What a delight! My hubby asks for this almost every week!

Creamy Parmesan Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta is a comforting dish that brings together the heartiness of Midwestern cooking with a touch of Italian flair. This recipe is a nod to the days when my grandmother would whip up a hearty meal with simple ingredients from the farm. The creamy sauce, infused with garlic and Parmesan, wraps around the bowtie pasta like a warm hug, while the ground beef adds a satisfying richness. It's a dish that speaks of family gatherings around the kitchen table, where stories were shared and laughter echoed through the room. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this pasta dish is sure to become a family favorite.

This pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, dressed lightly with a vinaigrette to balance the creaminess of the sauce. A side of crusty garlic bread is perfect for sopping up every last bit of the delicious sauce. For a touch of color and nutrition, consider serving it with steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts. And of course, a glass of your favorite red wine would complement the flavors beautifully.

Servings: 4

8 oz bowtie pasta
1 lb ground beef
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.

Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Adjust to taste.

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce.

Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. If you prefer a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also incorporate vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition. For a different protein, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. And for a gluten-free option, use your favorite gluten-free pasta.