Name: Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta; 1 lb beef steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp butter (divided); 1 small onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup beef broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

If you’re like me and crave a dinner that feels indulgent yet comforting after a long day, this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta might just become your new weeknight favorite. The moment I first tried the combination of tender beef with creamy, garlicky sauce tangled through bowtie pasta, I knew I had something special. It’s rich but not overwhelming, satisfying without needing hours in the kitchen. The flavors are familiar yet feel elevated enough to serve guests.

I love how the bowtie pasta holds onto the sauce in just the right way—each bite is creamy, beefy, and full of warmth. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or an impromptu gathering with friends, this dish delivers every time. It’s hearty, elegant in its simplicity, and absolutely delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

It’s a one-pan wonder (almost): You only need a skillet and a pot of water—minimal cleanup!
Rich and creamy sauce without needing a roux or heavy ingredients.
Tender seared beef adds bold, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the mild pasta.
Customizable and flexible with ingredients you likely already have.
Ready in about 30 minutes, making it a solid choice for busy nights.

What Kind of Beef Should I Use for Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta?

For the best results, I like using sirloin steak or ribeye—something with a bit of marbling that stays juicy when seared. Cut into bite-sized pieces, it browns beautifully and adds that deep, meaty flavor to the creamy sauce. You could also use beef tips, flank steak, or even leftover roast beef in a pinch. Just be mindful not to overcook the meat—tender is the goal.

Options for Substitutions

If you’re short on certain ingredients or looking to adjust the dish to suit dietary needs, this recipe is flexible:

Pasta: Swap bowtie (farfalle) for penne, fusilli, or even egg noodles. Just choose something that can catch the sauce.
Beef: Ground beef can be used for a more budget-friendly option. Cook and drain it before adding the sauce.
Cream: Half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese can be used to lighten it up a bit.
Garlic and Onion: If you’re out of fresh, garlic and onion powder will still give you good flavor.
Fresh herbs: No parsley? Use basil or thyme, or skip herbs altogether and add more pepper for extra depth.

Ingredients for This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle)
The unique shape of bowtie pasta holds onto the creamy sauce, giving every bite texture and flavor.
Beef Steak (Sirloin or Ribeye)
Tender, flavorful cuts that sear beautifully and stay juicy in the creamy sauce.
Heavy Cream
This is the base of the sauce, creating a rich, smooth coating for the pasta and beef.
Garlic
Fresh garlic gives the sauce depth and a gentle kick of savoriness.
Onion
Adds a subtle sweetness and umami that balances the richness of the cream.
Beef Broth
It amplifies the meatiness of the dish and helps thin the sauce just enough.
Parmesan Cheese
Adds saltiness and body to the sauce while helping it cling to the pasta.
Olive Oil & Butter
Used to sear the beef and sauté the aromatics—flavor-building essentials.
Salt & Black Pepper
Simple seasonings that let the ingredients shine.
Fresh Parsley
A fresh finish that adds color and cuts through the richness just enough.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta until al dente, according to package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and a bit of butter. Add the beef pieces in a single layer (do this in batches if needed). Sear until browned on all sides, about 3–4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add a touch more butter if needed, then sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Pour in the beef broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for a minute, then add the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan until melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked beef to the skillet, along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together gently. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

How Long to Cook the Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

From start to finish, this recipe takes about 30 minutes. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Pasta: 10 minutes to cook until al dente.
Beef: 4–6 minutes to sear in batches.
Sauce & combining: Another 10–12 minutes total.

It’s quick enough for a busy night, but still feels like a well-thought-out meal.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Sear the beef in batches: Crowding the pan will steam the meat instead of browning it—golden crust equals flavor.
Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts better and avoids a gritty texture in the sauce.
Don’t overcook the cream: Bring it to a gentle simmer, not a boil, to prevent curdling.
Save that pasta water: It’s liquid gold for adjusting the sauce consistency.
Taste and season at the end: The cheese and broth add salt, so finish the seasoning last to avoid overdoing it.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Using lean beef: Lean cuts can dry out quickly. Choose marbled cuts for tenderness.
Overcooking the pasta: Mushy pasta won’t hold up in the sauce. Aim for al dente.
Skipping the deglazing step: Those browned bits from searing the beef are packed with flavor—don’t leave them behind.
Adding cheese too early: Stir it in after the cream simmers to avoid clumping.
Forgetting to reserve pasta water: It’s the key to getting the sauce silky and smooth.

What to Serve With Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta?

Garlic Bread

Crispy and buttery, perfect for mopping up that creamy sauce.

Simple Green Salad

A light vinaigrette-tossed salad helps balance the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

Adds texture and a healthy green to the plate.

Caprese Skewers

Fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil on a stick make a refreshing starter.

A Glass of Red Wine

A smooth Merlot or Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with the creamy beef.

Sauteed Mushrooms

Earthy and umami-rich, they complement the beef beautifully.

Cucumber Yogurt Salad

Cool and tangy, it adds contrast and brightness to the meal.

Cheese Plate

A mix of soft and sharp cheeses makes a classy side for gatherings.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers of this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta store well, making it great for meal prep or next-day lunches. Let the pasta cool completely before storing.

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Not ideal for freezing due to the cream-based sauce, which can separate. If you must freeze, reheat gently and add a splash of cream to revive the texture.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop or microwave with a bit of added broth, milk, or cream to loosen the sauce.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

This is an estimate based on a 4-serving portion:

Calories: ~620 kcal
Protein: 29g
Fat: 34g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Cholesterol: 110mg
Sodium: 580mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground beef instead of steak?

Yes! Ground beef is a budget-friendly substitute. Just brown it well and drain excess fat before adding the sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the components (cook pasta, sear beef, make sauce) ahead and combine them just before serving to keep the texture fresh.

Is this dish spicy?

Not at all. If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle on top.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner. A bit of cream cheese or a roux can help thicken it up if needed.

What kind of cheese works best besides Parmesan?

Try Pecorino Romano for a saltier kick, or a touch of Gruyère for something nutty and smooth.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and double-check that your beef broth and Parmesan are gluten-free certified.

How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container.

Can I add vegetables to this pasta?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes would blend right into the creamy flavors.

Conclusion

Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is one of those meals that feels both cozy and a little bit fancy. It brings together hearty beef, a luscious sauce, and pasta that holds everything just right. Whether you’re feeding a family or treating yourself, this dish delivers big on comfort with minimal effort. Keep it in your rotation—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.