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Creamy Parmesan garlic beef bowtie pasta in large skillet with melted cheese sauce and fresh parsley

Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta

A rich and creamy one-pot pasta featuring ground beef, garlic, and Parmesan cheese in a silky sauce that's ready in 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef 85/15 recommended
  • 3 tsp olive oil
  • 5 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 8 oz bowtie pasta
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3/4 cup half and half or whole milk
  • 1/2 tsp salt adjust to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • Large deep skillet or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cheese grater

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it browns. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the browned beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until onion is translucent and garlic is fragrant.
  3. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices and develop flavors.
  4. Add butter and allow it to melt completely, then pour in beef broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
  5. While broth reduces, cook bowtie pasta in a separate pot according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  6. Lower heat to medium-low. Stir in half and half and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until sauce becomes creamy and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
  7. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  8. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated with sauce. Let rest for 2 minutes off heat to thicken, then garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for smoothest sauce. Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth to restore creaminess. Can substitute ground turkey for beef or add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.