Indulge in Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce: 2 Delicious Recipes

Savor Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Beef bowtie pasta, often hailed as a go-to for busy evenings, is a truly delightful and versatile dish that brings smiles to faces around the dinner table. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in warmth, making it a perfect `comforting meal` for any season. The combination of succulent ground beef, perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, and a luscious `creamy Alfredo` sauce creates an symphony of flavors and textures that satisfies even the pickiest eaters. This recipe is designed to be an `easy weeknight meal`, meaning you don’t need to be a gourmet chef to achieve a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen.

Why Make This Dish?

There are countless reasons to add this `beef bowtie pasta` recipe to your regular rotation. Firstly, its simplicity makes it incredibly accessible; most ingredients are likely already in your pantry. Secondly, it’s a robust and satisfying dish that truly fills you up, offering great value and hearty sustenance for your `family dinner`. Beyond its ease, this `delicious pasta dish` is highly adaptable. You can easily adjust seasonings, add your favorite vegetables, or experiment with different cheeses to tailor it to your family’s preferences. For another comforting family favorite, consider trying our Creamy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Rolls. Moreover, it’s a fantastic way to use ground beef, turning a common protein into something extraordinary without much fuss. If you’re looking for more inspiration for your next meal, visit our Carina Recipes Pinterest page for a wealth of ideas.

Gather Recipe Ingredients

Before you begin cooking this delightful `beef bowtie pasta` dish, taking a moment to gather all your ingredients can make the cooking process much smoother and more enjoyable. Having everything prepped and ready will streamline your efforts, especially when you’re aiming for a `quick prep` dinner. This recipe relies on a combination of fresh produce, quality meat, and common dairy products, ensuring a flavorful and balanced meal without requiring obscure specialty items. The beauty of this recipe lies in its use of `simple ingredients` that, when combined, create something truly special.

What You’ll Need

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 or 90/10 lean)
• 12 ounces bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Pantry Staples

Many of the items for this `ground beef recipe` are likely already in your pantry, making it even easier to whip up on a moment’s notice. You’ll want to ensure you have a good quality olive oil for sautéing, as well as salt and pepper, which are fundamental for seasoning. The beef broth adds depth to the sauce, while the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese are crucial for achieving that signature `creamy Alfredo` texture and flavor. Having these `simple ingredients` on hand means less last-minute grocery runs and more time enjoying your cooking.

Prepare Your Delicious Dish

Embarking on the creation of this `beef bowtie pasta` dish is straightforward, promising a rewarding culinary experience. The prep steps are designed for efficiency, ensuring that you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your `comforting meal`. Starting with organized ingredients is key, as is a basic understanding of the cooking sequence, which prevents any last-minute scrambling. This approach contributes significantly to the dish’s status as an `easy weeknight meal`.

Quick Prep Steps

1. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. This aromatic base is crucial for developing the `savory flavors` of the dish.
2. Measure out your beef broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Having these liquids and dairy ready will ensure a smooth transition when you start building the sauce.
3. Open and prepare your can of diced tomatoes. Draining is not necessary as the liquid will contribute to the sauce’s consistency and taste.
4. Set out your bowtie pasta. Checking the cooking instructions on the package beforehand can save time later.
5. Gather your primary cooking utensils, such as a large pot for pasta, a deep skillet for the beef and sauce, and measuring cups and spoons. This setup ensures a seamless cooking flow.

Following these `quick prep` steps will not only make the cooking process more enjoyable but will also help you create this `delicious pasta dish` with minimal stress. Being prepared is half the battle won in the kitchen!

Cook the Bowtie Pasta

The foundation of any great pasta dish is perfectly cooked pasta, and our `beef bowtie pasta` is no exception. Bowtie pasta, also known as farfalle, offers a delightful texture and shape that beautifully cradles the rich sauce and ground beef. To achieve ideal results, you’ll want to ensure your pasta is cooked al dente—meaning tender but firm to the bite. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce and helps it absorb the `savory flavors` effectively.

Begin by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. A good rule of thumb is to use about 4-6 quarts of water for every pound of pasta, and add at least a tablespoon of salt per quart. This seasoned water is vital for infusing flavor directly into the pasta as it cooks. Once the water is boiling vigorously, add the 12 ounces of bowtie pasta. Stir immediately to prevent the pasta from sticking together, especially during the first few minutes of cooking.

