introduction
This Classic Alfredo Sauce with Tender Bowtie Pasta is a simple, creamy meal you can make fast. The sauce is rich and smooth and the bowtie pasta holds the sauce well. If you like easy weeknight dinners, you may also enjoy a baked Caesar chicken with creamy Parmesan sauce as another simple option: baked Caesar chicken with creamy Parmesan sauce.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe when you want a quick, comforting dinner. It uses few ingredients, cooks fast, and tastes rich. You can add chicken, shrimp, or vegetables to make it fill more. It is a good recipe for busy nights or for a cozy meal.
how to make Classic Alfredo Sauce with Tender Bowtie Pasta
Cook the pasta first so it is ready when the sauce is done. Make the sauce in one skillet to keep things simple. Stir in the cheese slowly so the sauce stays smooth. For a different serve, try it with a baked chicken burrito side or add the burrito style filling to make it heartier: baked chicken burritos with cheesy green chili sauce.
Ingredients :
12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta, 3 tbsp butter, 3 cloves garlic, minced, 1 1/2 cups heavy cream, 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, Salt & black pepper, to taste, Optional: pinch of nutmeg or Italian seasoning, Optional Add-Ins: Grilled chicken, shrimp, broccoli, or peas
Directions :
Step 1: Cook the Bowties – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook bowtie pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
Step 2: Build the Alfredo Sauce – In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and gently simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Step 3: Make It Creamy – Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper (and nutmeg if using). Thin with a splash of pasta water if needed.
Step 4: Toss & Serve – Add bowtie pasta to the sauce and toss until perfectly coated. Serve hot with extra Parmesan on top.
how to serve Classic Alfredo Sauce with Tender Bowtie Pasta
Serve this dish hot. Add extra grated Parmesan and a grind of black pepper. Top with grilled chicken or shrimp for protein. Add steamed broccoli or peas for color and texture. A side salad and crusty bread work well with this meal.
how to store Classic Alfredo Sauce with Tender Bowtie Pasta
Cool the pasta to room temperature before storing. Put it in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. You can also freeze, but texture may change; use within 1 month.
tips to make Classic Alfredo Sauce with Tender Bowtie Pasta
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor.
- Do not boil the cream; simmer gently to avoid splitting.
- Save a bit of pasta water to loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.
- Add cheese off the heat to keep the sauce smooth.
- Taste and season at the end so salt level is right.
variation (if any)
- Chicken Alfredo: Add sliced grilled chicken on top.
- Shrimp Alfredo: Sear shrimp and mix into the pasta.
- Veggie Alfredo: Stir in steamed broccoli, peas, or roasted mushrooms.
- Light version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, but the sauce will be thinner.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different pasta?
A: Yes. Fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti all work. Bowtie holds the sauce well.
Q: Can I make the sauce ahead?
A: You can make the sauce and store it in the fridge for 1–2 days. Reheat gently and add a splash of cream or pasta water.
Q: How do I stop the sauce from getting grainy?
A: Use low heat, add the cheese slowly, and avoid boiling the cream. Fresh Parmesan helps.
Q: Can I use pre-grated cheese?
A: You can, but pre-grated cheese often has additives and may not melt as smoothly. Freshly grated is best.
Q: Is there a vegetarian option?
A: Yes. Skip meat and add vegetables like broccoli, peas, or roasted peppers.
Conclusion
This Classic Alfredo Sauce with Tender Bowtie Pasta is quick, creamy, and flexible. For another creamy pasta meal with chicken and broccoli, see this Quick & Easy Fettuccine Chicken Broccoli Alfredo.
Classic Alfredo Sauce with Tender Bowtie Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook bowtie pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and gently simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper (and nutmeg if using). Thin with a splash of pasta water if needed.
- Add bowtie pasta to the sauce and toss until perfectly coated.
- Serve hot with extra Parmesan on top.