If you’re on the hunt for a dish that wraps comfort, flavor, and a touch of elegance into one bowl, this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe is your new best friend. Perfectly cooked bowtie pasta mingles with savory ground beef and a luscious, velvety sauce made with heavy cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses. Each bite offers a delightful balance of hearty meatiness, subtle Italian spices, and creamy indulgence that feels like a warm hug at the end of a busy day. Cozy, quick to prepare, and absolutely satisfying, this recipe will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s both rich in taste and comforting in texture. Each item here plays a crucial role, from the hearty ground beef bringing depth, to the bowtie pasta that provides the perfect toothsome bite, and the cheeses that make this sauce irresistibly creamy.
- 12 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta: The charming shape soaks up the sauce perfectly, offering a fun texture to every forkful.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a smooth base to cook the beef and vegetables without overpowering their natural flavors.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides hearty protein and rich savoriness that anchors the dish.
- 1 small yellow onion finely chopped: Brings subtle sweetness and depth to the meat sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic minced: Infuses the sauce with its irresistible aroma and bold flair.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors without making it overly salty.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and warms up the dish just right.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend that lifts the sauce with hints of herbs like oregano and basil.
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a gentle heat to balance the creamy richness.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that deepens the sauce and adds a lovely color.
- 1 cup beef broth: Creates the liquid foundation for the sauce and adds meaty flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The star that makes the sauce irresistibly creamy and smooth.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings nutty, salty richness that blends beautifully into the sauce.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to gooey perfection, giving the sauce a dreamy texture.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh pop of color and a mild herbal brightness.
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. Toss in the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, so it still has a slight bite. This texture is key because it will continue to absorb the glorious sauce later. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, ready for the creamy magic ahead.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Soften the Onion
While your pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef along with the finely chopped onion, and cook until the beef has browned and the onion becomes tender and translucent. This usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. The browning process is where so much flavor builds, so don’t rush it! Once done, drain off any excess grease to keep the sauce from getting greasy.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
Stir in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and if you’re up for it, the crushed red pepper flakes. Cook everything together for about a minute, until the garlic becomes fragrant and the spices really start mingling with the beef. Next, add your tomato paste and stir consistently for another minute. This helps caramelize the paste slightly, pushing the savory depth of your sauce up a notch.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer; this gives everything time to meld together. After a couple of minutes, stir in the heavy cream and let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing it to thicken gently while staying silky. This is where your sauce transforms from simple to sensational.
Step 5: Melt in the Cheeses
Reduce the heat to low before stirring in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella. Watch as the cheeses melt right into the sauce, making it decadently creamy and cheesy without a hint of graininess. This step is the heart of your Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe, sealing all those flavors together into pure comfort food heaven.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Finally, fold the cooked bowtie pasta into the sauce, tossing gently to coat every bowtie evenly. Let it simmer together for 2 to 3 minutes so the pasta absorbs some of that luscious sauce warmth, making every bite utterly satisfying.
How to Serve Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley brightens the dish with a little freshness and a pop of color, making the creamy beef and cheese pop visually and balancing the richness with its subtle herbal notes.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables, which add crunch and a breath of fresh air that complements the dense, creamy pasta. Garlic bread or a fresh baguette is also a beloved choice for sopping up any leftover sauce—because nobody wants to waste a single drop!
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the pasta in mini cast iron skillets right at the table for a rustic feel. Alternatively, adding a handful of sautéed baby spinach or roasted red peppers folded into the dish just before serving adds a colorful, healthy vibe and layers of flavor, making your Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe stand out even more.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftover pasta to an airtight container and keep it refrigerated. It retains its deliciousness for up to 3 days, making it a perfect next-day meal for busy evenings.
Freezing
If you want to save it for longer, freezing is an option! Place the pasta in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. When freezing, consider leaving the pasta slightly undercooked to prevent it from becoming mushy after reheating.
Reheating
When it’s time to enjoy your stored or frozen meal, reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or cream if needed to restore that silky sauce texture. Stir often to keep everything smooth and delicious, just like freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is ideal for holding the creamy sauce and providing a fun shape, you can swap in penne, rotini, or even shells. Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente so it holds up well in the sauce.
Is it possible to make this recipe without cream?
You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat milk mixed with a small amount of flour to help thicken, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be quite as rich or silky. For the creamiest results, stick with heavy cream whenever possible.
Can I add vegetables to this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe?
Definitely! Adding baby spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers during the sauce-making process is an excellent way to boost veggies and add extra flavor layers. Just sauté them along with the beef or stir them in near the end to keep the freshness.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Feel free to increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper to taste. A spicy kick contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce and enhances the overall flavor profile.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?
Reheat gently using low heat and add a tablespoon or two of beef broth or cream to keep the sauce from thickening too much and drying out. Stir frequently to help everything heat evenly and maintain that creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe, it’s hard not to make it a part of your regular meal rotation. It strikes the perfect balance between hearty comfort and delectable creaminess, coming together quickly with ingredients you probably already have. Whether for busy weeknights or lazy weekend dinners, this dish delivers warmth and satisfaction every single time. Give it a go—you’re going to love sharing it as much as you love eating it!
Print
Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American-Italian
Description
Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a comforting American-Italian main course featuring tender bowtie pasta tossed in a rich, cheesy sauce with browned ground beef, aromatic spices, and a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. This easy stovetop recipe is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the beef and onions: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and finely chopped yellow onion. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and onions are soft. Drain any excess grease.
- Sauté garlic and seasonings: Stir in minced garlic, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant to develop deep flavors.
- Add tomato paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute, ensuring the beef is evenly coated and the paste slightly caramelizes.
- Simmer with broth and cream: Pour in beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for 3–4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and become creamy.
- Incorporate cheeses: Reduce heat to low and mix in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses. Stir until the cheeses have melted completely and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Toss pasta in sauce: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat all the pasta evenly with the creamy beef sauce. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes until the dish is heated through.
- Serve and garnish: Remove from heat, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- For extra vegetables, you can stir in baby spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers with the sauce during the simmering step.
- Ground turkey or Italian sausage may be substituted for the ground beef for a different flavor profile.
