Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of creamy pasta, especially when it’s loaded with tender chunks of savory beef and tossed in a rich Alfredo sauce. The delicate bowtie pasta perfectly cradles the creamy sauce, while the beef adds a hearty, satisfying bite to every forkful. It’s a harmony of flavors—garlic-kissed creaminess, subtle Parmesan tang, and the juicy depth of well-seasoned beef—that makes you want to linger over every bite.

This dish isn’t just a dinner; it’s a cozy night in a bowl. Whether you’re looking to impress guests with a restaurant-worthy plate or simply need a quick, soul-warming weeknight meal, this recipe delivers. The beauty lies in its versatility: you can dress it up with fresh herbs and a side salad for a sophisticated dinner or serve it casually in big bowls for everyone to dig in.

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

• Perfect Balance of Flavors – Creamy, cheesy sauce paired with savory, juicy beef.
• Quick but Elegant – Ready in under 30 minutes, yet feels like a special occasion meal.
• Kid-Approved Comfort Food – Mild flavors and fun-shaped pasta appeal to all ages.
• Customizable – Swap the beef for chicken, shrimp, or veggies without losing the magic.
• Crowd Pleaser – Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or even date night.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To bring your Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce to life, you’ll need a few kitchen essentials that will make cooking smoother and more efficient:

• Large Pot for Boiling Pasta – The extra space prevents pasta from sticking and ensures even cooking.
• Deep Sauté Pan or Skillet – Perfect for browning the beef and later combining it with the sauce and pasta.
• Colander – Drains pasta quickly without losing any precious noodles down the sink.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula – Gentle on your cookware and great for stirring without scratching surfaces.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons – Accurate measurements are key for consistent flavor in the Alfredo sauce.
• Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board – For chopping parsley or any optional veggie add-ins.

Having these tools ready will help you transition seamlessly from step to step without scrambling for equipment mid-recipe.

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Preparation Tips

• Season the Beef Well – Salt and pepper generously before cooking to build flavor from the start.
• Cook Pasta Until Al Dente – Slight firmness ensures it won’t get mushy when tossed in the hot sauce.
• Reserve Some Pasta Water – A splash can help loosen the sauce and make it cling better to the pasta.
• Warm the Alfredo Sauce Gently – Avoid boiling to prevent separation and maintain creaminess.
• Work in Stages – Brown the beef first, then set it aside while making the sauce to avoid overcooking.

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Ingredients for Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• 1 lb beef sirloin or stew meat, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp salt, plus more for pasta water
• ½ tsp black pepper (freshly ground preferred)
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional, for depth of flavor)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional add-ins: sautéed mushrooms, steamed broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.

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Step 1 – Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add bowtie pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

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Step 2 – Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef cubes, season with salt and pepper, and sear until browned on all sides. Remove beef from the skillet and set aside, keeping any juices in the pan for flavor.

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Step 3 – Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream, stirring gently. Once warmed through, whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Add nutmeg if desired.

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Step 4 – Combine Pasta, Beef, and Sauce

Return the beef to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss gently to coat. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water until it reaches the desired consistency.

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Step 5 – Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh parsley over the pasta. Serve hot, ideally with crusty bread or a light salad on the side.

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Notes

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest, most flavorful Alfredo sauce—pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting properly.
• Let the beef rest briefly after browning; this keeps it tender and juicy when added back to the sauce.
• For a lighter option, you can replace half of the heavy cream with milk, though the sauce will be less rich.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Pasta – Remember it will continue to cook slightly in the sauce, so stop at al dente.
• Boiling the Cream Sauce – High heat can cause separation and graininess; keep it to a gentle simmer.
• Skipping the Reserved Pasta Water – This starchy liquid helps the sauce cling beautifully to the pasta.
• Crowding the Pan When Browning Beef – Overcrowding steams the meat instead of searing it, leading to less flavor.
• Using Cold Ingredients for the Sauce – Bring cream and butter to room temperature for a silkier result.

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

8 Recommendations

1. Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up any leftover Alfredo sauce.
2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and croutons provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Steamed Broccoli – Adds color, nutrients, and a slightly bitter balance to the rich sauce.
4. Roasted Asparagus – Lightly charred tips pair beautifully with Parmesan flavors.
5. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a bright side dish.
6. Sauteed Mushrooms – Earthy depth complements the beef.
7. Grilled Zucchini – Tender, smoky slices lighten up the plate.
8. Chilled White Wine – A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the richness.

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Storage Instructions

Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. Avoid high heat to prevent the sauce from breaking.

For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Note that the sauce may need extra cream or butter after thawing to regain its silky texture.

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Estimated Nutrition (per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: ~520 kcal
• Protein: 26 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fat: 26 g
• Saturated Fat: 14 g
• Cholesterol: 95 mg
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 560 mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ground beef instead of cubed beef?

Yes, ground beef works fine—just brown it thoroughly and drain excess fat before adding it to the sauce.

2. What’s the best pasta substitute for bowties?

Fettuccine, penne, or rotini all work well since they hold sauce nicely.

3. Can I make this Alfredo sauce without cream?

You can use whole milk with a bit of cream cheese for thickness, though it won’t be as rich.

4. How do I keep the sauce from clumping?

Add the Parmesan gradually to warm (not boiling) cream, stirring constantly.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Parmesan is certified gluten-free.

6. Can I add vegetables to the pasta?

Absolutely—broccoli, peas, spinach, or mushrooms are great add-ins.

7. How can I make it spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the Alfredo sauce.

8. Can I prepare it ahead of time?

You can cook the beef and make the sauce ahead, but cook the pasta fresh for the best texture.

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Conclusion

Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy comfort and hearty, satisfying protein. With its quick cooking time and flexible ingredient options, it’s as suited for a busy weeknight as it is for a special dinner with friends or family. Every bite delivers richness from the sauce and depth from the beef, tied together with perfectly cooked pasta. Serve it fresh, garnish generously, and watch it disappear from the table.

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