If you are on the hunt for a comfort food classic that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine tender ground beef cooked to perfection, enveloped in a luscious, cheesy sauce that clings lovingly to each perfectly cooked bowtie pasta piece. It’s rich, satisfying, and surprisingly simple to make in just 30 minutes — an ideal meal for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty but without the fuss. This recipe strikes a perfect balance between creamy indulgence and straightforward cooking, making dinner both effortless and memorable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is a vital first step, and this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe takes advantage of simple, everyday staples that come together beautifully. Each item plays a key role: the ground beef brings savory depth, the cheeses melt into a velvety sauce, and the bowtie pasta provides a fun, textured base that holds everything together perfectly.
- 1 lb ground beef: Look for lean ground beef to keep the dish hearty but not greasy.
- 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle): The unique shape traps sauce in every crease for a perfect bite.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds flavor and helps cook the aromatics without sticking.
- 1 small onion, diced: Provides sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant punch that complements the beef nicely.
- 1 cup beef broth: Enhances the savory notes and builds the sauce base.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious creaminess that makes this recipe truly indulgent.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts smoothly and adds a sharp, comforting flavor.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings nutty undertones and perfect seasoning.
- 1 tsp paprika: Offers a subtle smoky warmth to balance the richness.
- Salt & pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors together.
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, bright note and a pop of color on top.
How to Make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the bowtie pasta in salted water following package directions until al dente. This ensures the pasta maintains a slight bite that stands up well to the creamy sauce. Once cooked, drain well and set aside, ready to be combined with the rich beef mixture.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent and tender — this builds the foundation of flavor. Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about one minute until fragrant. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it up as it browns evenly. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the sauce silky rather than greasy.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour the beef broth into the skillet with the browned beef and bring it to a gentle simmer. Then, pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Add in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese along with the paprika, stirring until the cheeses fully melt and the sauce thickens to a smooth, velvety consistency. This cheesy mixture is where the magic truly happens — the flavor depths combine into one irresistible sauce.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Return the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and stir thoroughly to coat every bowtie with the creamy beef sauce. At this stage, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to ensure every bite is perfectly balanced.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Once combined, it’s time to plate up your creation. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a beautiful green contrast and fresh note if you like. Serve this hearty, creamy dish while it’s warm and enjoy every comforting forkful!
How to Serve Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that brightens up the Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe visually and flavor-wise. You might also try a light dusting of extra Parmesan or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you’re craving a little heat. These simple additions make the dish look and taste extra special without any extra effort.
Side Dishes
To round out your meal, serve this pasta alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. A crusty garlic bread or warm rolls are also fantastic for soaking up any remaining creamy sauce on your plate — comfort food at its best!
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this creamy beef and bowtie pasta in individual ramekins or shallow bowls, topped with parsley and a swirl of olive oil. Turning it into a baked casserole by adding a sprinkle of breadcrumbs and baking until golden can elevate it for guests or meal prep variations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it cool completely before storing to preserve the sauce’s creamy texture when reheated.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers. It’s best eaten within 2 months for the freshest flavor. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the creamy consistency.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce seems too thick or has separated. Stir often to restore creamy perfection without overcooking the pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta shape for this recipe?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is ideal for holding the sauce, you can substitute with penne, rotini, or even shells — just adjust the cooking time accordingly to keep the pasta al dente.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can swap the heavy cream for coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese alternatives to make it suitable for dairy-free diets. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious!
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for a special occasion?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce a day in advance and cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve, keeping the pasta’s texture perfect and flavors bright.
What’s a good way to add more vegetables to this recipe?
Feel free to stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers along with the onions for some extra nutrition and color without changing the cozy feel of the dish.
How do I make the sauce less thick if I prefer it creamier?
Simply add a little more beef broth or cream while simmering to adjust the sauce consistency to your liking — a little extra liquid helps keep it luscious and pourable.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe is hands down one of those incredible meals that sparks joy every time you make it. Its rich, cheesy sauce combined with savory beef and perfectly textured pasta is the kind of dish you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, dive in with confidence – it’s comfort food made simple and satisfying in every bite.
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
A rich and comforting creamy beef and bowtie pasta dish featuring tender ground beef cooked with aromatic onions and garlic, tossed in a luscious cheese sauce made from heavy cream, cheddar, and Parmesan. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner, this recipe combines hearty flavors with the perfect pasta shape for an indulgent meal ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Cook the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish rich but not greasy.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the beef broth and bring it to a simmer to deglaze the pan and infuse flavor. Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and paprika. Continue stirring until the cheeses completely melt and the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Combine: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet with the creamy beef sauce. Toss thoroughly to coat every piece of pasta with the delicious, cheesy mixture. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the creamy beef and bowtie pasta immediately while hot and enjoy a hearty, comforting meal.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Use freshly grated cheeses for better melting and more flavor.
- Drain excess fat from the cooked beef to avoid a greasy sauce.
- Fresh parsley garnish adds a nice color contrast and freshness but can be omitted.
- This recipe can be doubled easily for larger groups.
