Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a weeknight dinner that’s as comforting as a big, cozy hug, look no further than Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta. This dish combines tender farfalle (those adorable bowtie noodles) with savory ground beef, a creamy, cheesy sauce, and a touch of Italian flair. Every bite delivers a perfect mix of hearty protein, luscious richness, and herby freshness, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for families or anyone who loves a soul-satisfying pasta meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is chosen to bring depth and character to your plate. This is an unfussy recipe with staples that work together to create layers of flavor, velvety texture, and those little pops of freshness that make every forkful memorable.

• Farfalle (bowtie pasta): These charming pasta shapes are perfect for holding onto creamy sauce and beef.
• Olive oil: A splash of this helps brown the beef and soften the onions for a silky base.
• Ground beef: Adds richness and heartiness, making this a truly satisfying comfort dish.
• Onion: Diced onion mellows as it cooks, giving a subtle sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic brings a delightful aromatic kick that’s essential for depth.
• Diced tomatoes: Their bright acidity and juiciness help balance out the cream and cheese.
• Beef broth: Deepens the sauce, bringing bold savory notes to the party.
• Italian seasoning: Infuses the entire dish with herbaceous flavor that keeps you coming back for another bite.
• Smoked paprika: Adds subtle smokiness and a gentle warmth that complements the beef.
• Salt: Just enough to amplify all the other flavors without overpowering them.
• Black pepper: Gives a gentle heat and brings out the complexity of the other spices.
• Heavy cream: The secret to the sauce’s luscious, silky-smooth texture.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella): Melts into the sauce, making it luxuriously creamy and gooey.
• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of this herb at the end adds color and a burst of freshness to lighten up each serving.

How to Make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, toss in the bowtie pasta, and cook it just until al dente, following the package directions. Drain well and set aside; this gives you perfectly chewy pasta that won’t go mushy when tossed with the delectable sauce later.

Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onion

Heat up the olive oil in a big skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add both the ground beef and diced onion, cooking them together until the beef turns beautifully brown and the onions become soft and fragrant, about 5 to 7 minutes. This is where the dish starts building serious flavor.

Step 3: Add the Garlic

Once the beef is browned, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for just a minute or two. You’ll smell the aroma bloom, signaling the garlic’s deliciously pungent flavor is ready to infuse the dish.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Next, pour the diced tomatoes (don’t drain them — you want all that juice!), beef broth, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper into the skillet. Give everything a good stir. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer so the flavors can meld together for about 5 to 7 minutes.

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Cheese

Lower the heat to keep things from scorching, then pour in the heavy cream. After a couple of minutes, add the shredded cheese. Stir while it melts into the sauce, turning everything irresistibly creamy and velvety — this is the moment Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta comes alive!

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add your cooked bowtie pasta right into the skillet or pot. Toss everything thoroughly so every piece of pasta is coated in that rich, creamy beef sauce, making sure none of it goes to waste at the bottom of the pan.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Spoon the creamy pasta into bowls, then sprinkle plenty of fresh chopped parsley on top. Grab a fork and get ready to dive in — your sensational Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is ready to serve!

How to Serve Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Garnishes

For this dish, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley works wonders to refresh the palate and add a burst of color. If you want to go a step further, try grating a little extra cheese over the top or add a dusting of freshly cracked black pepper for added pizzazz.

Side Dishes

You can’t go wrong pairing Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta with a crisp green salad, perhaps with a zesty vinaigrette or some crunchy cucumbers for contrast. Garlic bread or a toasty baguette is perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce, making your meal truly complete.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling playful, serve the pasta in individual gratin dishes, topped with more cheese and broiled for a bubbly top. Or, add a swirl of pesto as a finishing touch to create gorgeous green ribbons across your creamy main course. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes is also a wonderful way to kick things up for adventurous eaters.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is almost as delightful as when it’s fresh. Allow the leftovers to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors continue to deepen overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch something special.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this pasta is freezer-friendly. Store cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to two months. Be sure to leave a bit of room at the top of the container for expansion, and label it with the date so you can enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal anytime.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through. Either way keeps your Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta luscious and creamy without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While bowtie (farfalle) pasta holds the sauce beautifully, you can swap it for penne, rotini, or even shells, and the end result will be just as delicious.

What’s the best way to lighten up the recipe?

If you’d like a lighter take, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and opt for a leaner ground beef or even ground turkey. The dish will still be creamy, but a bit easier on the waistline.

Can I add extra veggies?

Yes, you can easily sneak veggies into Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta! Try stirring in spinach, diced bell peppers, or mushrooms with the onions. They’ll melt into the background and add both nutrition and flavor.

Is this dish spicy?

No, Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is mild and family-friendly. If you prefer a little heat, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or swap the regular paprika for hot paprika.

How can I make this dish ahead for a party?

You can prepare the pasta and sauce separately a day ahead and refrigerate them. Just before serving, reheat the sauce, toss with pasta, and sprinkle with fresh parsley. It’s a surefire way to impress guests without a last-minute rush.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about a pot of Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta, especially when it brings everyone around the table for a shared meal. With just a handful of everyday ingredients and a bit of love, you can whip up this cozy dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Treat yourself to its creamy, savory goodness soon — you’ll be thrilled you did!

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