Cook the pasta according to the package directions, which typically range from 10 to 12 minutes for farfalle. It’s always a good idea to taste a piece of pasta a minute or two before the suggested cooking time to check for that perfect al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta, but do not rinse it. Rinsing removes the starches that help the sauce adhere to the pasta, which is crucial for a cohesive and `delicious pasta dish`. Set the cooked pasta aside, ready to be combined with the rich `creamy Alfredo` sauce and ground beef. For more details on this versatile pasta shape, you can learn about Farfalle on Wikipedia.

Brown the Ground Beef

The hearty base of our `beef bowtie pasta` truly comes alive with perfectly browned `ground beef`. This step is crucial for developing deep, `savory flavors` that permeate the entire dish. Proper browning ensures the beef is cooked through, flavorful, and has a pleasant texture, making it an undeniable star of this `family dinner`. For similar main courses that feature lean ground meats, you might also enjoy our Ground Turkey and Peppers recipe.

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the 1 pound of ground beef. Break up the meat with a spoon as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly. Resist the urge to constantly stir; allowing the beef to sit undisturbed for a few minutes at a time will create a delicious crust and richer flavor. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, typically about 5-7 minutes. After browning, carefully drain any excess fat from the skillet. This step is important for preventing a greasy sauce and keeps the dish lighter.

Skillet Cooking Tips

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re cooking a larger batch, it’s better to brown the beef in two batches. Overcrowding can steam the meat instead of browning it, leading to less flavorful results.
• High Heat is Key: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the beef. This helps achieve a good sear and prevents the meat from stewing in its own juices.
• Season as You Go: Once the beef is nearly browned, season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This allows the flavors to meld into the meat.
• Reserve Some Fat (Optional): While draining excess fat is generally recommended, leaving a tiny bit can contribute to the richness of your sauce. Use your judgment based on the leanness of your beef. For more information on this versatile ingredient, explore Ground Beef on Wikipedia.

Once the `ground beef recipe` portion is complete and the beef is perfectly browned, add the chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This aromatic base will infuse the entire `delicious pasta dish` with incredible depth.

Make Creamy Alfredo Sauce

The heart of this `beef bowtie pasta` dish lies in its luxurious and `creamy Alfredo` sauce. A well-made Alfredo sauce transforms simple ingredients into a rich, velvety coating that ties everything together, making this an unforgettable `comforting meal`. Achieving a smooth and luscious texture is key to elevating this `easy weeknight meal` beyond the ordinary, and it’s surprisingly simple to do at home.

After the onions and garlic have been sautéed with the browned ground beef, pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained) and the beef broth. Stir well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet – these bits, known as fond, are packed with `savory flavors` and will enrich your sauce significantly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to reduce slightly. This simmering step is essential for developing depth before the cream is added.

Smooth Sauce Secrets

• Simmer, Don’t Boil: When reducing the sauce base, keep it at a gentle simmer. High heat can cause the cream to separate or curdle when it’s added later.
• Gradual Cream Addition: Slowly stir in the heavy cream. Adding it gradually and stirring constantly helps maintain a smooth consistency and prevents temperature shock that could lead to curdling.
• Low Heat for Cheese: Once the heavy cream is incorporated, reduce the heat to low before adding the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and velvety. Adding cheese to high heat can make it clump or become stringy.
• Taste and Adjust: Season the sauce generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember, the sauce should be well-seasoned, as it will coat the unseasoned pasta and beef. This careful seasoning is vital for a truly `delicious pasta dish`.

Continue to stir the sauce over low heat until it reaches your desired consistency – it should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. This method ensures your `creamy Alfredo` sauce is impeccably smooth and ready to embrace the bowtie pasta and ground beef. For another delightful dish featuring a creamy sauce, you might enjoy our Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese.

Combine Beef and Pasta

Once your `creamy Alfredo` sauce has achieved its perfect consistency and the `ground beef recipe` component is complete, it’s time to bring all the elements of your `beef bowtie pasta` together. This is where the magic happens, as the tender pasta absorbs the rich sauce and combines with the savory beef to create a truly cohesive and `delicious pasta dish` that will quickly become a `family dinner` favorite. Proper combining ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Carefully add the drained, cooked bowtie pasta directly to the skillet with the creamy beef sauce. Using tongs or a large spoon, gently toss the pasta, beef, and sauce together until everything is thoroughly coated. The goal is to ensure that each piece of bowtie pasta is enveloped in the luscious sauce, carrying those incredible `savory flavors` throughout the dish. This gentle mixing also helps to prevent the pasta from breaking apart and maintains its delightful shape.

