Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Short Description

Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a hearty and comforting dish featuring tender farfalle pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich, cheesy cream sauce. This one-pot meal is easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a busy weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • One-pot meal – minimal cleanup required.
  • Rich and creamy sauce – a perfect blend of beef broth, heavy cream, and cheese.
  • Quick and easy – ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Family-friendly – a comforting dish everyone will love.
  • Customizable – use different cheeses or add vegetables for variety.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Ground beef
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Medium onion, diced
  • Garlic cloves, minced
  • Beef broth
  • Heavy cream
  • Bowtie pasta (farfalle)
  • Shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of choice)

Directions

Cook the Beef:

  1. In a large skillet or pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Cook the Pasta:

  1. Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
  2. Add the bowtie pasta, ensuring it is fully submerged in the liquid.
  3. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.

Add the Cheese and Serve:

  1. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
  2. Adjust seasoning if needed and let the sauce thicken slightly before serving.
  3. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4-6
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

  • Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a kick.
  • Vegetable Boost: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
  • Different Cheese: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Parmesan, or a Mexican blend.
  • Low-Carb Option: Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
  • Herb Flavor: Add fresh or dried basil, oregano, or thyme for extra depth.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, penne, rotini, or fusilli work well in this recipe.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Stir occasionally while cooking and ensure there’s enough liquid to coat the pasta.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but add a little extra liquid when reheating to keep it creamy.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of Parmesan and Monterey Jack work great.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a leaner option and works well in this dish.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Let the sauce simmer a bit longer, or mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it in.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Use whole milk or add a bit of cream cheese for richness.

How do I make this dish more flavorful?

Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, or paprika for extra depth.

Is this dish gluten-free?

No, but you can use gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free.

Can I add bacon to this recipe?

Yes, crispy bacon bits make a great topping for added flavor.

Conclusion

Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a simple yet delicious one-pot meal that delivers rich flavors and a comforting texture. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner or a meal the whole family will love, this dish is a perfect choice. Try it today and enjoy a creamy, cheesy pasta loaded with savory goodness!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Grace
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a rich and comforting one-pot meal! Made with tender ground beef, bowtie pasta, a creamy cheesy sauce, and savory seasonings, it’s an easy weeknight dinner the whole family will love. Ready in under 30 minutes!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups bowtie pasta (farfalle)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of choice)

Instructions

Cook the Beef & Aromatics:

  • In a large skillet or pot, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
  • Add diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened.
  • Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.

2️⃣ Add Broth & Pasta:

  • Pour in beef broth and bring to a gentle boil.
  • Add bowtie pasta, stirring to combine. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until pasta is tender.

3️⃣ Make It Creamy:

  • Stir in heavy cream and let it simmer for 2 minutes, thickening slightly.

4️⃣ Add Cheese & Serve:

  • Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
  • Serve warm and enjoy this cheesy, creamy beef pasta!

Notes

  • Use ground turkey or Italian sausage as an alternative to beef.
  • Swap cheddar for mozzarella or Parmesan for different flavor profiles.
  • Add spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor

Leave a Comment & Rate this Recipe!

If you love this recipe, please consider giving it a star rating when you leave a comment. Star ratings help people discover my recipes online. Your support means a lot to me, I appreciate you.

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *