Introduction

When I first made this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta for my family, I didn’t expect it to become an instant favorite. The combination of tender bowtie pasta in a rich, creamy beef sauce was a hit right away. Everyone from the kids to the adults raved about it, and it quickly became a staple in our dinner rotation. The hearty ground beef mixed with the creamy sauce and melted cheese creates a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or any time you’re craving something filling and satisfying. It’s simple to make, and the best part is that everyone loves it!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Quick and Easy to Make: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal when you’re short on time.
Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of beef broth, heavy cream, and shredded cheese creates a rich, velvety sauce that coats every bite of pasta.
Comforting and Filling: With ground beef, pasta, and cheese, this dish is hearty enough to satisfy even the biggest appetites.
Family-Friendly: It’s a simple, delicious recipe that both kids and adults can enjoy. The creamy sauce and tender pasta make it a crowd-pleaser.
Versatile: You can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite seasonings, vegetables, or cheese to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups bowtie pasta (farfalle)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice)
1 tsp paprika (optional, for added flavor)

Instructions

1. Cook Ground Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess fat from the pan. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using) to taste.

2. Add Broth and Cream

Once the beef is browned, pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine the ingredients and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This will form the base of your creamy sauce.

3. Add Bowtie Pasta

Add the bowtie pasta to the skillet and stir to coat it with the creamy mixture. Bring the contents to a simmer, then cover the skillet with a lid. Let it cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

4. Add Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheese is fully melted, creating a creamy, cheesy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

5. Serve

Serve the creamy beef and bowtie pasta hot, garnished with extra shredded cheese or fresh parsley if desired. This dish pairs well with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approx. 550 kcal

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve

As a Main Course: This creamy beef and bowtie pasta is filling enough to be served on its own for dinner.
With a Side Salad: Pair the pasta with a fresh green salad to add a light contrast to the rich and creamy dish.
With Garlic Bread: For an extra indulgent meal, serve the pasta with garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add fresh parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and a pop of fresh flavor.
Add a Veggie Side Dish: Serve with steamed or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the pasta.

Additional Tips

Use Lean Ground Beef: For a lighter version, opt for lean ground beef or even ground turkey for a healthier alternative.
Swap the Cheese: Feel free to use other types of cheese like mozzarella, Parmesan, or a blend of cheeses to customize the flavor.
Add Vegetables: Boost the nutritional value by adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the dish. Simply sauté them with the onions and garlic.
Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce.
Leftovers: This dish makes great leftovers! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute milk for heavy cream, but the sauce may not be as rich and creamy. To thicken it, you could add a little flour or cornstarch.

3. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. It will still be delicious and comforting.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture and cook the pasta separately ahead of time. When ready to serve, combine everything and heat on the stove, adding the cheese at the end.

5. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
This dish can be frozen, but the pasta may become slightly softer when reheated. Store it in an airtight container for up to a month.

6. How do I make this dish vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, skip the ground beef and use plant-based protein crumbles. You can also add more vegetables to make it heartier.

7. Can I use homemade beef broth instead of store-bought?
Yes, homemade beef broth can add even more flavor to this dish. Just make sure it’s well-seasoned before adding it to the recipe.

8. How do I adjust the recipe for fewer servings?
To make a smaller portion, simply halve the ingredients. The cooking time should remain about the same, but keep an eye on the pasta while it cooks.

9. Can I add more cheese to make it cheesier?
Yes, feel free to add more cheese to taste! Extra cheese will make the dish even more indulgent and creamy.

10. How can I make this dish spicy?
Add red pepper flakes, chili powder, or hot sauce to give the dish an extra kick. Start with a small amount and adjust to your preferred heat level.

Conclusion

Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a quick, comforting, and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its rich, creamy sauce combined with hearty ground beef and tender pasta creates the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or serving it to guests, this dish is guaranteed to impress. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, you can create a delicious, filling meal in no time. Try it today and experience the creamy, cheesy goodness for yourself!