Continue to toss for a minute or two over very low heat. This brief simmering allows the pasta to absorb more of the sauce’s flavor and ensures everything is heated through evenly. Avoid over-mixing or cooking on high heat during this stage, as it can cause the sauce to become too thick or the pasta to lose its al dente texture. The result should be a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, creating an inviting `comforting meal` that’s ready for the next step.

Season and Serve Warm

With all the components of your `beef bowtie pasta` expertly combined, the final flourish is to ensure the seasoning is perfect and to present this `delicious pasta dish` warm, inviting everyone to the table. Proper seasoning can make all the difference, enhancing the `savory flavors` and balancing the richness of the `creamy Alfredo` sauce. Serving it warm is essential for preserving the comforting qualities that make this such a wonderful `family dinner`.

Before serving, do a final taste test. Add additional salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Sometimes a small pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a subtle warmth if you enjoy a little heat. If the sauce seems a little too thick, you can stir in a splash of warm beef broth or milk to reach your desired consistency. Garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley or basil, which not only adds a burst of fresh flavor but also provides a vibrant visual contrast to the rich colors of the dish.

Serve the `beef bowtie pasta` immediately while it’s still warm. This ensures the pasta remains tender, the sauce is perfectly creamy, and the `ground beef recipe` maintains its optimal texture. You can serve it directly from the skillet or transfer it to a large serving bowl. Offer extra grated Parmesan cheese at the table for those who enjoy an additional cheesy kick. This `easy weeknight meal` is best enjoyed fresh, allowing you to savor every `comforting meal` spoonful.

Two Delicious Ways to Enjoy

While the classic `beef bowtie pasta` is a `delicious pasta dish` on its own, there are numerous ways to customize and elevate it, making each `family dinner` experience unique. Experimenting with additional ingredients can introduce new `savory flavors` and textures, transforming this `easy weeknight meal` into a gourmet delight. These variations ensure that your `ground beef recipe` stays exciting and adaptable to different palates.

Fresh Herb Ideas

Fresh herbs are a fantastic way to brighten up the rich and `creamy Alfredo` sauce. They add a layer of freshness and aromatic complexity that dried herbs simply can’t match. Here are a few ideas:

• Fresh Parsley: A classic choice, flat-leaf parsley offers a clean, peppery note that complements beef and tomato-based sauces beautifully. Stir some in at the very end or use as a garnish.
• Fresh Basil: For a slightly sweeter, aromatic touch, fresh basil pairs wonderfully with tomatoes and creamy sauces. Chiffonade (thinly slice) and sprinkle over individual servings.
• Fresh Thyme or Oregano: For a more robust, earthy flavor profile, a small amount of fresh thyme or oregano can add significant depth. Add these herbs early in the cooking process with the onions and garlic to allow their flavors to infuse the sauce fully.
• Chives: Mild and oniony, finely chopped chives make an excellent, delicate garnish that adds a subtle savory kick without overpowering the dish.

Cheese Variation Options

Beyond Parmesan, several cheeses can enhance the creaminess and flavor of your `beef bowtie pasta`, making it an even more indulgent `comforting meal`. Consider these options to personalize your `delicious pasta dish`:

• Asiago: A firm, nutty cheese that can be grated in alongside or in place of Parmesan for a sharper, more complex flavor.
• Mozzarella: For a stretchier, meltier texture, stir in some shredded mozzarella just before serving, allowing it to melt into the hot pasta and create delightful cheese pulls.
• Ricotta: For an extra creamy and lighter texture, dollops of ricotta can be gently folded into the dish, adding a fresh, milky counterpoint to the rich sauce.
• Fontina: Known for its exceptional melting qualities and mild, nutty flavor, Fontina cheese can add a luxurious, gooey texture to the sauce.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with these `simple ingredients` and combinations to find your perfect rendition of this `easy weeknight meal`!

