When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the mark like a creamy, savory pasta. Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is the epitome of this! With tender bowtie pasta enveloped in a rich, cheesy, and flavorful beef sauce, it’s a meal the whole family will devour. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting a cozy dinner, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds.

Packed with hearty ground beef, creamy heavy cream, and a blend of cheeses, this recipe is not just filling but incredibly satisfying. Let’s break down the ingredients, the easy-to-follow steps, and tips to make this meal your new go-to comfort food.

Ingredients for Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Before diving into the steps, gather these simple ingredients that come together in the most amazing way. This recipe features both familiar flavors and a few surprises that elevate it to a new level of deliciousness. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb ground beef – The star of the dish, giving it the savory, hearty flavor.
8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle) – This charming pasta shape holds onto the creamy sauce, making each bite satisfying.
1 tbsp olive oil – For cooking the beef and aromatics to perfection.
1 small onion, diced – Adds a slight sweetness and depth to the sauce.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Aromatic and bold, garlic makes this sauce flavorful.
1 cup beef broth – A rich base to help form the sauce, giving it that beefy depth.
1 cup heavy cream – This makes the sauce creamy and luxurious.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Cheddar gives the sauce a sharp, tangy kick.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Parmesan adds a salty, umami depth to the flavor.
1 tsp paprika – Adds a hint of warmth and smokiness.
Salt & pepper – To taste, these staples bring the flavors together.
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional) – A touch of green to freshen up the dish and add a burst of color.

This is a comforting, cheesy recipe that doesn’t require any fancy ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual get-together.

Step-by-Step Directions for Making Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Ready to make this creamy, savory dish? Here’s the step-by-step guide to prepare the Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta that’ll have you savoring every bite. Each step is simple, ensuring you get a meal that’s both delicious and easy to prepare.

1. Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the bowtie pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it reaches the perfect al dente texture (usually around 9-11 minutes). Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally to prevent it from sticking.

Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well and set it aside. You want to make sure the pasta is drained thoroughly so that the sauce can cling to it when combined.

2. Cook the Beef

While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook the beef, breaking it up into smaller crumbles with a spatula or spoon. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s browned and fully cooked.

As the beef cooks, be sure to drain off any excess fat. You want to leave enough for flavor but remove any greasy residue that could make the dish overly oily.

3. Sauté the Aromatics

Once the beef is browned and cooked through, it’s time to add the onion and garlic. Add the diced onion to the beef and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until the onions are softened and translucent. The minced garlic should be added after the onions, and sauté it with the beef for another minute. The garlic will become fragrant and add a wonderful depth to the overall flavor.

These aromatics are key to building the savory base of your creamy sauce, so don’t rush this step!

4. Make the Creamy Sauce

After the garlic and onions have sautéed perfectly, pour in the beef broth. Stir everything to combine and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let the broth reduce slightly for about 5 minutes—this helps intensify the flavor.

Next, stir in the heavy cream. The cream adds richness and creaminess to the sauce, turning it from a basic beef broth into a luscious, smooth sauce. Mix it in well and continue stirring to incorporate.

Then, add both the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt into the sauce, creating a thick, creamy texture that clings to the pasta. As the cheeses melt, stir constantly to avoid clumping.

Add the paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. The paprika will provide a hint of warmth and smokiness, and the salt and pepper will bring all the flavors together.

5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Now comes the fun part! Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet with the creamy beef sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce, making sure it’s well-coated with the cheesy goodness. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, allowing everything to heat through and the pasta to soak up some of the sauce. This will ensure every bite is rich and creamy.

6. Serve and Garnish

Once everything is well combined and heated, it’s time to serve! Dish out the Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley (if desired). The parsley not only adds a burst of color but also gives a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.

Serve immediately and enjoy this hearty, comforting meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household!

Nutritional Information

Curious about the calorie content for Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta? Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: 600 kcal
Total Time: 30 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

This dish is hearty but doesn’t overload you with unnecessary calories, making it a filling yet balanced choice for a weeknight meal.

Tips for the Best Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

If you’re looking to take this dish to the next level, here are a few pro tips to ensure that your creamy pasta turns out perfect every time:

Don’t overcook the pasta: Pasta that’s cooked perfectly al dente will absorb the sauce better and hold its texture.
Use high-quality beef: For the best flavor, opt for lean ground beef, but feel free to experiment with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option.
Cheese variations: Swap out the cheddar for Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a different flavor profile. You can also add a bit of cream cheese for extra creaminess!
Add veggies: You can sneak in some veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to make the dish even heartier.
Make it spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Variations and Customizations

Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a flexible recipe, so feel free to make adjustments based on what you have on hand. Here are some variations you can try:

Swap the pasta: If you don’t have bowtie pasta, any type of short pasta like penne, rotini, or fusilli works just as well.
Try a different protein: For a leaner option, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. If you want something with more flavor, ground sausage or Italian sausage can give the dish an extra punch.
Use a different cheese: If you don’t have cheddar or Parmesan, try mozzarella, Gouda, or Fontina. Each will create a slightly different flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While making this recipe, there are a few things you should keep in mind to avoid ruining your dish:

Not draining the fat from the beef: If there’s too much grease in your skillet, it will make the sauce too oily. Be sure to drain excess fat after cooking the beef.
Skipping the simmering process: Letting the beef broth reduce before adding the cream and cheese helps concentrate the flavors. Don’t rush this step!
Overcooking the pasta: Overcooked pasta can become mushy and not hold up well with the creamy sauce. Keep an eye on the cooking time and test the pasta for doneness.
Not adding enough seasoning: Taste your sauce as you go! The paprika, salt, and pepper are essential for bringing out the rich flavors.

FAQs for Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! Store the cooled pasta in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat it gently in a skillet, adding a bit of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture.

What can I serve with this pasta?

Pair this dish with garlic bread, steamed vegetables, or a simple side salad to balance out the richness of the pasta.

Can I add other seasonings to the sauce?

Of course! Feel free to get creative with Italian seasoning, oregano, or basil. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also elevate the flavor of the sauce.

Conclusion

Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is an absolute crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender bowtie pasta coated in a creamy, cheesy beef sauce, it’s a dish that’s rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or a comforting dish to serve on the weekend, this recipe checks all the boxes.

For more amazing recipes like this, be sure to check out:

Enjoy making this creamy, savory pasta, and don’t forget to share your version of the recipe with friends and family!

Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta – A Delicious Comfort Meal

Author: Amelia Sullivan
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

This creamy beef and bowtie pasta is a rich, comforting dish that combines perfectly cooked pasta with savory ground beef, a luscious creamy sauce, and melted cheeses. It’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor, making it an ideal weeknight dinner for the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale

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 the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Remove any excess fat.
Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the beef in the skillet. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until the onion is softened and fragrant.
Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the beef broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta in the creamy beef sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
Serve: Serve the creamy beef and bowtie pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy!

Notes

You can substitute the bowtie pasta with any other pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.
For extra creaminess, you can add more heavy cream or a splash of milk.
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added color and nutrition.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1/4 of the recipe)
Calories: 600 kcal
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 700mg
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta, Beef Bowtie Pasta, Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe, Hearty Beef Pasta, Comfort Food Pasta, Easy Beef Pasta, Creamy Pasta with Ground Beef