If you love the comforting embrace of a hearty pasta dish, you are going to adore this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe. It’s a luscious mix of tender ground beef and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, all swirled in a dreamy cheese sauce that’s rich but balanced with a kick of paprika. Every bite delivers creamy, savory goodness that feels just like a warm hug at the end of a long day. Whether you’re feeding a family or craving a satisfying solo supper, this dish brings simple ingredients together in a way that feels special and utterly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each one is a building block for flavor, texture, or color, and together they create a truly comforting meal.
- 1 lb ground beef: The protein powerhouse that adds heartiness and rich meaty flavor.
- 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle): Its charming shape holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity flavor and helps sauté the onions and garlic.
- 1 small onion, diced: Brings sweetness and depth to the base of the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a warm, aromatic kick that elevates the savory notes.
- 1 cup beef broth: Adds moisture and a concentrated meaty undertone to the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, luscious creaminess that defines this recipe.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey, flavorful pockets throughout the pasta.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty edge and enhances the richness.
- 1 tsp paprika: Provides a subtle smoky warmth and a lovely pop of color.
- Salt & pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and highlight all the other flavors.
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, herbaceous brightness to finish the plate.
How to Make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain it well and set it aside so it’s ready to soak up all the creamy sauce later. This step is key because perfectly cooked pasta is the foundation of the dish’s texture.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, releasing its natural sweetness. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant. Next, add the ground beef and cook it thoroughly until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks for even texture. Drain off any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Pour in the beef broth and bring the skillet to a gentle simmer. Then add the heavy cream along with the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan. Sprinkle in the paprika for color and flavor. Stir constantly until the cheese melts smoothly and the sauce thickens to a silky consistency that will cling beautifully to the pasta.
Step 4: Combine
Fold the cooked pasta into the creamy beef sauce, stirring gently to coat every bowtie with that irresistible cheesy mixture. Taste the sauce and finish by seasoning with salt and pepper. This step brings everything together and ensures every bite is perfectly balanced.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer the creamy beef and bowtie pasta to serving bowls or plates. Optionally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of bright color and a fresh, herbal touch that complements the richness.
How to Serve Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or chives add a delightful pop of color and a fresh contrast to the creamy sauce. You can also grate a touch more Parmesan over the top for extra cheesiness or even sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with crisp green salads dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the creamy richness. Roasted vegetables or garlic bread also complement the flavors perfectly, adding varied textures and rounds out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a twist, try serving the Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets straight from the oven, sprinkled with breadcrumbs for a crispy topping. Or, plate it in a shallow bowl with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a lemon wedge on the side for a fresh zing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them refrigerated. The flavors will meld overnight, making for an even tastier next-day meal. The Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe holds up well and can be eaten cold or reheated.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead, you can freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Because of the cream and cheese, the texture might change slightly upon thawing, but reheating gently will help restore creaminess.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of milk or broth as needed to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating works too; just cover the dish to prevent drying out and stir halfway through.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is fantastic for holding onto the sauce, other shapes like penne, rotini, or shells will also work wonderfully and give you slightly different textures to enjoy.
Is it possible to make this recipe healthier?
Definitely. You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a lighter cream alternative and use lean ground beef or even ground turkey. Adding extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms will boost nutrition and volume for guilt-free indulgence.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the components separately and combine them just before serving. The sauce may thicken in the fridge, so add a bit of milk or broth when reheating to restore that creamy texture.
How spicy is the paprika in this dish?
Paprika adds a mild smoky warmth rather than heat, so it won’t make the pasta spicy. If you prefer a little kick, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
What cheese works best if I don’t have cheddar or Parmesan?
If you’re out of cheddar or Parmesan, try using mozzarella for meltiness or a sharp Asiago for a similar tang. The key is combining a creamy melting cheese with a robust grated cheese to keep the sauce balanced and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe is one of those wonderfully satisfying meals that feels like a treat every single time. It’s easy to make but delivers on flavor and comfort like a classic favorite. I wholeheartedly recommend giving it a try—you might just find yourself making it over and over because it’s that good. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy, hearty bite!
Print
Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A rich and comforting dish featuring tender ground beef, creamy cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta. This creamy beef and bowtie pasta recipe combines savory beef, melted cheddar and Parmesan, and a hint of paprika for a delicious family-friendly meal ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
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
- Cook the Pasta: Boil bowtie pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Cook the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and paprika. Continue stirring until the cheeses melt completely and the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
- Combine: Add the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet with the beef and sauce. Toss everything together thoroughly so the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy, cheesy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to your preference.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy your delicious creamy beef and bowtie pasta!
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a nice spicy kick.
- If you prefer, swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Be sure not to overcook the pasta to maintain a perfect bite when combined with the sauce.
