Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Beef Bowtie Pasta Skillet

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I don’t think I’ve ever been more excited to share a weeknight dinner recipe. This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Beef Bowtie Pasta Skillet is exactly the kind of hearty, cozy meal I crave after a long day. It came together one busy Tuesday when I had ground beef, half a box of bowtie pasta, and a craving for something creamy and cheesy. What started as an experiment has quickly turned into a regular in my meal rotation.

The magic of this dish lies in its balance. The bowtie pasta holds onto the creamy sauce in the best way, while the browned ground beef adds that much-needed protein punch. And then there’s the garlic—don’t skimp on it—infusing every bite with savory warmth. The Parmesan ties everything together, bringing a nutty, salty richness that’s just irresistible.

What I love most is that it all comes together in one skillet. Fewer dishes and maximum flavor? That’s my kind of cooking. Whether you’re feeding your family or just yourself with a few leftovers to spare, this recipe feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Beef Bowtie Pasta Skillet

This recipe hits all the right notes: rich, garlicky, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something homemade but don’t have the energy for a complicated dish. You only need one skillet, the ingredients are simple pantry staples, and it reheats beautifully. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, a crowd, or just indulging yourself, this pasta skillet is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Ground Beef: I use lean ground beef for its flavor and quick cook time. It’s the backbone of the dish, adding savory richness.

Bowtie Pasta: Also known as farfalle, its unique shape holds the creamy cheese sauce perfectly in every bite.

Garlic: Freshly minced garlic delivers bold flavor and deepens the overall taste profile.

Heavy Cream: This creates the luscious, velvety texture of the sauce that clings to the pasta.

Parmesan Cheese: Adds nutty, salty flavor and acts as a thickener for the creamy base.

Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully and gives the dish its stretchy, gooey comfort.

Butter: Enhances the garlic and helps bring everything together in the skillet.

Italian Seasoning: Adds balance and herbal notes to the richness of the cream and cheese.

Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning every component from the beef to the sauce.

Fresh Parsley (optional): A pop of green to finish the dish with color and a hint of freshness.

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Beef Bowtie Pasta Skillet

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Cook until it’s no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Lower the heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet, followed by the minced garlic. Stir constantly until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Lower the heat and stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Mix until melted and smooth.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the cooked ground beef. Toss everything together so the pasta is coated in the creamy, cheesy sauce. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot. Enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness!

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own. If you’re out of bowtie pasta, penne, rotini, or even elbow macaroni make excellent alternatives. They all hold the sauce beautifully and bring different textures.

For a leaner option, ground turkey or ground chicken can replace the beef. Want to go meatless? Try sautéed mushrooms or plant-based crumbles instead.

If you’re lactose-sensitive, swap out the heavy cream with a plant-based version and use dairy-free cheeses. It won’t be quite as indulgent, but it still delivers on the comfort factor.

Parmesan too sharp for your taste? Try Asiago or even a touch of sharp white cheddar. And feel free to amp up the veggies: spinach, bell peppers, or even peas stir in nicely and add freshness.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This skillet meal is hearty enough to stand on its own, but a simple side can elevate it further. I like to pair it with a crisp Caesar salad or some steamed green beans for contrast.

For a little crunch, garlic bread or a warm baguette on the side is a perfect match—ideal for mopping up any leftover sauce. If you’re serving for guests, a glass of dry red wine like Cabernet or Merlot complements the richness beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, I recommend using the stovetop over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and keep it creamy.

Microwave reheating also works—just stir halfway through and cover the dish to trap moisture. Avoid freezing if possible, as the cream-based sauce may separate when thawed.

FAQs

Can I make Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Beef Bowtie Pasta Skillet ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the components separately and combine them right before serving, or make the entire dish and store it. Just reheat gently with a bit of cream.

Is Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Beef Bowtie Pasta Skillet kid-friendly?

Yes! The cheesy flavor and familiar pasta shape make it a hit with kids. If your little ones are garlic-sensitive, you can reduce the garlic slightly.

How do I keep the Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Beef Bowtie Pasta Skillet from drying out?

When storing, seal it well and add a splash of milk or cream when reheating. Stir frequently to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese in Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Beef Bowtie Pasta Skillet?

You can, but I recommend shredding your own for the smoothest melt and best texture. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect creaminess.

What can I serve with Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Beef Bowtie Pasta Skillet?

Try a fresh side salad, roasted vegetables, or warm crusty bread. For something sweet afterward, a light dessert like these Blueberry Cheesecake Heaven Rolls makes a dreamy finish. You might also enjoy our Cheesy Baked Tennessee Onions or Easy Creamy Polenta with Shrimp for another savory hit.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If this Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Beef Bowtie Pasta Skillet has you craving more creamy and satisfying meals, be sure to check out our Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta. It delivers the same garlicky depth and cheesy sauce but with a fun twist on protein. You might also fall in love with our Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta Recipe for a spicy change of pace or the cozy comfort of Amish Sunday Savior Casserole that warms every bite.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

If this Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Beef Bowtie Pasta Skillet becomes a favorite in your kitchen, don’t keep it to yourself! Save it to your recipe board on Pinterest so you always have it handy for busy nights. And if you enjoyed it, spread the love by sharing it with friends or family—post a photo, pin it, or send the link their way. Great food is meant to be shared, and this skillet deserves the spotlight!

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