Bow Tie Pasta With Alfredo Sauce

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Alfredo Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz bow tie pasta; Salt for boiling water; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Classic Homestyle Dishes

I absolutely love making Bow Tie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce on busy weeknights. It’s one of those comforting dishes that comes together in no time, yet feels indulgent enough to satisfy those cravings for something creamy. The combination of the unique bow tie shape and rich alfredo sauce creates a delightful eating experience. Plus, I always keep the ingredients on hand, making it a perfect option for spontaneous dinner plans. Honestly, once you discover how easy this dish is to prepare, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:25:37.449Z

When I first made Bow Tie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce, I was amazed at how quickly it came together without compromising on flavor. The secret lies in using good-quality Parmesan cheese and a splash of cream which creates a luxurious sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. My favorite part is adjusting the garlic level according to my mood, which adds a fragrant twist to every bite.

This dish often sparks joy in my home, especially when accompanied by a crisp green salad. To make it even more exciting, I sometimes throw in sautéed vegetables or grilled chicken for added nutrition and variety. Trust me, once you try this method, it will become a staple in your weekly meal rotation!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy, rich sauce that's irresistibly cheesy
Bow tie pasta holds the sauce perfectly in every bite
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weekdays

Timing is Key

To achieve the perfect al dente texture for your bow tie pasta, follow the package instructions closely, typically about 10-12 minutes of boiling time. After draining, remember to reserve about half a cup of pasta water. This starchy liquid becomes your secret weapon for adjusting the sauce's consistency, ensuring it clings beautifully to the pasta rather than creating a soupy mess.

When preparing the Alfredo sauce, maintaining a medium heat is crucial. If your butter starts to brown, reduce the heat slightly. After adding the heavy cream, allow it to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes. This step isn't just about thickening the sauce; it's also when the flavors meld and develop a creamy, rich profile that elevates the dish.

Ingredient Insights

Using fresh garlic is a game changer in this recipe. It not only infuses the sauce with a robust flavor but also adds an aromatic quality as it sautés in butter. If you're in a pinch, garlic powder can be a substitute, though I recommend fresh for the best flavor impact.

Parmesan cheese offers both flavor and creaminess, but keep in mind that not all Parmesan is created equal. For a deeper flavor, look for aged Parmesan or Parmigiano-Reggiano. If you're seeking a dairy-free version, nut-based cheeses or a blend of cashews and nutritional yeast can create a surprisingly good substitute.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz bow tie pasta
Salt for boiling water

For the Alfredo Sauce

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

Directions

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water.

Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens. Add the cooked bow tie pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water for desired consistency.

Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the Alfredo sauce with additional spices or ingredients like crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover Bow Tie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce can be refrigerated for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to help revive the sauce's creamy texture. Avoid microwave reheating if possible, as it can lead to uneven heating and a change in texture.

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can prepare the pasta and sauce separately. This allows you to combine them right before serving. Just remember to add a touch more cream or pasta water when reheating to keep the sauce smooth and rich.

Serving Suggestions

This Alfredo pasta can stand alone as a satisfying meal, but you can elevate it further by adding protein. Grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp pairs incredibly well with the creamy sauce, making it even more indulgent. You can also mix in steamed vegetables like broccoli or peas for a pop of color and extra nutrients.

For a little extra flair, consider sprinkling some red pepper flakes on top before serving. The heat complements the creamy sauce beautifully and adds a vibrant touch to the dish. Also, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the flavors and provide a lovely balance to the richness of the Alfredo.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

While you can use milk, it may result in a thinner sauce. For a richer texture, heavy cream is recommended.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian. Ensure you use vegetarian Parmesan cheese to keep it meat-free.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or shrimp makes a great addition for extra protein.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream.