Name: Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American-Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta; 1 lb ground beef (85-90% lean); 1 tbsp olive oil (or 1 tbsp butter); 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups Alfredo sauce (homemade or jarred); 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; 1/2 tsp kosher salt, plus more for pasta water; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1/2 cup reserved pasta cooking water, as needed

Comfort food doesn’t get much better than a steaming bowl of tender bowtie pasta tossed in a creamy Alfredo sauce and paired with savory, seasoned beef. This dish is rich, satisfying, and perfect for both busy weeknights and cozy family dinners. It combines the elegance of Italian-inspired flavors with the heartiness that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

The silky Alfredo clings to each bowtie, while the beef adds depth and protein to transform it from a simple pasta into a complete, flavorful meal. Whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying it as a quick dinner idea, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between comfort and indulgence.

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

This recipe is all about convenience and taste. With minimal ingredients, you can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it one of those go-to easy dinner ideas. It’s creamy without being too heavy, versatile enough to add vegetables or extra seasoning, and kid-approved for picky eaters. Plus, the presentation of bowtie pasta makes the dish feel just a little more special.

What Kind of Alfredo Sauce Should I Use?

You can make your own homemade Alfredo sauce with butter, cream, and Parmesan for a rich, authentic flavor, or use a store-bought jar to save time without sacrificing too much taste. If you want a lighter option, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or even swap in a cauliflower Alfredo for a healthier twist. The beauty of this recipe is how easily it adapts to your kitchen and your preferences.

Ingredients for the Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

To make this dish creamy, hearty, and full of flavor, each ingredient plays an important role:

Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle) – The unique shape holds the Alfredo sauce beautifully, making every bite satisfying.
Ground Beef – Brings savory richness and protein, turning this pasta into a filling meal.
Alfredo Sauce – Provides the creamy, cheesy base that makes the dish irresistible.
Garlic – Adds depth and aromatic flavor to balance the richness of the sauce.
Onion – Sautéed onion enhances the beef and complements the creamy sauce.
Olive Oil or Butter – Helps sauté the aromatics and adds richness.
Parmesan Cheese – Sharp, nutty flavor that finishes the dish perfectly.
Parsley (optional) – Freshens the presentation and taste with a pop of color.

How To Make the Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving a splash of pasta water.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Stir in the Alfredo Sauce

Pour the Alfredo sauce into the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir gently, allowing the flavors to combine. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 5: Toss with Pasta

Add the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet, tossing until every piece is coated in creamy Alfredo and beef.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with Parmesan and parsley before serving warm.

Serving and Storing Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

This pasta is hearty enough to serve as the main course, feeding about 4 to 6 people generously. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a well-rounded dinner that feels both comforting and elegant.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to its silky texture. Freezing is possible, though Alfredo sauce may separate a little after thawing—stirring it well usually fixes this.

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

1. Garlic Bread

Crispy, buttery garlic bread is the ultimate sidekick to soak up every drop of Alfredo sauce.

2. Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and tangy dressing balances the richness of the pasta.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Try roasted broccoli, carrots, or asparagus for a healthy, colorful side dish.

4. Caprese Salad

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

5. Sauteed Spinach

Lightly cooked spinach with garlic brings an earthy touch that pairs beautifully with creamy pasta.

6. Bruschetta

Tomato and basil bruschetta provides a fresh, zesty starter before digging into the pasta.

7. Antipasto Platter

Cured meats, olives, and cheese make a great appetizer spread for an Italian-inspired dinner night.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If this Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce hit the spot, you’ll probably enjoy these other delicious pasta creations from my kitchen:

Creamy Beef and Shells for a one-pan family favorite.
Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta if you want a quick, comforting skillet meal.
Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for a similar twist with even richer flavors.
Garlic Butter Meatballs with Parmesan Penne if you’re craving tender meatballs with creamy pasta.
Beef Pasta in a Creamy Garlic Sauce when you’re in the mood for bold, garlicky flavors.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it whenever you’re craving creamy comfort food.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra veggies or keep it classic? Did you sprinkle more Parmesan on top? I love hearing how others make these recipes their own.

Explore beautifully curated comfort food and easy dinner recipes on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next family favorite!

Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

Author: Nora
Total Time: 30
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Craving a creamy, satisfying pasta dinner that’s ready in about 30 minutes? This Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce combines tender farfalle with savory browned beef and a velvety Alfredo that clings to every curve. It’s an easy recipe perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, or make-ahead meal prep. Serve it as a quick dinner, add veggies for extra color, or keep it classic with Parmesan and parsley.

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Add bowties and cook until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup cooking water; drain pasta.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.

3. Add onion to the skillet; cook 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Pour in Alfredo sauce; stir to combine. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). If the sauce seems thick, splash in a little reserved pasta water.

5. Add drained bowties to the skillet. Toss until every piece is coated and glossy, loosening with more pasta water as needed.

6. Off heat, stir in Parmesan. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.