Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting meal, Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce is the perfect dish! This creamy, cheesy, and hearty meal brings together tender beef, perfectly cooked bowtie pasta (farfalle), and a rich homemade Alfredo sauce. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a dinner party, or just craving a satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to impress.
In this detailed guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make the best beef and bowtie pasta with Alfredo sauce—from ingredient selection to step-by-step cooking instructions and expert tips.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Rich and creamy Alfredo sauce coats every piece of pasta and beef.
✔ Easy to make with simple, everyday ingredients.
✔ Kid-friendly – a family favorite!
✔ Customizable – add mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
✔ Perfect for meal prep – reheats beautifully.
Ingredients for Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce
For the Pasta & Beef:
- 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 lb beef sirloin or ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup sautéed mushrooms
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper for spice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions.
- Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later.
Step 2: Cooking the Beef
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- If using sirloin, slice it into thin strips. If using ground beef, break it up with a spatula.
- Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook for 4–5 minutes (until browned and fully cooked).
- Transfer beef to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Making the Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds (until fragrant).
- Pour in heavy cream and whole milk, stirring constantly.
- Add Parmesan cheese slowly, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
- Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Combining Everything
- Return the cooked beef to the skillet.
- Add the drained pasta, tossing to coat with the Alfredo sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water (1 tbsp at a time) to reach the desired consistency.
- Stir in any optional add-ins like mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes.
Step 5: Serving the Dish
- Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately with garlic bread or a side salad.
For the best results, we recommend making your own Alfredo sauce from scratch instead of using store-bought versions.
Best Side Dishes for Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce
Pairing the right side dishes makes this meal even more enjoyable. Here are some ideas:
1. Garlic Bread
Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up extra Alfredo sauce.
2. Caesar Salad
A crisp, refreshing salad balances the richness of the dish.
3. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts make a great healthy side.
4. Italian Bruschetta
A light tomato bruschetta adds a fresh contrast to the creamy pasta.
Tips for Cooking the Perfect Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce
Perfecting the Beef
✔ Use sirloin for tender, juicy beef or ground beef for a budget-friendly option.
✔ Thinly slice the beef for even cooking.
✔ Let the beef rest for 2–3 minutes after cooking for juicier bites.
Making the Best Alfredo Sauce
✔ Use fresh Parmesan cheese – pre-grated cheese won’t melt smoothly.
✔ Don’t overheat – Alfredo sauce should be simmered, not boiled.
✔ Adjust thickness – add pasta water to thin or extra cheese to thicken.
Pasta Tips
✔ Salt the pasta water generously for better flavor.
✔ Don’t overcook – al dente pasta holds sauce better.
✔ Toss pasta immediately with the sauce to absorb flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
Want to switch things up? Try these variations:
✔ Chicken Alfredo Pasta: Swap beef for grilled chicken.
✔ Seafood Alfredo Pasta: Add shrimp or scallops for a seafood twist.
✔ Spicy Alfredo: Add crushed red pepper or Cajun seasoning.
✔ Low-Carb Version: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta.
Wine Pairing for Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce
Pairing wine with Alfredo pasta enhances the dining experience. Here are some great options:
- White Wine:
✔ Chardonnay – Complements the creamy sauce.
✔ Sauvignon Blanc – Adds a refreshing contrast. - Red Wine:
✔ Pinot Noir – Light enough to pair with Alfredo sauce.
✔ Merlot – Smooth and fruity, balances the beef.
FAQs About Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce
1. What is the best cut of beef for this recipe?
Sirloin, ribeye, or even tenderloin work well. Ground beef is also a great option for convenience.
2. Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Yes! But homemade Alfredo sauce tastes much better and is easy to make.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy.
4. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, but Alfredo sauce may separate when frozen. If freezing, reheat gently and stir well.
5. How can I make this dish healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta, swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt, and add extra vegetables.
6. Can I make Alfredo sauce without heavy cream?
Yes! You can substitute with whole milk and a little butter or use cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
Conclusion
Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce is a creamy, comforting meal that combines tender beef, perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, and a rich homemade Alfredo sauce. Whether you’re making this dish for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors! 🍝😋
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