🧄 Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta
Ingredients:
For the Pasta:
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12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
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Salt for boiling water
For the Beef:
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1 lb ground beef (or thinly sliced sirloin/steak tips)
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1 tbsp olive oil (if using steak)
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
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Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes
For the Sauce:
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3 tbsp butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tbsp all-purpose flour
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2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
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1/2 cup beef broth
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3/4 – 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Beef:
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If using ground beef: Brown in a large skillet over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Drain excess fat if needed.
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If using steak: Heat olive oil in a skillet over high heat. Sear the thinly sliced steak until browned. Season and remove from pan.
3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
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In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
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Add garlic and sauté for about 30–60 seconds until fragrant (don’t let it brown).
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Whisk in flour to form a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
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Slowly whisk in heavy cream and beef broth, stirring constantly until smooth.
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Bring to a simmer, and let it thicken for 2–3 minutes.
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Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
4. Combine:
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Add the cooked beef and drained pasta to the sauce. Stir until everything is well-coated and heated through.
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If sauce is too thick, add a splash more beef broth or reserved pasta water.
5. Garnish & Serve:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley, more Parmesan, and cracked black pepper. Serve hot!
✅ Tips:
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Use fresh Parmesan for best melt and flavor.
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For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese.
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Add veggies like spinach or mushrooms to stretch the meal.