Name: Creamy Basil & Parmesan Bow Tie Pasta (20–25 Min Dinner Bowl)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 12 oz Bow tie pasta; 4 tbsp Butter; 2 tsp Garlic (minced); 1 cup Heavy cream ((or milk simmer-longer swap)); 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated); 1 cup Fresh basil (finely chopped or lightly blended); 1/4 cup Pasta water (or light broth); Salt & pepper

Flavour Quest Recipes

Creamy Basil & Parmesan Bow Tie Pasta (20–25 Min Dinner Bowl)

Creamy basil and Parmesan bow tie pasta is a quick, comforting dinner made with tender farfalle tossed in a smooth, herb-forward cream sauce. Fresh basil and savory Parmesan bring bright flavor to this easy 20–25 minute meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 20

Total Time 25

Servings: 4

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

12 oz Bow tie pasta
4 tbsp Butter
2 tsp Garlic minced
1 cup Heavy cream (or milk simmer-longer swap)
3/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated
1 cup Fresh basil finely chopped or lightly blended
1/4 cup Pasta water or light broth
Salt & pepper

Method

Boil bow tie pasta firm al-dente, drain + reserve pasta water.
Melt the butter over low heat, then warm the garlic for 1 minute.
Add cream, basil, and pasta water; simmer for 4 minutes, until thickened.
Add Parmesan gradually while stirring for a glossy melt.
Fold pasta until coated, season again with pepper, and serve warm.

🔄 Variations

Add cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for sweetness and color.

Stir in spinach or peas for a fresh veggie boost.

Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.

Use half-and-half instead of cream for a lighter sauce.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve with garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables.

Finish with extra-grated Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.

❄️ Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of milk or pasta water to loosen the sauce

💡 Tips

Add basil at the end to preserve its fresh flavor and color.
Grate Parmesan finely so it melts smoothly into the sauce.
Reserve a little pasta water to adjust sauce consistency as needed.

❓ FAQs

Q: Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
A: Fresh basil is best for flavor, but dried basil can be used in smaller amounts if needed.

Q: Will this sauce thicken as it cools?
A: Yes. Add a splash of liquid when reheating to loosen it.

Q: Can I substitute another pasta shape?
A: Yes. Penne, rotini, or fusilli all work well with this sauce.