Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe

There’s something irresistible about a big skillet of Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta bubbling away in the kitchen—rich, hearty, and loaded with flavor, it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone running to the table. With tender farfalle noodles, savory ground beef, and a velvety sauce wrapping everything together, this comforting dish sits at the crossroads of easy weeknight dinner and crowd-pleasing favorite. If you love pasta that’s creamy, cheesy, and downright satisfying, you’ll adore this recipe.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta only needs a handful of everyday ingredients, each adding something special—be it a touch of richness, a pop of color, or a savory punch. Keeping things simple lets every flavor shine in every bite.

• Bowtie pasta (farfalle): These whimsical noodles hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully and bring a playful look to your plate.
• Olive oil: Just a drizzle creates a fragrant base and keeps everything from sticking to your skillet.
• Ground beef: Juicy and protein-packed, it gives the dish its robust, meaty heart.
• Onion: Diced small, it melts into the sauce for subtle sweetness and depth.
• Garlic: A must for classic Italian flavor—don’t skip this aromatic wonder!
• Italian seasoning: This easy blend packs instant herby flavor without digging into your spice rack.
• Salt: Balances and enhances every other ingredient.
• Black pepper: Adds gentle heat and a savory edge.
• Diced tomatoes (drained): These bring brightness, color, and a hint of tang to the sauce.
• Tomato sauce: For body, smoothness, and rich tomato flavor.
• Heavy cream: This is what makes your pasta luscious and comforting—don’t hold back!
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Salty, nutty, and ready to melt into the sauce for an irresistible finish.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: For gooey goodness that pulls everything together—literally.
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional): The perfect garnish to add a pop of color and fresh flavor on top.

How to Make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package directions until just al dente—this gives you that perfect tender-but-firm bite. Don’t overcook it since the pasta will get another quick simmer with the sauce. Drain and set aside, ready to meet all the creamy, beefy goodness.

Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onion

Grab your largest skillet and heat the olive oil over medium. Toss in your ground beef and diced onion. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking up the beef as you go, until the meat is well browned and the onions turn soft and golden. This duo lays down the savory foundation for your Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta.

Step 3: Amp Up the Flavor

Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir and let everything cook for just a minute until the garlic’s fragrance fills your kitchen—this tiny step packs the dish with classic Italian flair.

Step 4: Build the Tomato Base

Pour in the drained diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This not only melds all the flavors but also thickens the sauce just enough to coat your pasta beautifully.

Step 5: Make It Creamy and Cheesy

Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Give it a minute to marry together into a smooth, creamy sauce. Next, return your cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet along with a shower of shredded mozzarella cheese. Toss everything well so the cheese melts, the pasta soaks up the sauce, and every gorgeous bowtie is glazed in creamy, cheesy bliss.

Step 6: Simmer and Serve

Let the pasta and sauce bubble together for another 2–3 minutes to heat through. This is just enough time for the flavors to meld and that mozzarella to achieve ultimate meltiness. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley, if you like, and serve your Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta while it’s warm and comforting.

How to Serve Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic, but don’t be afraid to get creative! Extra grated Parmesan, a crack of black pepper, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can take your Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta from weeknight cozy to dinner-party stunning. If you love a pop of color, scatter a few halved cherry tomatoes or a handful of baby spinach leaves on top just before serving.

Side Dishes

Pair your bowl of Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta with a crisp green salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette for brightness and crunch. Garlic bread is always a hit, mopping up every last bit of that creamy sauce. For a lighter touch, try some steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans—they’ll balance the richness of the pasta and round out your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For family-style dining, pile the pasta high in a big, shallow serving dish and let everyone help themselves. If you’re feeling fancy, serve individual portions in wide, flat bowls and swirl the noodles for a bistro-worthy presentation. Hosting a casual get-together? Serve Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in mini ramekins or mugs for fun, personalized helpings. Don’t forget a generous spoonful of sauce and a flourish of fresh herbs on each!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers are a gift—just pop any extra Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors become even richer, making tomorrow’s lunch something to look forward to. Just be sure to store the pasta and sauce together so everything stays moist and tender.

Freezing

If you want to freeze your Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta, let it cool fully before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor. While the cream sauce may separate a little, a gentle stir while reheating will bring it back together.

Reheating

Warm your pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back the silky texture. You can also microwave individual portions in short bursts, stirring in between to make sure everything heats evenly. Just take your time so the sauce stays lush and creamy, not dry.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of pasta?

Absolutely! While bowtie pasta holds the creamy sauce particularly well, you can easily swap in penne, rotini, or even rigatoni. Just choose a shape with ridges or curves to catch all that flavorful sauce.

Is it possible to lighten up Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta?

You sure can! Switching out the ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken still delivers hearty flavor, and using half-and-half instead of heavy cream will cut down the richness a bit. Feel free to add extra veggies too.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Skip the meat and substitute with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to add body and flavor. You’ll still have all the creaminess from the sauce, and the veggies soak it up beautifully!

What’s the best way to add more veggies?

Toss in a few handfuls of fresh spinach or sliced mushrooms at the same time you’re adding the tomatoes. These cook down quickly and add both nutrients and delicious texture to your Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta.

Does this recipe work for meal prep?

Yes! Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta reheats wonderfully and is super satisfying for lunches all week. Store in single-serve containers and reheat with a splash of milk whenever you’re hungry.

Final Thoughts

If you’re dreaming of a satisfying, quick, and utterly delicious dinner, look no further than Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta. With its dreamy sauce, hearty meat, and just the right amount of gooey cheese, it’s bound to win hearts every time you make it. Give it a try—there’s no better way to bring a little extra joy and comfort to your kitchen table!

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