If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug, you are going to love this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe. Imagine tender ground beef mingling with cheesy, velvety sauce, all wrapped around beautiful bowtie pasta that holds onto every bite of flavor. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that brings together savory, creamy, and cheesy notes in every forkful, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners where everyone’s asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating a balance of taste, texture, and color. From the lean ground beef providing a rich, savory base, to the creamy cheese that makes everything luscious, these ingredients come together in the easiest way possible to deliver maximum comfort.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: Provides robust, meaty flavor and protein to keep the dish hearty and satisfying.
- ½ cup medium onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and texture contrast when sautéed.
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic: Boosts the aroma with its warm, fragrant punch.
- Salt, to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
- Pepper, to taste: Adds just the right hint of spice to balance the creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Lends a smoky depth and vibrant color.
- 3 cups beef broth: Infuses the pasta with savory richness while cooking it perfectly.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Creates that irresistible creamy texture that coats every pasta bite.
- 3 cups bowtie pasta (farfalle), dry measurement: The perfect pasta shape that catches sauce in all the right places.
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts throughout for cheesy goodness and a wonderful gooey finish.
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley and extra cheese: Adds a fresh, colorful touch and an extra cheesy kick if desired.
How to Make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef, diced onions, and minced garlic. Stir constantly, breaking apart the beef until it loses its pink color and the onions soften. This step builds the savory flavor foundation, so let the aroma fill your kitchen. Next, season everything with salt, pepper, and paprika, which brings that gentle smoky warmth to the dish.
Step 2: Combine Beef Broth, Cream, and Pasta
Now, pour the beef broth and heavy whipping cream right into the skillet with the browned beef mixture. Stir in the dry bowtie pasta. This is where the magic begins — the pasta will absorb all those rich flavors as it cooks. Bring the mixture to a boil, then quickly reduce the heat to let it simmer.
Step 3: Simmer Until Pasta is Tender
Cover the skillet and allow the pasta to gently simmer for about 10 to 12 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent any sticking on the bottom. Watch as the liquid reduces and the pasta absorbs the creamy broth, becoming tender but perfectly al dente. This keeps the dish creamy without any excess liquid.
Step 4: Stir in Shredded Cheese and Serve
Finish the dish by lowering the heat to low and mixing in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s just melted and blended into the sauce. This step is key to getting that extra melty, cozy factor. Serve it warm, and if you like, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and a little extra cheese for a fresh and cheesy topping. Now you’re ready to dive into the best Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe you’ve ever tasted!
How to Serve Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese can transform this dish from good to unforgettable. The green parsley adds a pop of color and a mild herbaceous note that lifts the richness, while additional cheese adds an indulgent finish.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe works beautifully with crisp, refreshing side salads, such as a classic Caesar or mixed greens with vinaigrette. You could also serve it alongside steamed or roasted veggies like broccoli or green beans to bring an extra layer of nutrition and crunch to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try plating the pasta in individual bowls and topping each with a soft-boiled egg or a drizzle of chili oil for a little heat. You could also bake the mixture in a casserole dish topped with breadcrumbs for an irresistibly crispy crust—perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from this creamy delight, transfer them into an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll keep their flavor well for up to 3 days, giving you a quick and delicious meal the next day.
Freezing
This dish is freezer-friendly too. Let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It freezes well for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the texture might change slightly due to the cream, but it will still taste delicious once reheated.
Reheating
Warm your leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if it feels too thick. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and to restore that creamy texture. Microwave reheating works too—just heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta works wonderfully because it holds onto the sauce in its folds, you can substitute with penne, rotini, or even shells for a similar delightful texture experience.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or sauté a mix of mushrooms and lentils for a satisfying vegetarian version without losing the hearty feel of the dish.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is classic here for its sharp, melty quality, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a smoked gouda for different flavor profiles.
Can I use low-fat cream or milk?
Using heavy cream gives the dish its luxurious texture, but you can use half-and-half or whole milk as a lighter alternative. Just note the sauce will be a bit less rich and thick.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking during cooking?
Stir the pasta occasionally as it simmers and make sure there’s enough liquid in the skillet. Covering the pan traps moisture and helps cook evenly, but occasional stirring is key to avoid clumps.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe has won its place as a go-to comfort food in my kitchen, and I’m confident it will in yours too. It’s rich, simple to make, and utterly satisfying. So warm up your skillet, gather those simple ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a dish that feels like a hug on a plate. 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: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a comforting one-pan dish combining lean ground beef, tender bowtie pasta, and a rich creamy sauce made with beef broth, heavy cream, and sharp cheddar cheese. Ready in just 30 minutes, this hearty meal is perfect for weeknight dinners and garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of freshness.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- ½ cup medium onion, diced
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
Seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Liquids and Dairy
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Pasta
- 3 cups bowtie pasta (farfalle), dry
Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the lean ground beef along with diced onions and minced garlic. Stir constantly to break the beef into small crumbles and cook until no longer pink.
- Season the Meat: Season the browned beef mixture with salt, pepper, and paprika to your taste, mixing well to evenly distribute the spices.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Stir in the beef broth and heavy whipping cream into the skillet. Add the dry bowtie pasta and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer the Pasta: Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the skillet. Let the pasta cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Finish with Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until just melted and combined, creating a creamy sauce coating the beef and pasta.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the creamy beef and bowtie pasta warm, optionally garnished with freshly chopped parsley and extra shredded cheddar cheese for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- To prevent sticking during simmering, stir occasionally but gently to avoid breaking the pasta.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter dish, though it will be less creamy.
- Fresh parsley adds a fresh, herby note but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and grease in the dish.
- Adjust seasoning according to your preference, especially salt and pepper.
