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; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Smart Quick Meals Collection

I absolutely love preparing Bow Tie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce because it's a comforting dish that brings joy to any occasion. The combination of the delicate pasta shape and the rich, creamy sauce is irresistible. Every time I make it, I’m reminded of cozy family dinners and how this dish can turn a simple meal into a celebration. The best part is that it can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dining or a special treat.

Created by

Juliet Ashford

Last updated on 2026-02-24T05:56:48.323Z

When I first attempted Bow Tie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce, I was surprised at how quickly it came together. The creamy sauce is made with simple ingredients, and I discovered that using freshly grated Parmesan elevates the flavor significantly. My family didn't believe I had made it at home!

Over the years, I've perfected the technique by incorporating a touch of garlic and nutmeg into the sauce, which adds depth without overpowering the dish. This pasta has become a staple in our home, and I love serving it with a sprinkle of parsley for that pop of freshness.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy Alfredo sauce that coats every bow tie perfectly
Quick and easy to prepare, ready in just 25 minutes
Comfort food that the whole family will adore

The Art of Alfredo Sauce

The Alfredo sauce is the star component of this dish, and its success hinges on balancing the right ingredients. Using heavy cream creates a luscious texture that coats the pasta beautifully. When melting the butter and garlic, be careful not to let them brown too much—this can impart a bitter taste. Instead, aim for a golden hue that signals the garlic is fragrant without losing its delicate flavor.

Incorporating freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds depth to the sauce. Pre-grated cheeses often contain anti-caking agents, which can affect the creaminess of the sauce. I recommend grating the cheese just before use, ensuring it melts evenly and results in a smoother final dish. If you find yourself short on Parmesan, Romano cheese can be a suitable substitute for a slightly sharper flavor profile.

Pasta Perfectly Cooked

The key to achieving perfectly cooked bow tie pasta lies in the timing and technique. Start with a large pot of salted boiling water, as this helps to season the pasta during cooking. To achieve an al dente texture, check the pasta about 2 minutes before the package’s recommended cooking time. It should be tender but still have a slight bite, which is crucial for holding up against the rich Alfredo sauce.

Once cooked, always remember to reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy water can be a lifesaver for adjusting the texture of the Alfredo sauce later. If your sauce ends up too thick, a little splash of the reserved water can thin it to the perfect consistency while also helping the sauce adhere to the bow ties.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients for Bow Tie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce

12 oz bow tie pasta
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped and ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Bow Tie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the bow tie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.

Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir occasionally and let it simmer gently.

Combine and Serve

Once the cream mixture is warmed, add the grated Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.

Garnish

Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

Enjoy your delicious Bow Tie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce!

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding cooked chicken or steamed vegetables like broccoli or peas to the pasta before serving. You can also experiment with different types of cheese if you want to change up the flavor profile.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, you can store the Bow Tie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce's consistency, as it can thicken while chilled. Heat gently over low flame, stirring frequently to avoid separation of the sauce, until warmed through.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. However, the texture of the Alfredo sauce may change upon thawing. To freeze, allow the pasta to cool completely, then portion and freeze in airtight containers. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat with a bit of additional cream or milk for the best results.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Bow Tie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce is wonderfully versatile. For a pop of color and added nutrition, serve it with steamed vegetables such as broccoli or asparagus. You can also top it with grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can provide a nice kick if you enjoy a bit of heat.

For a lighter version, consider substituting half-and-half for the heavy cream. This will reduce the calorie count while still allowing for a creamy consistency, though you may need to adjust the amount of cheese to maintain the sauce's richness. Additionally, you can experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a unique flavor twist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute with any pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine or penne.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and pasta in advance, mix them together when ready to serve.

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian. Just ensure that the Parmesan cheese is made without animal rennet if you want it to be strictly vegetarian.

→ What can I serve with Bow Tie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce?

It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.