Beef and Bowtie Pasta Nutrition

Understanding the nutritional aspects of your `beef bowtie pasta` dish can help you make informed dietary choices while still enjoying this `comforting meal`. This `delicious pasta dish`, featuring `ground beef recipe` elements and a `creamy Alfredo` sauce, provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. While exact values vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, we can offer general insights into what a typical serving might contain, reinforcing its role as a hearty `family dinner`.

Per Serving Details

A standard serving of `beef bowtie pasta` typically offers significant energy due to its combination of protein from the `ground beef`, carbohydrates from the pasta, and healthy fats from the olive oil and dairy. Here’s a generalized breakdown:

• Calories: Approximately 500-700 calories, depending on the fat content of the beef and the amount of cream/cheese used. This makes it a substantial and satisfying meal.
• Protein: A good source of protein, typically 25-35 grams per serving, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Carbohydrates: Primarily from the bowtie pasta, contributing around 40-60 grams, providing sustained energy.
• Fats: Includes both saturated and unsaturated fats. Around 25-40 grams, with choices like leaner beef or skim milk (if substituting for cream) affecting total fat content.
• Sodium: Can vary based on broth, canned tomatoes, and added salt. Using low-sodium broth can help manage this.
• Fiber: Contains a modest amount of fiber from the vegetables and pasta.
• Vitamins & Minerals: Provides iron, B vitamins from the beef, and calcium from the dairy.

It’s important to remember that these figures are estimates. To get precise nutritional information, you can use a recipe calculator with your specific ingredients. This `easy weeknight meal` can be a balanced part of a healthy diet, particularly when paired with a side salad to boost fiber and micronutrient intake. For more general information about nutrition, visit Nutrition on Wikipedia.

Store Leftover Pasta Safely

One of the many benefits of preparing a hearty `beef bowtie pasta` is the potential for delicious leftovers, providing another `easy weeknight meal` or a convenient lunch. Proper storage is crucial to maintain the `savory flavors` and creamy texture of your `delicious pasta dish` and, most importantly, to ensure food safety. Following simple guidelines will allow you to enjoy your `comforting meal` for days to come, minimizing waste and maximizing convenience.

Keeping It Fresh

To safely store your leftover `beef bowtie pasta`, follow these steps:

1. Cool Promptly: As soon as the `family dinner` is over and the pasta has cooled to room temperature (within two hours of cooking), transfer it to an airtight container. Do not leave it out at room temperature for extended periods, as this can encourage bacterial growth.
2. Use Airtight Containers: Opt for shallow, airtight containers to store the pasta. This helps to prevent air exposure, which can dry out the pasta and affect its flavor. Glass containers are excellent for preserving taste and preventing staining.
3. Refrigerate Immediately: Place the sealed containers in the refrigerator (at 40°F or 4°C or below). Properly stored `beef bowtie pasta` will typically last for 3-4 days in the fridge.
4. Reheating Tips: When reheating, add a splash of milk, cream, or beef broth to the pasta before warming it in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. This will help restore the `creamy Alfredo` sauce’s consistency and prevent the pasta from drying out. Stir frequently until heated through.
5. Freezing (Optional): If you wish to store leftovers for a longer period, `beef bowtie pasta` can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Ensure it’s completely cooled, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Note that the texture of the pasta and sauce might change slightly after freezing and thawing.

By following these storage tips, you can extend the enjoyment of your `ground beef recipe` and always have a delightful meal ready for later!

Enjoy Your Easy Pasta Recipe

You’ve successfully crafted a truly spectacular `beef bowtie pasta` dish that embodies convenience, flavor, and comfort. This `easy weeknight meal` proves that delicious home cooking doesn’t have to be complicated. With its `savory flavors`, tender `ground beef recipe`, and rich `creamy Alfredo` sauce, it’s destined to become a staple for your `family dinner` rotations. Each step, from `quick prep` to final garnish, contributes to a `delicious pasta dish` that truly satisfies.

Whether you’re serving it as a fulfilling `comforting meal` after a long day or sharing it with loved ones, the joy of creating and savoring this recipe is undeniable. Remember that cooking is an art form, and while this recipe provides a fantastic foundation, feel free to personalize it with your favorite herbs, cheeses, or even a touch of heat. Don’t forget to check out our other incredible main course recipes for more culinary inspiration.

We hope this guide empowers you to confidently create this delightful `beef bowtie pasta` again and again. For more recipe ideas and daily inspiration, follow us on Instagram @CarinaRecipes20. Happy cooking!