Bow Tie Pasta With Alfredo Sauce

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Alfredo Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz bow tie pasta; 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling pasta); 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Classic Homestyle Dishes

I find myself reaching for this Bow Tie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce whenever I'm craving something comforting and indulgent. The creamy sauce envelops each bow tie, creating an irresistible dish that's perfect for any occasion. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this pasta comes together quickly, allowing me to enjoy its rich flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. I love that I can customize this dish with my favorite veggies or proteins for added variety and nutrition.

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:16:50.835Z

I have experimented with various pasta recipes over the years, but Bow Tie Pasta with Alfredo sauce holds a special place in my heart. Using butter and heavy cream creates a velvety texture that's hard to resist. One tip I learned is to reserve a bit of pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency as it thickens during cooking.

Perfecting the balance of flavors took some time, but I've learned the importance of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It elevates the dish, adding depth that pre-grated options simply can't match. My guests are often surprised at how easy it is to make such a gourmet meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy Alfredo sauce melds beautifully with tender bow tie pasta
Quick and easy recipe perfect for busy weeknights
Versatile base to add your favorite proteins or vegetables

The Magic of Alfredo Sauce

Alfredo sauce is a divine combination of butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese, creating a rich and indulgent dressing for pasta. The key here is to use high-quality Parmesan, as the flavor of the cheese directly impacts the sauce’s taste. When selecting Parmesan, opt for freshly grated over pre-packaged, as it melts more smoothly and integrates beautifully into the sauce without clumping.

An important tip while preparing the sauce is to maintain a gentle simmer; boiling can cause the cream to separate, leading to a grainy texture. I've found that stirring continuously during this phase encourages the butter to emulsify with the cream, creating a glossy sauce that clings to each piece of pasta perfectly. Aim for a slight bubble to ensure you're on the right track.

Tips for Perfect Bow Tie Pasta

Cooking bow tie pasta, or farfalle, requires attention to timing, as it can easily go from perfect to mushy. Always refer to the package instructions; typically, it takes around 10-12 minutes to reach al dente. To enhance flavor, add a tablespoon of salt to the boiling water. This is crucial as it helps to season the pasta from the inside out, ensuring each bow tie is flavorful.

When draining the pasta, be sure to reserve that cup of pasta water. This starchy liquid acts as a magic ingredient when combining with the Alfredo sauce, helping to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick. I usually add a few tablespoons at a time until the consistency is just right, allowing for a creamy and cohesive mouthfeel.

Creative Variations and Add-Ins

One of the best things about this Bow Tie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce is its versatility. You can easily turn this dish into a complete meal by adding cooked proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms. For a vegetarian twist, consider incorporating steamed broccoli or spinach for a pop of color and nutrition. I often add them during the last minute of pasta cooking for a seamless integration.

If you're looking to lighten up the dish or cater to dietary restrictions, try substituting the heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative such as cashew cream. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and richness of the sauce, so adjust your seasoning accordingly to maintain that delicious depth.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz bow tie pasta
1 tablespoon salt (for boiling pasta)

For the Alfredo Sauce

1/2 cup unsalted butter
2 cups heavy cream
1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Once the cream is slightly thickened, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until completely melted. Add the pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.

Enjoy Your Dish!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add cooked chicken, shrimp, or steamed broccoli for an extra touch. Fresh garlic and freshly grated cheese really make a difference in flavor.

Storing and Reheating

To store leftover Bow Tie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days, but be mindful that the sauce may thicken as it sits. To reheat, the best method is to gently warm it in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of reserved pasta water or additional cream to loosen the sauce and maintain its luscious texture.

If you're planning to make this dish ahead of time, consider preparing the pasta and sauce separately. Cook the bow tie pasta al dente, then cool and toss with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. You can prepare the Alfredo sauce a day in advance. When ready to serve, just reheat both components, combine, and enjoy!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common misstep with Alfredo sauce is ending up with a grainy texture, often a result of overheating or using pre-grated cheese. If this happens, try whisking in a bit more cream over low heat, which can help smooth it out. Additionally, cooking the garlic too long can cause bitterness, so keep an eye on it and remove it from the heat as soon as it becomes fragrant.

If your sauce seems too thick, don't hesitate to add more reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time, stirring to incorporate. On the other hand, if the sauce is too thin, allow it to simmer gently for a few extra minutes to thicken before adding the pasta. These adjustments can help ensure you create a perfectly creamy Alfredo every time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Using milk will result in a thinner sauce. For a creamier texture, heavy cream is ideal.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Yes, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly. Just ensure all your ingredients are suitable.

→ Can I make the sauce in advance?

It's best to make the sauce fresh, but you can prepare it a few hours beforehand and reheat gently.