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Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Beef

A quick and comforting weeknight dinner featuring tender seared beef and bowtie pasta tossed in a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce, ready in just 15 minutes.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces bowtie pasta (farfalle)
  • 1 pound sirloin or flank steak sliced thin against the grain
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 6-8 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated fresh Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup reserved starchy pasta water
  • 1 pinch red pepper flakes
  • fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
  • salt and black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • 12-inch skillet
  • Large stockpot
  • colander
  • whisk

Method
 

  1. Fill a large pot with water, add a generous amount of salt, and bring to a rolling boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set the pasta aside.
  2. While the water heats, slice the beef against the grain into thin strips and season generously with salt and pepper.
  3. Heat a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat with the tablespoon of oil. Sear the beef in a single layer, working in batches if needed, for 1 to 2 minutes per side until browned. Remove the beef and set aside, leaving the fond in the pan.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  5. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the reserved pasta water to help emulsify the sauce.
  6. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  7. Add the cooked pasta and seared beef back into the skillet. Toss gently to combine, adding more pasta water if the sauce is too thick. Cook for 1 minute to let the flavors meld.
  8. Remove from heat. Stir in half of the fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper. Serve immediately topped with remaining parsley and extra Parmesan.

Notes

Slice beef thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness. Do not overcrowd the pan when searing beef to ensure a good crust. Use reserved starchy pasta water to help emulsify the sauce. Leftovers keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or water. For a lighter option, swap heavy cream for more pasta water and Parmesan.