Beef And Bowtie Pasta With Alfredo Sauce Recipe

There's nothing quite like a bowl of creamy, comforting pasta to end a long day. This Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce is a rich and hearty dish that brings together tender beef, perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, and a luscious, garlicky Alfredo sauce. It's a meal that's both satisfying and surprisingly easy to put together.

I first made this recipe when I needed a quick dinner using ingredients I already had in my kitchen. What started as a last-minute meal quickly became a family favorite, requested on busy weeknights and special occasions alike.

Why You'll Love This Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to pasta dish. This Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce is packed with flavor and comes together in no time.

First off, it's incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few simple steps, you'll have a restaurant-quality meal ready in under 30 minutes.

It's also budget-friendly. Using ground beef or thinly sliced steak makes this dish both delicious and economical. No need for expensive cuts—just simple ingredients that deliver big taste.

Plus, it's a family favorite. Even picky eaters will love the creamy, cheesy sauce and fun bowtie pasta. It's a dish that appeals to kids and adults alike.

And if you're looking for versatility, this recipe is a winner. You can swap the beef for chicken, shrimp, or even a vegetarian option, making it perfect for different dietary needs.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays an important role in creating a balanced, creamy pasta dish.

Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle) is the star of the show. Its fun shape not only looks great on the plate but also holds onto the Alfredo sauce beautifully. If you don't have bowtie pasta, penne or fettuccine can work as well.

For the beef, you have options. Ground beef is the easiest and most budget-friendly choice, but you can also use thinly sliced sirloin or flank steak for a more elevated flavor. If using steak, cook it quickly over high heat for the best texture.

The Alfredo sauce is what makes this dish truly indulgent. A mix of butter, heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich, velvety sauce that coats every piece of pasta. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

A touch of garlic and onion enhances the flavor of the beef and sauce. Freshly minced garlic and finely chopped onion provide depth without overpowering the dish.

To bring it all together, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley adds the perfect finishing touch. Parmesan provides a sharp, nutty flavor, while parsley brightens up the dish with a pop of color and freshness.

How To Make This Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

Creating this delicious pasta dish is easier than you might think. Let’s go through the simple steps.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of olive oil and cook the beef until browned. If using ground beef, break it up with a spoon as it cooks. If using steak, sear it on both sides and slice it thinly before adding it back to the pan.

Remove the cooked beef from the pan and set it aside. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic and chopped onion until fragrant and softened, about 2 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning.

Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for a few minutes before adding grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy consistency.

Return the beef to the skillet, along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated in the Alfredo sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Once everything is combined, serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, this pasta stores well for later enjoyment. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For freezing, place the pasta in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back its creamy texture. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may cause the sauce to separate.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some ways you can customize it:

Swap the beef for chicken or shrimp. Both proteins work beautifully with Alfredo sauce and bring their own unique flavors to the dish.

Make it vegetarian by omitting the beef and adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers for a hearty and flavorful alternative.

If you're looking for a healthier option, try using a light cream or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream. It won’t be quite as rich, but it still tastes delicious.

For a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the Alfredo sauce. It gives the dish a subtle kick without overpowering the creamy flavor.

Want a gluten-free version? Simply swap the bowtie pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta. The sauce and beef remain naturally gluten-free.

However you decide to make it, this Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce is sure to become a staple in your home. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and making it your own!

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