Picture yourself relaxing by the pool, a gentle breeze rustling the palm trees, while you dig into a hearty bowl of Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce. This dish brings together tender ground beef, perfectly cooked bowtie pasta (also known as farfalle), and a creamy, rich Alfredo sauce—making it a satisfying meal that feels both indulgent and comforting. It’s the kind of dinner that impresses guests or makes any weeknight dinner feel just a little more special.

The flavors are simple but memorable: savory beef melds with the creamy Parmesan-laced sauce, all clinging to those cute bowtie noodles. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or serving up something delicious for friends, this pasta dish is always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s quick to put together, with just a few pantry staples and a little bit of love.

Ingredients for the Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

For the pasta and beef:

12 ounces (about 340g) bowtie (farfalle) pasta
1 pound (450g) ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Alfredo sauce:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste

To serve:

Chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional)
Extra Parmesan cheese, for garnish

How To Make the Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In a separate saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly. Reduce the heat to low and add the grated Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and beef mixture to the pan with the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If needed, add a bit more pasta water to loosen the sauce so it clings beautifully to each bowtie.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Divide the pasta among bowls. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately while everything is hot, creamy, and inviting.

Serving and Storing Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

This pasta dish is best enjoyed fresh and hot, right after it’s tossed together. The creamy Alfredo sauce, savory beef, and bowtie pasta all come together beautifully for a comforting meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Serve it with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete feast. If you’re planning to make it ahead or have leftovers, this dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to help loosen the sauce before warming gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While bowtie pasta holds the sauce nicely and looks great, you can use penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand.

Is it possible to use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef if you prefer a lighter option. The flavors will change slightly, but the result is still delicious.

Can I make this Alfredo sauce lighter?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version of the sauce, but the texture will be less rich. Adding a bit of cream cheese can help thicken it if needed.

How do I prevent the Alfredo sauce from separating?

Keep the heat low when making the Alfredo sauce, and add the Parmesan cheese slowly while stirring. Avoid boiling the sauce once the cheese is added to maintain a smooth, creamy consistency.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Creamy sauces like Alfredo tend to separate after freezing, so it’s not recommended for the best texture. However, if you don’t mind a slight change in consistency, you can freeze portions in airtight containers for up to one month.

Conclusion

Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce is a simple yet elegant comfort meal that brings together tender beef, creamy Parmesan sauce, and fun pasta shapes in one bowl. It’s quick to prepare, adaptable to different tastes, and sure to become a favorite for cozy nights or casual gatherings. Enjoy every creamy, savory bite!