Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Beef Bowtie Pasta Skillet

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A skillet full of Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Beef Bowtie Pasta is the kind of comforting dish that makes you close your eyes on the first bite. Tender beef pieces nestle among al dente bowtie pasta, wrapped in a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce and crowned with bubbling melted cheese. It’s hearty, cozy, and perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re craving something truly satisfying.

Whether you’re cooking for the family or need a dinner party hit, this dish brings the best of indulgence and ease together. It all comes together in one pan, keeping cleanup to a minimum while maximizing flavor in every layer. The richness of the cheese pairs beautifully with the depth of the garlic beef, making this a must-try for comfort food lovers.

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What Kind of Pasta Works Best for This Skillet?

While bowtie pasta (also called farfalle) is the star here for both looks and texture, you can substitute with penne, rigatoni, or rotini. The key is to use a shape that holds sauce well and offers some bite. Bowtie pasta adds a whimsical touch and provides surface area for the sauce to cling to, enhancing each bite.

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Ingredients for the Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Beef Bowtie Pasta Skillet

• Beef Strips or Ground Beef: This is the protein foundation, offering a savory, meaty depth that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
• Bowtie Pasta: The chosen pasta shape catches the sauce in its ridges and creases, delivering more flavor per bite.
• Garlic: Essential for building the base flavor. Use fresh minced garlic for the best aroma and taste.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds nutty, salty umami to the sauce and enhances the creamy richness.
• Mozzarella Cheese: For that stretchy, melty cheese pull that makes this dish irresistible.
• Heavy Cream: The backbone of the creamy sauce, binding cheese and garlic into a luscious coating.
• Butter: Helps sauté the garlic and beef, and adds depth to the cream sauce.
• Salt & Pepper: For seasoning and balancing the richness of the dish.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): A final sprinkle of green that freshens up the flavors and adds a pop of color.

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How To Make the Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Beef Bowtie Pasta Skillet

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil and sear the beef strips or ground beef until browned on all sides. Season with salt and pepper as it cooks. Once cooked through, remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add a bit of butter. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to let it burn.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Base

Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to slightly thicken. Add in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir continuously until it melts smoothly into the cream.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente. Drain and reserve a bit of pasta water to thin the sauce later if needed.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and beef back into the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the garlic Parmesan sauce. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 6: Top and Melt

Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the skillet and cover with a lid. Let it sit on low heat until the cheese melts and becomes gooey. Finish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

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How to Serve and Store Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Beef Bowtie Pasta Skillet

This pasta skillet is best served straight from the stove while the cheese is still bubbly and the sauce is creamy. Scoop generous portions into shallow bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and cracked black pepper for a restaurant-style touch.

To store leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce back to its silky consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly and avoids the anti-caking agents found in bagged versions.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can cook the beef and prepare the sauce in advance. Combine with freshly cooked pasta just before serving for best texture.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese can work, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.

Can I freeze leftovers?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 1 month. The texture may change slightly upon thawing.

What can I add for more veggies?

Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or steamed broccoli for extra color and nutrients.

How do I prevent the sauce from clumping?

Stir constantly when adding the cheese to hot cream and avoid overheating once the cheese is in.

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Want More Beef Pasta Ideas?

You might also like the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta, where the flavors lean more traditional and savory. Or try Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce for a creamy twist with added richness.

For garlic lovers, the One Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta brings a fiery punch. The Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is another creamy contender that pairs beautifully with bold red wine.

If you want something baked and bubbling, the Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti might become a new favorite comfort food.

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You can save this to your comfort dinner boards for future cravings. Just hit the Pin button.

When you make it, come back and tell me how it went. Did you tweak the cheeses? Add in veggies? Drop your version in the comments. I always love hearing how these recipes evolve in your kitchen.

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