Bow Tie Pasta With Alfredo Sauce

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Alfredo Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 12 oz bow tie pasta; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Classic Homestyle Dishes

I absolutely adore Bow Tie Pasta With Alfredo Sauce because it's such a comforting dish that never fails to impress! The rich, creamy texture of the Alfredo sauce clings perfectly to the pasta, enhancing every bite. Whether it's a cozy dinner for two or a festive gathering with friends, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. Plus, it comes together in just under 30 minutes, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. Let's dive into this creamy delight!

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:20:48.104Z

When I first made Bow Tie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce, I wasn't sure how rich it would turn out. To my surprise, the creamy sauce, made from butter, cream, and parmesan, married perfectly with the bow tie pasta, creating a harmonious dish that delighted everyone around the table. I realized that using freshly grated parmesan made a noticeable difference in flavor.

As I paired it with some sautéed garlic and herbs, I knew I had struck gold! A sprinkle of black pepper and a bit of nutmeg elevated the dish even further. Trust me; give it a try, and you'll find it's a recipe to cherish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Silky smooth Alfredo sauce that coats the pasta perfectly
Bow tie pasta adds a fun twist to a classic dish
Quick and easy for weeknight dinners or special occasions

The Perfect Pasta Cook

Cooking pasta might seem straightforward, but getting it just right is key to this dish's overall texture. When boiling the bow tie pasta, make sure the water is at a rolling boil before adding the pasta to prevent it from becoming sticky. Also, remember to stir it occasionally. Aim for an al dente texture; it should be firm to the bite, as it will continue cooking slightly when combined with the sauce.

For optimal results, taste test for doneness about a minute before the package's recommended time. Draining the pasta thoroughly is vital—any excess water can dilute the richness of the Alfredo sauce, affecting the final dish's texture. If possible, reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining; it can be a helpful addition if you find the sauce too thick once combined.

Building the Alfredo Sauce

The key to a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce lies in the timing and temperature when combining your ingredients. Using medium heat, melt the butter gently to avoid browning it, which can introduce an unwanted nutty flavor. Once the butter is melted, adding the minced garlic gives the sauce a layer of aromatic depth. Cook the garlic just until fragrant—about 1 minute—ensuring it doesn’t burn for the best flavor profile.

When you add the heavy cream, ensure it doesn’t boil vigorously. A gentle simmer is sufficient to allow the flavors to meld without causing the cream to separate. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese; this method allows for a smooth emulsification, avoiding clumps. If you notice any lumps, keep the heat low and whisk continuously until you achieve a glossy sauce.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to whip up this delicious pasta!

Ingredients

12 oz bow tie pasta
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

These ingredients will come together for a wonderfully creamy meal!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Bow Tie Pasta With Alfredo Sauce!

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. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low.

Mix in the Cheese

Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked bow tie pasta to the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If needed, adjust the consistency with a bit of pasta water.

Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.

Enjoy your creamy, comforting pasta dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or grilled chicken to the pasta before serving. Also, using freshly grated Parmesan will enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the bow tie pasta and Alfredo sauce separately in airtight containers. The pasta can last up to three days in the refrigerator, while the sauce maintains freshness for about two days. Avoid freezing Alfredo sauce, as the dairy can separate upon thawing, altering its texture.

To reheat, place the pasta in a pan with a splash of milk or reserved pasta water on low heat. This method revives its creamy consistency while gently warming it through. For the sauce, reheat over low heat, stirring continuously to reincorporate the ingredients. If it appears too thick, adding a little more milk will help achieve the desired texture.

Variations to Try

While this recipe showcases a classic Alfredo sauce, you can easily incorporate additional flavors or ingredients to personalize it. For a richer flavor, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms. Spinach or peas can also add a pop of color and nutritional boost, making your dish visually appealing and satisfying.

Herbs can elevate the dish further; try incorporating fresh basil or thyme towards the end of cooking for a fragrant finish. For those looking to lighten the dish, substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream, still yielding a deliciously creamy sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and then heat it up when you're ready to serve. Just add a splash of cream to reconstitute it.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half for a lighter option, but the sauce will not be as rich.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Broccoli, peas, or spinach make great additions. Just steam them before mixing them into the sauce.