If you’re searching for a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender ground beef, perfectly al dente bowtie pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce that brings every bite to life. This dish is a delightful blend of savory flavors with just the right creamy texture, making it a go-to weeknight favorite that never disappoints. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is straightforward, satisfying, and absolutely crave-worthy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients ensures a balanced flavor profile and beautiful texture in your Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe. Each element plays a crucial role—from the juicy ground beef adding hearty depth to the cheeses that create that signature luscious sauce.
- 1 lb ground beef: The protein base providing rich, savory flavor and a satisfying bite.
- 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle): Its unique shape catches sauce perfectly, making every forkful flavorful.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps sauté the onions and garlic, lending a subtle fruitiness.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and aromatic depth when cooked down.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a warm, fragrant punch to brighten the dish.
- 1 cup beef broth: Infuses the sauce with rich, meaty undertones for complexity.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, creamy texture that makes this pasta so indulgent.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Provides a sharp, melty goodness that binds the sauce.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish enhancing every bite.
- 1 tsp paprika: Brings a subtle smoky warmth and beautiful color to the sauce.
- Salt & pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing all the savory flavors perfectly.
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note to brighten the plate.
How to Make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the bowtie pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until just al dente, which usually takes around 10 to 12 minutes. This ensures the pasta has the perfect balance of tenderness and bite, ready to soak up all that creamy sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside so it’s ready to combine later.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it’s softened and translucent, which usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute to release that gorgeous aroma. Next, add the ground beef, breaking it up with your spoon as it browns. Once the beef is cooked through and no longer pink, drain any excess fat to keep the final dish rich but not greasy.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Pour the beef broth into the skillet with the cooked beef and bring to a gentle simmer. Slowly stir in the heavy cream, followed by the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese. Add the paprika for a touch of warmth and stunning color. Keep stirring the mixture until the cheeses melt completely and the sauce thickens into a creamy, dreamy consistency that will coat the pasta beautifully.
Step 4: Combine
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Add the drained bowtie pasta directly into the skillet with the beef and luscious sauce. Stir well so every bowtie gets generously coated with that cheesy, creamy goodness. Taste and season with salt and pepper according to your preference—this is the moment to make the dish truly your own.
Step 5: Serve
Once everything is combined and warmed through, your Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe is ready to be enjoyed. If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a vibrant touch and a hint of freshness that balances the richness. Grab a fork and dive in!
How to Serve Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish can elevate this dish from delicious to show-stopping. Fresh parsley is a classic choice, adding a bright green color and a subtle herbal note that cuts through the creamy sauce. For an added burst of flavor, you might try a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan or even some chili flakes if you crave a little heat.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides. A green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the creaminess perfectly, while roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans bring a nice texture contrast. For something heartier, crusty garlic bread is a timeless crowd-pleaser that complements every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can be fun and unexpected with this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe. Serve it in mini cast iron skillets for individual portions or scoop it into shallow bowls topped with an extra sprinkle of cheese and a sprig of parsley. You could even stuff the mixture into hollowed-out bell peppers for a colorful twist that’s as fun to look at as it is to eat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture and avoid drying out. Before refrigerating, allow the pasta to cool completely to prevent condensation inside the container.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this dish even later, it freezes well too! Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. Keep in mind that the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly upon thawing, but a quick stir and gentle reheating will bring it back to life.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce. Microwaving works as well but be sure to cover it and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, to keep the sauce creamy and prevent it from separating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta other than bowtie?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is ideal because it holds the sauce well, feel free to use penne, rotini, or even shells — any shape that can capture the creamy sauce will work beautifully in this recipe.
Is ground beef necessary, or can I substitute it?
You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even try Italian sausage for a spicier twist. Just adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your protein choice.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute, and replace cheddar and Parmesan with vegan cheese alternatives. The flavor and texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance for a party?
This dish is great for meal prep or entertaining because you can make it ahead, refrigerate, and reheat just before serving. Just keep in mind the sauce may thicken overnight, so add a bit of cream or broth when reheating to keep it luscious.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
Consider stirring in sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers during the beef cooking step for extra depth and texture. A splash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can also add interesting flavor notes.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe has quickly become one of my most beloved comfort foods to whip up, and I’m thrilled to share it with you. The ease of making it, combined with that irresistible creamy richness and hearty beef, guarantees a satisfying meal every time. Give it a try soon—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner that everyone will ask for again and again!
Print
Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta recipe combines savory ground beef with a luscious cheese sauce and tender bowtie pasta for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it offers a rich, comforting flavor with the ease of stovetop cooking in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Beef and Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Pasta
- 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside.
- Cook the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully browned. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, and paprika. Continue stirring until the cheeses fully melt and the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
- Combine: Add the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet with the beef and creamy sauce. Stir everything together to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to your taste preferences.
- Serve: Transfer to serving plates and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this hearty, creamy pasta dish!
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the paprika.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten free.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- If the sauce thickens too much when reheating, stir in a splash of milk or broth to loosen it.
