Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory ground beef, a rich and creamy sauce, and bowtie pasta in one delicious dish. This hearty meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions when you want something filling, flavorful, and easy to make. The creamy sauce, made from a blend of cream, cheese, and seasonings, complements the beef and pasta perfectly, creating a satisfying and indulgent dish that everyone will love.
With a balance of savory beef and rich creaminess, this dish is ideal for those who crave a comforting pasta meal that’s quick to prepare yet full of flavor. Whether you’re feeding your family or entertaining guests, Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta will become a go-to recipe for its simplicity and mouthwatering taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Rich, Creamy Sauce
The creamy sauce brings the dish to life, providing a smooth, indulgent coating for the pasta and beef that is irresistibly delicious.
2. Quick and Easy
With minimal ingredients and a straightforward process, this dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy nights.
3. Perfectly Balanced Flavors
The savory ground beef pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce and tender bowtie pasta, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal that everyone will enjoy.
4. Customizable
You can easily adjust the recipe to your taste by adding vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers, or changing the cheese to suit your preference.
5. Family-Friendly
This dish is a hit with kids and adults alike, offering a comforting, easy-to-eat meal that’s sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- Olive oil or butter
- Garlic, minced
- Onion, finely chopped
- Heavy cream
- Cream cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper
- Dried Italian herbs (such as oregano or basil)
- Optional: Fresh spinach or mushrooms for added texture and flavor
Variations
- Vegetable Add-ins: Add spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas for extra flavor and nutrients. You can sauté the vegetables with the beef for a hearty meal.
- Spicy Beef and Pasta: Add red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the beef while cooking for a kick of heat.
- Cheese Variations: Swap the Parmesan for another cheese like mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile. A blend of cheeses can also be used for extra creaminess.
- Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a lighter version, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken, keeping the rest of the ingredients the same.
- Vegan Version: Use a plant-based meat substitute and dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives to make a vegan version of this dish.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Add the Aromatics
Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and add the cream cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cream cheese has melted and combined with the beef. Then, pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Add the Cheese and Seasoning
Once the sauce is creamy and thickened, add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts into the sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs to taste.
Step 6: Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet with the creamy beef mixture. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the pasta is fully coated with the sauce.
Step 7: Serve
Serve the creamy beef and bowtie pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: For the best flavor and texture, always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated cheese.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to soften once mixed with the creamy sauce.
- Add Extra Veggies: For a more complete meal, add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas to the beef and cream sauce.
- Use Full-Fat Dairy: For the creamiest texture and richest flavor, use full-fat cream and cream cheese. Skim milk or low-fat versions may not thicken as well.
How to Serve
Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is perfect on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. The richness of the pasta makes it a complete meal, but adding a light, fresh side like a Caesar salad or steamed vegetables can provide a nice balance. Serve with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, to complement the creamy, savory flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover creamy beef and bowtie pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to help bring back the creamy consistency.
Freezing
To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely. Transfer the pasta and sauce into an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little extra cream if necessary.
Reheating
Reheat leftover pasta over low heat, adding a bit of cream or milk to restore the creamy texture. Stir occasionally until the dish is heated through and the sauce is smooth.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any type of pasta will work in this dish—penne, fusilli, or rigatoni are all great options.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just reheat it when ready to serve, adding a little milk or cream to keep the sauce creamy.
3. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef and will still give you a tasty, lighter version of this dish.
4. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers are great additions that pair well with the creamy beef sauce.
5. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but the sauce may not be as thick and creamy.
6. Can I use a dairy-free cream for this recipe?
Yes, for a dairy-free version, you can use coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream substitute along with dairy-free cheese.
7. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the beef while cooking for a spicy kick.
8. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the dish after cooking. Just be sure to let it cool before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
9. Can I make this dish without cheese?
While cheese adds richness and flavor, you can skip it for a lighter version, though the dish may be less creamy.
10. How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer the sauce longer to reduce it or add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water.
Conclusion
Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is the epitome of comfort food, offering a rich and satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. The creamy sauce, savory beef, and tender pasta create a perfect harmony of flavors, making this dish a go-to for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its quick preparation and endless variations, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your cooking rotation. Enjoy every comforting bite of this creamy, cheesy, beef-filled pasta!
Print
Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a rich, hearty dish featuring tender beef, savory seasonings, and a creamy sauce that perfectly coats the bowtie pasta. This one-pan meal is simple to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. The combination of beef, cream, and pasta creates a satisfying, comforting meal that everyone will love. A quick and easy family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Additional grated Parmesan for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (about 9-10 minutes). Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set it aside. - Cook the beef:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil (or butter) over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 7-8 minutes). Drain any excess fat if necessary. - Sauté the vegetables:
Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened. Add the minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. - Make the creamy sauce:
Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the heavy cream and bring the mixture back to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. - Combine the pasta and sauce:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the beef mixture. Toss the pasta to coat it in the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. - Add Parmesan and finish:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix well until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. - Serve:
Serve the creamy beef and bowtie pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
- For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though the sauce won’t be as rich.
- You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative to beef.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
- You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the dish for added nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired