If you’re craving a dish that combines rich flavors, satisfying textures, and comforting creaminess, this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Featuring tender bowtie pasta tossed in a luscious beef and cheese sauce, every bite is a little moment of joy. The hearty ground beef melds perfectly with the smooth, cheesy cream sauce, while the subtle hints of garlic and Italian seasoning elevate this easy-to-make dinner into a family favorite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend meal, this recipe delivers both taste and warmth in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but crucial for creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures in your creamy beef and bowtie pasta. Each one plays its part in delivering that rich, comforting dish you’ll keep coming back to.
- 12 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta: Its shape holds the sauce beautifully and adds a fun texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the beef and onions, bringing out a subtle fruity depth.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides hearty, meaty goodness that’s the star of the dish.
- 1 small yellow onion (diced): Adds natural sweetness and a bit of crunch when cooked.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the sauce with warm, aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A classic blend that lifts the overall taste.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors evenly.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right kick without overpowering.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Gives depth and slight tanginess to the sauce.
- 1 cup beef broth: Builds a savory base for the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates that luscious, silky texture every creamy beef pasta needs.
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and adds gooey richness.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings sharpness and a salty punch.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): A fresh, colorful finish that brightens the dish.
How to Make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta
Start by boiling water with a good pinch of salt, then cook your bowtie pasta according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. This texture ensures the pasta holds up beautifully when mixed with the creamy sauce later. Drain it well and set it aside, so it’s ready to take on that delicious beefy coating.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef and Onion
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add your ground beef along with the diced onion. Cook this mixture until the beef is browned and the onions turn soft and translucent, about 6 to 8 minutes. This process not only develops savory depth but also ensures those onions sweeten up to complement the meat wonderfully. Don’t forget to drain any excess grease afterward—nobody wants a greasy sauce!
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
Toss in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. Let them cook together for a minute or two—it lets those flavors release and mingle, creating the classic base your creamy beef sauce needs. The tomato paste will add a subtle richness and slight acidity that balances out the creaminess later on.
Step 4: Add Broth and Cream for Creaminess
Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring everything smoothly so the sauce begins to come together. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 4 to 5 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and develop that irresistible silky texture you’re after in every bite of your Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese
Finally, add the cooked bowtie pasta back into the skillet along with the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan. Stir well until all the cheese melts into the sauce, coating every piece of pasta with that decadent, cheesy goodness. At this point, your kitchen will smell incredible, and your dish will be ready to bring to the table.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped parsley over the finished dish for a pop of fresh color and an herbal note. Now, your creamy beef and bowtie pasta is ready to serve warm and impress your family, friends, or just your hungry self!
How to Serve Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
While the parsley adds a lovely fresh contrast, you can also consider adding a light sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a few cracked black pepper flakes on top. These small touches create an appealing presentation and add layers of texture and flavor that turn this comfort food into a real treat.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon vinaigrette. Steamed or roasted vegetables, especially green beans or broccoli, provide a fresh balance to the rich main dish without competing for attention.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this pasta in wide, shallow bowls to showcase those perfectly sauced bowties. For a fun twist, sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs or chopped nuts on top for an unexpected crunchy contrast, or even stir in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Your creamy beef and bowtie pasta will keep well for 3 to 4 days, making it ideal for meal prep or quick lunches during a busy week.
Freezing
This recipe freezes nicely. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it will maintain its flavor and texture for up to 2 months. Just be aware that heavy cream and cheese sauces may separate slightly upon thawing, but a good stir while reheating usually brings things back together.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce feels too thick. Avoid microwaving on high to prevent drying out or curdling. Stirring frequently will help restore that original creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is perfect for holding the creamy sauce, feel free to use penne, rotini, or even shells if that’s what you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure your pasta stays al dente.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
Yes! You could substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream to reduce the fat content. Using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef also lightens the dish while keeping it flavorful.
Can I add vegetables to the creamy beef and bowtie pasta recipe?
Definitely! Adding spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini can add extra nutrition and texture that complement the creamy sauce nicely. Just sauté them with the onions or fold them in at the end.
How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
If your sauce thickens more than you like, simply stir in a little extra beef broth or milk while cooking or reheating. This keeps the sauce smooth and luscious without watering down the flavors.
What cheese can I use if I don’t have mozzarella or Parmesan?
Try substituting with other melting cheeses like provolone, fontina, or even a mild cheddar. For the Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a great alternative if you want that sharp, salty bite to enhance the sauce.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe, it’s bound to become a beloved staple in your home cooking. It’s just that kind of dish with hearty flavor, irresistible creaminess, and goofy little bowtie noodles that make mealtime feel special. Simple ingredients come together in such a cozy way, making this recipe an absolute winner for any night of the week. So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to a bowl of creamy, cheesy comfort—you won’t regret it!
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
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
A rich and creamy beef and bowtie pasta dish featuring tender ground beef simmered in a flavorful cream and beef broth sauce, combined with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses for a comforting and hearty meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta
Beef Mixture
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
Cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Prepare the bowtie pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Brown Beef and Onion: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and diced onion, cooking until beef is browned and onions are soft, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and tomato paste. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes to blend flavors.
- Simmer Sauce: Pour in beef broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheeses melt and the sauce coats the pasta evenly.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm for a delicious, creamy beef pasta meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or sausage in place of the beef for different protein options.
- Add spinach or mushrooms to the skillet for extra vegetables and nutrients.
