Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This creamy beef and bowtie pasta dish combines tender ground beef with a rich, cheesy sauce that clings perfectly to every bite of farfalle. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 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

1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
4. Step 4: Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Then add the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and paprika. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Step 5: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy beef sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Step 6: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy beef and bowtie pasta.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce while cooking the beef.
• Swap cheddar cheese with mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different cheesy taste.
• To make it spicier, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes with the paprika.
• Use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to ground beef.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid drying out.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, this recipe works well with many pasta shapes such as penne, rotini, or rigatoni. Just cook according to package instructions.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the sauce and beef mixture in advance, store it separately from the pasta, and combine just before serving to keep the pasta from getting mushy.

Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 70 reviews

Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a comforting and delicious dish featuring tender ground beef cooked with aromatic onions and garlic, combined with al dente bowtie pasta, all smothered in a rich, cheesy cream sauce made from cheddar, Parmesan, and a hint of paprika for a subtle smoky kick. This easy skillet recipe makes a perfect weeknight dinner that’s quick to prepare and satisfying for the whole family.

• Author: Windy
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 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

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
2. Cook the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat from the skillet.
3. Make the Sauce: Stir in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Pour in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and paprika. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens, creating a rich and creamy consistency.
4. Combine: Add the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet with the beef and sauce. Toss everything together gently until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired.
5. Serve: Garnish the creamy beef and bowtie pasta with freshly chopped parsley if you like, and serve immediately for a delicious and hearty meal.

Notes

• Drain the cooked ground beef well to avoid a greasy sauce.
• Feel free to substitute cheddar cheese with mozzarella for a different flavor.
• You can add vegetables such as mushrooms or bell peppers with the onions for extra nutrition.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it a bit longer before adding the pasta.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Keywords: creamy beef pasta, bowtie pasta recipe, ground beef pasta, cheesy pasta skillet, easy weeknight dinner