Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

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Every now and then, I crave a meal that’s equal parts comfort and indulgence—and this Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce hits the mark every time. It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy enough for a Friday night but easy enough for a busy Wednesday. The tender beef mingled with buttery bowtie pasta, all coated in a rich, garlicky Alfredo sauce… it’s simply irresistible.

I first made this on a whim when I had a half-box of bowtie pasta and some leftover ground beef, and it instantly became a weeknight staple. The creamy Alfredo brings a luxurious twist to a humble beef pasta dish, and it comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a comforting dinner for two, this dish always delivers.

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

• Rich & Creamy: The Alfredo sauce is silky smooth and clings beautifully to each piece of pasta.
• Hearty & Satisfying: Ground beef brings protein and flavor that makes this a true main course.
• Easy to Make: You only need one skillet and a pot—no complicated steps, just simple comfort food.
• Family-Friendly: Picky eaters? No problem. This creamy pasta is a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: You can play around with add-ins like spinach, mushrooms, or red pepper flakes for a personal twist.

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What Kind of Pasta Works Best for This Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce?

I love using bowtie pasta—also known as farfalle—for this dish because the little “wings” do a great job of catching the creamy Alfredo sauce in every bite. Plus, the shape just adds a fun, elegant touch to the plate. That said, you’re not locked into bowties. Penne, rotini, or even fettuccine can work well if that’s what you have in your pantry.

Bowtie pasta holds up well to the hearty beef and thick Alfredo, maintaining its texture without getting soggy. If you want a slightly lighter option, whole wheat or even chickpea pasta will still pair nicely and add a little more fiber to your meal.

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Options for Substitutions

• Beef: Ground turkey or Italian sausage are great alternatives if you’re looking to cut down on red meat or switch up the flavor profile. Want to go vegetarian? Use crumbled tofu or plant-based meat crumbles.
• Alfredo Sauce: Store-bought Alfredo works fine for convenience, but you can also make it from scratch with butter, cream, garlic, and Parmesan. For a lighter version, try using half-and-half or Greek yogurt in your homemade sauce.
• Pasta: Like mentioned, feel free to swap in penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Gluten-free pasta also works beautifully in this dish.
• Add-ins: Feel free to bulk it up with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, roasted red peppers, or even peas for a pop of color and extra nutrition.

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Ingredients for This Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

Each ingredient in this recipe has a role to play in making the dish rich, flavorful, and satisfying. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why it’s essential:

• Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle): This fun-shaped pasta isn’t just for looks—it holds sauce well and brings a nice bite to the dish.
• Ground Beef: The savory base of the recipe. It adds protein, flavor, and richness that balances the creamy Alfredo.
• Alfredo Sauce: The star of the show. Creamy, garlicky, and cheesy, this sauce ties everything together. You can go homemade or use a quality store-bought version for ease.
• Parmesan Cheese: Even if your Alfredo has cheese in it, adding a little extra Parmesan boosts that salty, nutty flavor and thickens the sauce slightly.
• Garlic: Adds depth and aroma that keeps the sauce from tasting too one-note. It brings a necessary sharpness to the richness.
• Butter: Used in the sauce if making it from scratch, or to give the beef extra flavor when cooking.
• Heavy Cream (if making your own Alfredo): For that luxurious, silky sauce texture.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning both the beef and the final dish—don’t skip or skimp on these.
• Fresh Parsley (Optional): A touch of freshness and color right before serving. It really brightens the plate visually and flavor-wise.

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Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta

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. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later.

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Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it up into crumbles with a wooden spoon. Season with salt and black pepper. Once browned, drain excess grease if necessary and set the beef aside on a plate.

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Step 3: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet (wipe it out if needed), melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Note: If you’re using store-bought Alfredo, simply warm it in the skillet and stir in a little extra garlic or cheese to make it your own.

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Step 4: Combine Pasta, Beef, and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta and ground beef back into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything gently to coat well. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

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Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, and if you like, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and a little extra Parmesan on top. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or a green salad, and enjoy that creamy, comforting goodness.

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How Long to Cook the Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

This dish comes together surprisingly fast, making it ideal for a quick dinner. Here’s the timing breakdown:

• Pasta Cooking Time: 10–12 minutes (depending on your pasta brand)
• Browning the Beef: 6–8 minutes
• Making Alfredo Sauce (if homemade): 5–7 minutes
• Final Assembly & Tossing: 3–5 minutes

Total Cook Time: Around 25–30 minutes from start to finish.
If you’re using store-bought Alfredo, you’ll save even more time.

