If you have a craving for something comforting, rich, and downright delicious, this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe is about to become your new go-to dinner. Imagine tender ground beef simmered in a luscious sauce made with beef broth, heavy cream, and a perfect blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses—all tossed with delightful bowtie pasta. It’s a perfect marriage of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors that come together effortlessly in under 30 minutes. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend treat, this dish delivers big on taste without requiring a ton of fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe, you don’t need a long list of obscure items—just simple, everyday ingredients that pack incredible flavor. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s enhancing richness, adding texture, or upping the comfort factor to the max.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides hearty protein and a juicy, savory base for the sauce.
- 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle): The perfect shape to hold onto that creamy sauce in every bite.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps brown the beef and onion for that beautifully caramelized flavor.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to balance the richness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant, savory kick that wakes up the dish.
- 1 cup beef broth: Builds a meaty, flavorful foundation for the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The silky, dreamy ingredient that makes this pasta irresistibly creamy.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts smoothly into the sauce with a sharp, tangy flavor.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish with rich umami notes.
- 1 tsp paprika: A subtle smoky warmth that brightens the dish.
- Salt & pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together.
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional): A pop of fresh green color and a light herbal touch.
How to Make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente—firm to the bite but cooked through. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. This step lays the foundation for those perfect little pasta pockets that the delicious creamy sauce will cling to.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss in the ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat, then add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté everything together until the onion softens and becomes fragrant. This combo creates that irresistible base flavor that carries through the whole dish.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce
Stir in the paprika, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture. Pour in the beef broth and bring it to a gentle simmer—this adds depth and richness. Reduce the heat, then slowly stir in the heavy cream, letting it blend smoothly. This is where the sauce transforms from simple to luscious, wrapping each ingredient in silky goodness.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheeses
Lower the heat to medium-low and add both the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt completely into the sauce, making it creamy and thick. The combination of cheeses brings sharpness and nuttiness that elevate every forkful of this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Finally, add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so that each piece of pasta is generously coated. This step ensures that every bite bursts with creamy beef flavor and cheesy comfort.
How to Serve Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a lively green color and a hint of brightness that cuts through the richness beautifully. You might also consider a little extra sprinkle of Parmesan if you want to amp up the cheesiness right before serving.
Side Dishes
This dish is pretty hearty on its own but pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables. Garlic bread or crusty baguette are classic companions to mop up every last bit of that creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls layered with a dash of extra cheese and parsley on top. You could also bake it briefly in a casserole dish topped with breadcrumbs for a crispy crust to contrast the creamy interior—an irresistible upgrade perfect for gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep or easy lunches.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers, too, but for best results, avoid freezing the pasta with the creamy sauce. Instead, freeze the beef mixture and pasta separately in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring often to prevent the cream from separating. Add a splash of milk or broth if the sauce seems too thick to bring back that perfect creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is great for gripping the sauce, you can substitute with penne, rotini, or even shells. Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente so it holds its shape when mixed with the creamy beef sauce.
Is it necessary to use both cheddar and Parmesan cheese?
Using both cheeses balances sharpness and nuttiness, giving the sauce more complexity. However, if you only have one of them on hand, feel free to use just cheddar or just Parmesan—it will still be delicious.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for plant-based ground meat or hearty mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and keep the rest of the ingredients the same for a satisfying, creamy pasta dish.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick or too thin?
If your sauce turns out too thick, gradually add a bit more beef broth or cream while stirring until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a little longer uncovered to allow excess liquid to evaporate and thicken up.
Can this recipe be doubled for a crowd?
Definitely! This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe scales up nicely. Just be sure to use a large enough skillet or pot to cook the beef and mix the pasta thoroughly with the sauce to keep all that delicious creaminess evenly distributed.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe is a total crowd-pleaser that brings warmth to your table quickly and easily. Its blend of hearty beef, tender pasta, and creamy cheesy sauce is the perfect comfort food for any day of the week. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and make it your own favorite—it just might become your most requested meal ever!
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 is a comforting and hearty dish combining tender ground beef, perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, and a rich, cheesy cream sauce. Infused with aromatic garlic, savory onion, and a hint of paprika, this meal is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. Garnished with fresh parsley, it brings a vibrant touch to a classic pasta favorite.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 lb ground beef
Pasta
- 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids & Dairy
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper, to taste
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 package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics and Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the beef broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it reduce slightly for 3-4 minutes to concentrate the flavors.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Add the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked bowtie pasta back into the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the creamy beef sauce. Cook together for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve and Garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the creamy beef and bowtie pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich.
- You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms during the sauté step for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor results.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently over low heat with a splash of milk or broth.
- Adjust paprika quantity based on your preferred spice level.
