Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

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Creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor—Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce is a comforting pasta dish that combines tender ground beef, al dente bowtie pasta (farfalle), and a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce. It’s a delightful fusion of savory and creamy textures that feels both indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something cozy, this dish hits the mark with minimal prep and maximum taste.

The farfalle pasta does a fantastic job of holding onto the creamy Alfredo sauce in all its nooks and folds. Paired with seasoned ground beef and garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, every bite is a balance of richness and warmth. It’s an ideal weeknight meal but also special enough to serve at gatherings.

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Ingredients for this Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

• 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning for extra flavor

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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 and set it aside. Drizzle lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking if desired.

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Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once browned, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.

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Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet (wipe it clean if necessary), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stir well, and let it simmer for 3–4 minutes. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

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Step 4: Combine Pasta, Beef, and Sauce

Add the cooked bowtie pasta and browned beef to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Gently toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Heat for another 2–3 minutes, just until everything is warmed through.

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Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and a dash of red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning if you like an extra flavor kick. Pair with garlic bread or a green salad for a complete meal.

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Storage Instructions

To store Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce, let the dish cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.

• Refrigerator: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Freezer: While the beef and pasta freeze well, Alfredo sauce may separate upon thawing. If freezing, portion it into freezer-safe containers and reheat gently while stirring in extra cream or cheese to re-emulsify the sauce. Use within 2 months for best quality.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 580
• Protein: 24g
• Fat: 34g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 410mg

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes! Penne, rotini, or fettuccine all work well with Alfredo sauce and beef.

2. Can I substitute the beef with another protein?

Definitely. Try ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for a different flavor.

3. Is store-bought Alfredo sauce okay?

Yes, though homemade yields a fresher, creamier taste. If using store-bought, choose a high-quality version.

4. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Sure! Replace the beef with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a plant-based meat alternative.

5. How do I prevent the sauce from clumping?

Gradually add cheese into warm (not boiling) cream, and stir constantly for a smooth texture.

6. Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it up to 2 days ahead. Reheat gently and add a splash of cream to restore the consistency.

7. What can I serve on the side?

A crisp Caesar salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair nicely with this dish.

8. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner. Whole milk works best if substituting. Consider thickening with a bit of flour or extra cheese.

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