Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe

Looking for a weeknight dinner that checks all the boxes—hearty, cheesy, comforting, and fast? This Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta recipe is the one to save. It’s got that rich, meaty flavor you crave, the creamy cheese sauce that wraps around every bite, and the irresistible texture of perfectly cooked bowtie pasta. You can have it on the table in about 30 minutes, and the cleanup? Practically effortless. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just want a satisfying one-pot meal, this dish is guaranteed to earn a spot in your regular rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Family-Friendly: Done in under 30 minutes with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry and fridge.
• Satisfying and Comforting: Between the juicy ground beef and gooey melted cheese, this pasta brings serious comfort food vibes.
• One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes mean more time to relax. Everything cooks in a single skillet.
• Customizable: This dish is a great blank canvas for your favorite vegetables or seasonings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dish is all about simple, satisfying ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:

• Ground beef: The hearty base of the dish—go with lean beef for less grease, or use a fattier blend for extra flavor.
• Bowtie pasta: These cute little pasta shapes hold onto the sauce beautifully and give the dish its signature texture.
• Onion: Adds a sweet, savory depth to the beef as it cooks—don’t skip it!
• Garlic: Boosts flavor and pairs perfectly with the cheese and beef.
• Tomato paste: Gives a rich, concentrated tomato flavor that thickens the sauce.
• Beef broth: Helps cook the pasta right in the skillet and infuses everything with savory goodness.
• Heavy cream: Makes the sauce ultra-creamy and balances the acidity of the tomato.
• Cheddar cheese: For that gooey, melty, cheesy pull—use sharp cheddar for bolder flavor.
• Italian seasoning: A pinch adds a herby kick that ties all the ingredients together.
• Salt and pepper: Season to taste and bring everything to life.

Variations

Feel like switching it up? Here are some tasty twists:

• Add Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to boost the nutrition.
• Make it Spicy: Stir in red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce.
• Different Cheese: Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a smoky gouda.
• Swap the Protein: Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles also work great.

How to Make Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and no longer pink. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks.

Step 2: Add the Aromatics

Stir in the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Mix in the tomato paste and Italian seasoning, stirring to coat the meat evenly. Let it cook for a minute to deepen the flavor.

Step 4: Add Pasta and Broth

Pour in the beef broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the uncooked bowtie pasta, cover, and let it cook until the pasta is tender, about 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Make It Creamy and Cheesy

Once the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and mix until everything is melted and creamy.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot and gooey!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use freshly grated cheese: It melts more smoothly and gives the sauce a richer texture than pre-shredded.
• Watch the liquid level: Add a splash more broth if the pasta looks too dry before it’s fully cooked.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente is perfect—soft with a bit of bite.
• Finish with a sprinkle of cheese on top: For that picture-perfect, cheesy finish.

How to Serve

This dish stands tall on its own, but here are a few pairing ideas to round out your meal:

Garnishes:

Top with chopped parsley or fresh basil for a pop of color and freshness.

Side Dishes:

Serve with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for balance.

Comfort Food Style:

Scoop it into a bowl and cozy up on the couch—this is comfort food at its finest.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully!

Freezing

Freeze in individual portions for quick weeknight dinners. Let it cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Warm on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of cream or broth, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, rotini, or shells all work well. Just keep an eye on cooking time—different shapes cook at different rates.

Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
Yes! Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even Greek yogurt, and use ground turkey instead of beef.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
You bet—just use plant-based ground meat or extra veggies and vegetable broth. It’s still creamy, hearty, and satisfying.

What cheese works best for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar is a classic, but you can experiment with blends—mozzarella for stretch, gouda for smokiness, or even a touch of parmesan for depth.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is everything a comforting dinner should be—simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor. It’s a reliable go-to that’s easy enough for any weeknight, yet cozy enough to feel like a treat. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes one of your most requested dishes!

Print