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: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz bow tie pasta; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 tsp nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Home-Cooked Favorites

I absolutely love making Bow Tie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce on busy weeknights. It’s a comforting dish that comes together quickly, allowing me to savor rich flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy Alfredo sauce envelops each bow tie pasta, creating a satisfying meal that pleases both my family and friends. With just a few simple ingredients and 30 minutes of my time, I can bring restaurant-quality pasta to my dining table. You’ll find that this dish is not only delicious but also a great canvas for customization!

Created by

Ottilie James

Last updated on 2026-02-23T22:25:36.429Z

I had a craving for something creamy and comforting, so I decided to whip up some Bow Tie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce. The trick to a great Alfredo is the perfect balance of butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese. As it cooks, the sauce thickens and takes on a silky texture that clings beautifully to the pasta. You can enjoy it as is or toss in some veggies or protein for added nutrition!

While I was experimenting, I discovered that adding a hint of garlic and a sprinkle of nutmeg elevates the flavor profile incredibly. These small adjustments add depth and warmth to the dish, making it even more delightful. Plus, garnishing with fresh parsley just before serving gives it a lovely pop of color!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy Alfredo sauce that coats every bow tie pasta perfectly
Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings
Versatile base that can be customized with your favorite ingredients

Understanding Alfredo Sauce

Alfredo sauce is renowned for its rich, creamy texture, which comes from a thoughtful balance of butter, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. The fat from the butter and cream not only enriches the sauce but also allows the Parmesan to meld into a wonderfully smooth consistency. When heated correctly, the mixture becomes glossy and clings beautifully to the bow tie pasta, enhancing every bite with its velvety coating.

Using fresh Parmesan is key to achieving the best flavor. Pre-grated cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect meltability and texture. By grating your own, you ensure a superior melt, resulting in a luscious sauce that is true to tradition. When combining the cheese, make sure to whisk continuously to avoid clumps, allowing the sauce to reach that perfect creamy finish.

Cooking Bow Tie Pasta to Perfection

Cooking pasta might seem straightforward, but timing is crucial for achieving the ideal texture. Follow package instructions for cooking time, but start checking for doneness a minute or two early. The pasta should be 'al dente'—tender with a slight firmness in the center. This texture not only holds up better in the sauce but also provides a satisfying bite that contributes to the overall dining experience.

Don't forget to generously salt your boiling water! It should taste like the sea. This is your opportunity to flavor the pasta from the inside out. Additionally, reserve a cup of pasta water before draining; this starchy liquid can be added to the sauce later if you need to adjust the consistency.

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Sauce

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

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Alfredo Sauce

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

Combine Ingredients

Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to combine thoroughly.

Serve

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Bow Tie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding cooked chicken or sautéed vegetables such as broccoli or spinach to the pasta. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds a wonderful texture to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

While Bow Tie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce is delicious on its own, it’s an excellent base for additional ingredients. Consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables like spinach or broccoli for a balanced meal. For a touch of brightness, a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can lift the creamy flavors and add a refreshing twist.

Serving this dish in a shallow bowl allows for a beautiful presentation and showcases the elegant shapes of the bow tie pasta. Pair it with a crisp salad or garlic bread to round out the meal, making it ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to prepare it ahead, you can make the Alfredo sauce in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, gently reheat it over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce as needed.

If you’re considering freezing, the texture of the sauce may change once thawed, but it can still be done. Store the cooked pasta and sauce separately; both can be frozen for up to two months. When reheating, ensure you do so gently to avoid separating the sauce. This makes weeknight meals even easier!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Using milk will make the sauce lighter, but it may not be as creamy. For the best results, stick with heavy cream.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk to bring it back to life.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce a day in advance. Just reheat and toss with the cooked pasta before serving.

→ What can I add to this recipe?

Feel free to customize with ingredients like grilled chicken, shrimp, or seasonal vegetables for a heartier meal!