. Transfer to serving plates, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley for enhanced presentation and flavor.

Notes

  • Customize pasta thickness by choosing different bowtie pasta sizes for varied texture and visual appeal.
  • Opt for lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey for a lighter protein option.
  • Reduce sauce richness by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a healthier alternative.
  • Enhance dish nutrition by adding extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for more color and vitamins.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 720 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 48 g
  • Saturated Fat: 22 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 24 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 140 mg
John Conley

John Conley

Founder & Culinary Storyteller

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Writing, Home Cooking Techniques, Seasonal Ingredient Utilization​

Education

Lane Community College, Eugene, OR
​Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on foundational cooking techniques, kitchen safety, and menu planning.

​Gotham Writers Workshop, New York, NY
Course in Food Writing
Explored the art of crafting engaging culinary narratives and recipe development.


John grew up where food meant connection: big bowls, warm kitchens, and meals that told a story. After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Lane Community College and diving deep into food writing at Gotham Writers Workshop, he found his calling: turning everyday recipes into something worth savoring.
At The Liffey, John’s focus is all about crafting dishes that feel easy, honest, and full of heart.

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