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Tips for Perfect Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

• Salt the Pasta Water: It’s the only chance you get to flavor the pasta itself. Go generous here—it should taste like the sea.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: You want that lovely al dente texture so it doesn’t turn mushy once mixed with the sauce.
• Drain the Beef Well: Especially if your ground beef is fatty. Too much grease will throw off the balance of the creamy sauce.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Minced fresh garlic packs a punch and elevates even store-bought Alfredo sauce with rich aroma and flavor.
• Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly into the sauce.
• Warm the Alfredo Gently: High heat can make cream-based sauces split or turn grainy. Keep it low and slow.
• Thin the Sauce with Pasta Water: A tablespoon or two of that starchy water can help loosen the sauce while making it cling better to the pasta.
• Finish with a Fresh Element: A sprinkle of parsley or a squeeze of lemon at the end keeps the dish from feeling too heavy.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even simple dishes like this one can go sideways without a few watch-outs. Here’s what to avoid:

• Overcooking the Pasta: It keeps cooking a bit even after you drain it, especially once it hits the hot sauce. Stick with al dente.
• Using Lean Beef Only: A little fat adds flavor. If you go too lean, the meat can end up dry. Just be sure to drain excess grease for balance.
• Boiling the Alfredo Sauce: High heat will cause the sauce to break or become grainy. Keep it at a gentle simmer.
• Skipping the Garlic: Even with store-bought sauce, fresh garlic is a must for depth and aroma.
• Not Saving Pasta Water: That liquid gold helps emulsify and loosen the sauce without watering it down.
• Undersalting: Between the pasta, beef, and sauce, seasoning each layer lightly ensures a well-balanced dish overall.
• Letting It Sit Too Long Before Serving: Cream-based sauces thicken as they cool, so serve right after combining for best texture.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Give the beef room to brown. If it’s overcrowded, it’ll steam instead of sear, muting the flavor.

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What to Serve With Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce?

This creamy, rich pasta loves to be balanced with lighter sides or bold contrast. Here are some ideas:

Green Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette

A crisp, tangy salad helps cut through the richness and refreshes your palate between bites.

Garlic Bread or Toasted Baguette

Perfect for scooping up that leftover Alfredo sauce and adding a satisfying crunch.

Steamed or Roasted Broccoli

Broccoli adds color and a healthy, earthy contrast to the creamy pasta.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy, umami-packed mushrooms pair beautifully with beef and creamy sauces.

Roasted Garlic Asparagus

Bright and slightly sweet with a garlicky punch—perfect alongside the savory pasta.

Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil offer a cooling side that complements the pasta without overpowering it.

Cucumber and Dill Yogurt Salad

Cool, tangy, and light—an unexpected pairing that works wonderfully.

Glass of Red or White Wine

A dry red like Chianti or a buttery Chardonnay can elevate the entire meal with minimal effort.

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Storage Instructions

Got leftovers? This dish stores well and even makes for a comforting next-day lunch. Here’s how to keep it tasting fresh:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Freezer: You can freeze it, but keep in mind that creamy sauces tend to separate upon thawing. If freezing, let the pasta cool completely and freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly, stirring often.
• Best Reheat Method: Stove over low heat with a bit of added cream or milk. Stir continuously until warmed through. Microwave also works—just do it in short bursts, stirring between rounds.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)

Keep in mind these are general estimates and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.

• Calories: 620
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 710mg
• Cholesterol: 105mg

Tip: To lighten this up, try using leaner beef, a light Alfredo sauce, and adding veggies like spinach or zucchini to boost fiber and volume.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While bowtie pasta (farfalle) is my go-to for its shape and texture, penne, rotini, or even fettuccine work just as well. Use what you have on hand.

What kind of beef works best for this recipe?

I recommend 80/20 or 85/15 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and moisture. Too lean, and the beef might turn out dry. You can also use ground turkey or Italian sausage as alternatives.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Cook everything, let it cool, and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. For best results, store the sauce and pasta separately and combine just before reheating.

How do I prevent the Alfredo sauce from becoming too thick?

Add a splash of reserved pasta water or milk during the final toss. This keeps the sauce silky without making it watery.

Is it okay to use jarred Alfredo sauce?

Definitely. Jarred Alfredo is a great time-saver. I do recommend jazzing it up with some garlic, a bit of butter, and extra Parmesan for a homemade feel.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Of course! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, peas, or even zucchini work well here. They not only boost nutrition but also add color and texture.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Low and slow on the stove is ideal—add a bit of cream, milk, or broth and stir until warm. In the microwave, heat in short bursts, stirring between rounds.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Just use gluten-free pasta and make sure your Alfredo sauce is certified gluten-free. Everything else in the recipe should already be naturally gluten-free.

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Conclusion

Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce is one of those crave-worthy meals that checks all the boxes—comforting, creamy, filling, and fast. Whether you’re whipping it up on a weeknight or serving it to guests for a casual dinner party, it’s a guaranteed hit. With just a few pantry staples and some flexibility for swaps or add-ins, this recipe is a keeper you’ll come back to again and again. Don’t be surprised if it becomes part of your regular rotation.

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