Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta Delicious Meal Delight

January 12, 2026January 6, 2026 by Chef Miles

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 8 oz bowtie pasta

– 1 lb ground beef

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped

– 2 cups fresh spinach

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

– 1/2 cup heavy cream

– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh basil, for garnish

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this dish shine. Start with bowtie pasta; it holds sauce well. You’ll need one pound of ground beef for a hearty base. The garlic adds a great flavor, so grab four cloves and mince them finely.

The onion brings sweetness; use half a cup, chopped small. Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients; two cups should do. Cherry tomatoes brighten the dish; cut a cup of them in half.

For creaminess, use half a cup of heavy cream. One cup of grated Parmesan cheese gives that rich, cheesy taste. Olive oil is essential for cooking the beef, so don’t forget two tablespoons. A teaspoon of Italian seasoning adds depth, while salt and pepper will enhance all the flavors. Lastly, fresh basil will make your dish look and taste amazing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking Pasta

– Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil.

– Add 8 oz of bowtie pasta to the water. Cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.

– Drain the pasta, but save a small cup of pasta water for later.

Cooking the Beef

– Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

– Add 1 lb of ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon.

– Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until the beef is browned and cooked through.

Sautéing Vegetables

– Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1/2 cup of finely chopped onion to the beef.

– Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.

Adding Spinach and Tomatoes

– Stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach and 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes.

– Cook until the spinach wilts and tomatoes soften, about 2-3 minutes.

Creating the Sauce

– Lower the heat and pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream.

– Add 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning.

– Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. If too thick, add some reserved pasta water.

Combining Pasta with Sauce

– Add the drained bowtie pasta to the skillet.

– Toss the pasta in the sauce until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Pasta

To make the best Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta, cook your pasta al dente. This means it should be firm when bitten. Follow the package instructions for cooking time. Remember to reserve a cup of pasta water before you drain it. This starchy water helps to adjust the sauce later.

Enhancing Flavor

For extra flavor, adjust your seasonings. You can add more Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like heat. Fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, make a great garnish. They add color and flavor, making your dish look and taste amazing.

Presentation Tips

Serve your pasta in deep bowls for a nice look. The vibrant spinach and tomatoes pop against the creamy sauce. Top with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for elegance. This simple touch makes your meal feel special.

Variations

Protein Options

You can switch the ground beef if you want. Use ground turkey for a lighter dish. Turkey gives a nice flavor and is lower in fat. Also, try adding Italian sausage. Sausage adds a wonderful spice and richness. You can mix beef with sausage too. This gives you a tasty blend.

Vegetable Additions

Feel free to add more veggies to the pasta. Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms work great. Just chop them up and toss them in when you add the spinach. Seasonal veggies are fun to use too. In summer, try fresh corn or peas. In winter, roasted root veggies add depth.

Dairy Alternatives

If you want a lighter dish, use low-fat cream. It still tastes good without too many calories. For a vegan option, swap the cheese with nutritional yeast. This gives a cheesy taste without dairy. You can also use cashew cream for a rich, creamy texture.

Storage Info

Refrigeration

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. The dish may lose some creaminess over time.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the dish, use a freezer-safe container. Divide it into individual portions. This helps with easy reheating. The pasta can last up to two months in the freezer.

Reheating Techniques

To reheat, use the stovetop or microwave. On the stovetop, add a splash of water. Heat on low, stirring often. In the microwave, cover the dish and heat in short bursts. This keeps the flavor and texture nice.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead. To meal prep, follow these steps:

– Cook the pasta and beef as directed.

– Let them cool completely before storing.

– Place the pasta and sauce in separate airtight containers.

– Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

– Reheat gently on the stove or microwave. Add a splash of water if it’s too thick.

What can I serve with Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta?

This pasta dish pairs well with many sides. Here are some suggestions:

– Garlic bread for a crunchy side.

– A fresh garden salad for a crisp bite.

– Steamed broccoli or green beans for added veggies.

– Roasted vegetables for a hearty touch.

How do I adjust the recipe for more servings?

To serve more people, you can easily scale up the recipe. Here’s how:

– Double or triple the ingredients based on how many extra servings you need.

– For each pound of ground beef, add 2 cups of pasta.

– Increase cooking time slightly, but watch for doneness.

– Taste as you go to adjust seasonings correctly.

This recipe for Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta combines simple ingredients in a delicious way. You start by cooking the pasta, then brown the beef, and finally mix in fresh veggies and a creamy sauce. Don’t forget the tips for perfect pasta and creative options to add variety.

With this dish, you can enjoy rich flavors and customize it to your taste. Remember to save leftovers for later, as they can be refrigerated or frozen. So, gather your ingredients and make this tasty meal tonigh