Creamy, savory, and deeply comforting, this Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce is everything a satisfying dinner should be. Imagine tender bowtie pasta tossed with juicy bites of seasoned beef and drenched in a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce. The final touch of cracked black pepper and a sprinkle of fresh parsley elevates this simple yet indulgent dish into something truly memorable.

Whether you’re craving a cozy family meal or planning a quick weeknight dinner that feels a bit more special, this recipe delivers with minimal effort. It’s a one-pan wonder that combines convenience with irresistible flavor—a combination that’s hard to beat!

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

Comfort food at its finest: Creamy Alfredo meets hearty beef and pasta for an ultra-satisfying bite.
Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes—ideal for busy weeknights.
Kid-approved: A guaranteed hit with picky eaters thanks to its familiar flavors.
Versatile: Great as a standalone meal, but easy to dress up with veggies or spices.
Leftover-friendly: Tastes just as amazing the next day!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment (and Why They Matter)

To ensure the best results when preparing Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce, having the right tools can make all the difference in texture, timing, and flavor.

Large Pot: A wide, deep pot is perfect for boiling your bowtie pasta evenly without sticking or clumping.
Deep Skillet or Sauté Pan: Ideal for browning the beef and preparing the Alfredo sauce all in one. A heavy-bottomed skillet helps maintain consistent heat.
Colander: Essential for draining pasta quickly without losing any pieces.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For stirring the sauce gently and making sure nothing sticks or burns.
Whisk: Perfect for getting a smooth, lump-free Alfredo sauce.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To get the seasoning and cream proportions just right.

Preparation Tips

Salt Your Pasta Water Generously: This is your only chance to season the pasta itself, so be bold—think ocean salty!
Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slight firmness helps it hold up better when mixed with sauce and beef.
Use Lean Ground Beef or Beef Chunks: Less grease means a cleaner, more luxurious sauce.
Drain Excess Fat: After browning the beef, remove excess oil to prevent the sauce from becoming too greasy.
Warm the Alfredo Sauce Slowly: Avoid high heat when combining the sauce with the beef; low and slow ensures a creamy, non-curdled finish.
Don’t Rinse the Pasta: Rinsing removes the starch that helps the sauce cling to every piece.

Ingredients for Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

To create this hearty, creamy comfort dish, gather the following ingredients. These pantry staples come together to make a restaurant-style dinner in your own kitchen.

For the Pasta & Beef:

12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
1 lb ground beef (or beef chunks, if preferred)
1 tablespoon olive oil (if using lean beef or chunks)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

For the Alfredo Sauce:

2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
1½ cups grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated melts best)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: pinch of nutmeg (for depth and warmth)

Tip: You can use store-bought Alfredo sauce in a pinch, but homemade takes this dish to another level.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain using a colander and set aside. Do not rinse the pasta—this helps the sauce stick better later.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a deep skillet or sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil (only if using lean beef or beef chunks). Add the ground beef and cook over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir occasionally to break up the meat. Once done, drain excess grease and set the beef aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to low and melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, then stir gently to combine. Slowly whisk in the Parmesan cheese, continuing to stir until the sauce is smooth and thick. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (optional).

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Beef, and Sauce

Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Mix well to coat the beef evenly. Add the drained bowtie pasta into the pan and toss everything together until fully combined and warmed through. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes so the flavors can meld.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top. Add extra cracked black pepper if desired. Serve hot in bowls and enjoy the creamy, savory deliciousness!

Notes

Homemade vs. Store-Bought Sauce: While homemade Alfredo gives a richer, fresher taste, using a quality store-bought version is a great shortcut when time is tight.
Cheese Choice Matters: Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded. It also gives the sauce a silkier texture.
Add Veggies: Want to sneak in some greens? Spinach, peas, or sautéed mushrooms pair wonderfully and boost nutrition.
Double Up: This dish can be doubled easily for larger families or meal prepping. Just use a larger pot and skillet to handle the volume.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the Pasta: If the pasta is too soft, it may break apart or become mushy when mixed with the sauce.
Using High Heat for Alfredo Sauce: High heat can cause the sauce to separate or curdle. Always cook the sauce over low to medium heat.
Skipping the Seasoning: Be sure to season the beef and sauce properly. Bland meat or sauce can make the whole dish fall flat.
Using Low-Quality Cheese: Pre-packaged grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect the texture of the sauce.
Adding Cold Dairy: To avoid curdling, let the milk and cream come to room temperature before adding to the skillet.
Forgetting to Drain Grease: Excess fat from the beef can make the final dish overly oily and heavy.

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

A rich and creamy dish like this pairs beautifully with a variety of light, fresh, or contrasting sides. Here are some perfect companions to round out your meal:

8 Recommendations

1. Garlic Bread

Toasty, buttery, and crisp—ideal for soaking up that delicious Alfredo sauce.

2. Caesar Salad

The tangy dressing and crisp romaine offer a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.

3. Steamed Broccoli

A simple, healthy side that balances the richness of the beef and sauce.

4. Roasted Asparagus

Earthy, slightly crispy, and easy to make in the oven while your pasta cooks.

5. Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil with a drizzle of balsamic bring brightness to the meal.

6. Sautéed Spinach with Garlic

A nutrient-packed option that doesn’t overpower the main dish.

7. Bruschetta

Crisp bread topped with tomatoes, olive oil, and herbs offers a fresh start to your dinner.

8. Sparkling Water or Light White Wine

For beverages, go with something that can cut through the creaminess—like a chilled Pinot Grigio or even lemon-infused sparkling water.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration:
Allow any leftover Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce to cool to room temperature before storing. Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing:
Although possible, freezing is not highly recommended due to potential changes in the texture of the Alfredo sauce—it can separate when reheated. If you do freeze it, use a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month. Reheat slowly with a splash of milk to bring back creaminess.

Reheating Tips:

Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. Add a bit of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
Stovetop: Reheat on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of milk or water to refresh the sauce’s texture.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Based on 6 Servings)

Please note this is an approximation and can vary based on specific brands and ingredients used.

Calories: ~590
Protein: 25g
Fat: 34g
Carbohydrates: 46g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 115mg
Sodium: 530mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g

This dish is rich and filling, so smaller portions go a long way. For a lighter version, try swapping in half-and-half or using leaner beef and whole wheat pasta.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different pasta shape instead of bowtie?

Absolutely! Penne, rotini, or fettuccine all work well. Just choose a pasta shape that holds the sauce nicely.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Store it in the fridge and reheat gently with a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy.

3. What kind of beef should I use?

Ground beef is quick and easy, but you can also use small beef cubes or steak bites if you’d like a heartier texture.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not by default. To make it gluten-free, use certified gluten-free pasta and check that your Alfredo sauce ingredients are gluten-free too.

5. Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Definitely! Spinach, mushrooms, broccoli, or peas make excellent add-ins without overpowering the flavors.

6. What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese for a lighter version, though it may alter the richness.

7. How do I prevent the Alfredo sauce from separating?

Cook it on low heat, don’t rush, and stir constantly. Avoid adding cold dairy directly—let your cream and milk come to room temperature first.

8. Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?

You can, but it may not melt as smoothly due to anti-caking agents. Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for the best creamy texture.

Conclusion

Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce is a dish that brings warmth, comfort, and restaurant-worthy flavor right to your kitchen. Its creamy, savory richness paired with tender pasta and seasoned beef makes it a go-to recipe for any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving a cozy bowl of pasta, this one is sure to satisfy. Feel free to make it your own by tossing in veggies or dialing up the spice. However you serve it—this is comfort food at its finest.