Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a comforting, creamy dish that combines tender ground beef, pasta, and a rich cheese sauce. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s quick, easy, and satisfying. The combination of savory beef, cheesy goodness, and pasta makes it a family favorite that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb ground beef
12 oz bowtie pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 cup beef broth
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
Add the chopped onion and garlic to the beef and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes, letting the flavors combine.
Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook, stirring frequently, until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option.
Swap the cheddar cheese for mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor.
Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and cheese sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just cook the pasta and combine everything when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, this dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Is this recipe spicy?
No, this recipe isn’t spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat if desired.

Can I make this without beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a vegetarian version.

Conclusion

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a rich, creamy, and comforting dish that’s quick to make and perfect for any night of the week. With its cheesy sauce and savory beef, this recipe will become a go-to favorite in your meal rotation.

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe