Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe

Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. Made with tender bowtie pasta, seasoned ground beef, a rich and creamy sauce, and melted cheese, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for your family or looking for a quick and hearty meal, this recipe is a guaranteed winner.

What Is Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta?

Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a one-pan pasta dish featuring farfalle (bowtie pasta) coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce with seasoned ground beef. The combination of Italian seasoning, paprika, and garlic enhances the flavors, while heavy cream and cheese create a rich, velvety texture. This dish is quick to prepare, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy night.
• One-pan meal – Less cleanup and maximum flavor in every bite.
• Rich and creamy – A smooth, cheesy sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
• Family-friendly – A dish that both kids and adults will love.
• Customizable – Easily swap ingredients to suit dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Pasta & Protein:

• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• 1 lb ground beef

Vegetables & Aromatics:

• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings:

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Sauce & Dairy:

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp butter

Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
• Drain and set aside.

2. Brown the Beef

• In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
• Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the beef is browned and onions are soft.
• Drain any excess grease.

3. Add Seasonings

• Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
• Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Simmer the Sauce

• Pour in the drained diced tomatoes and beef broth.
• Stir well and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.

5. Make It Creamy

• Reduce the heat to low.
• Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese, mixing until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

6. Combine Everything

• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet.
• Toss gently to coat the pasta with the creamy beef sauce.
• Let it simmer for 2 minutes to absorb the flavors.

7. Serve and Garnish

• Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top.
• Serve warm and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic bread for an extra comforting meal.
• Pair with a simple side salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Enjoy with a glass of red wine or iced tea for a balanced meal.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess.

Freezing Instructions

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove over low heat.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for extra heat.
• Vegetable Boost: Mix in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
• Protein Swap: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or sausage instead of beef.
• Lighter Option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduced-fat cheese.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Penne, rotini, or fusilli work well as substitutes for bowtie pasta.

2. How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the broth and seasonings are gluten-free.

3. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce may be thinner. You can thicken it by adding a little more cheese or a cornstarch slurry.

4. What cheese works best in this recipe?

Cheddar and mozzarella are great choices, but you can also try Parmesan or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.

Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. This one-pan meal is quick, easy, and sure to become a family favorite. Try this recipe today and enjoy a satisfying, homemade meal with minimal effort!

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