Creamy Beef Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce - 2025

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy and comforting: The garlic parmesan sauce is rich, smooth, and savory.
Protein-packed: Tender beef slices add a hearty, satisfying bite.
Easy to make: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, it’s beginner-friendly.
Visually stunning: Bowtie pasta looks elegant and holds sauce well, while the garnishes add color and freshness.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it fits right in.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American-Italian
Servings: 4
Calories: ~640 per serving

Creamy Beef Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce

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Ingredients

8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup beef broth
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional: red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions

1. Cook the Bowtie Pasta

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

2. Prepare the Beef

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef slices with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Sear the beef for 2–3 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.

Slowly pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, whisking to combine and remove any lumps. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.

4. Combine and Finish

Add the cooked pasta and seared beef back into the skillet. Toss everything together until well-coated in the creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Allow it to simmer for 1–2 minutes so the flavors can meld.

5. Garnish and Serve

Transfer to serving plates or bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an optional sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick. Serve hot and enjoy!

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Tips for Best Results

Use fresh parmesan: Freshly grated parmesan melts better and gives a richer flavor than pre-shredded options.
Don’t overcook the beef: Thin slices of steak cook quickly. Overcooking can make them tough.
Reserve pasta water: If your sauce is too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water can help loosen it up without diluting the flavor.
Cream substitute: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce won’t be as rich.

Nutritional Insight (Per Serving)

Calories: ~640
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fat: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: ~500mg

This dish offers a good balance of protein and carbs, perfect for a satisfying dinner. To reduce calories, consider using low-fat cream or leaner cuts of beef.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with:

Garlic bread
A simple green salad
A glass of white wine like Chardonnay or a sparkling beverage

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, penne, rotini, or fettuccine also work well, but bowtie pasta holds the sauce beautifully and adds a nice texture.
What kind of beef should I use?
Sirloin, flank steak, or ribeye work well. Look for tender cuts that can be sliced thinly.
Can I use pre-cooked beef or leftover steak?
Absolutely. Just slice it thinly and add it in during the final steps so it doesn’t overcook.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
How can I make this dish spicy?
Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or while seasoning the beef for an extra kick.
Can I freeze creamy pasta dishes?
Freezing is possible, but cream sauces may separate upon thawing. Stir well while reheating to restore consistency.
Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
Yes, use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and opt for nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan.
What can I substitute for beef?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms are great alternatives for different dietary preferences.
How do I prevent the sauce from clumping?
Whisk constantly when adding the flour and liquid. A smooth roux is key to a creamy, lump-free sauce.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Try spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes to add color and nutrients.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or water until warm.
Do I need to marinate the beef?
It’s not necessary, but marinating for 30 minutes in olive oil, garlic, and herbs can enhance flavor.

Conclusion

Creamy Beef Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a dish that combines elegance and comfort in every bite. With its creamy, cheesy sauce and tender slices of seasoned beef, it’s a recipe that everyone will love—perfect for family dinners, casual meals, or impressive gatherings.

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