Looking for a hearty, creamy pasta dish that combines savory beef, melty cheese, and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta? This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is the answer. It’s quick, satisfying, and sure to please everyone at the table.
With a rich, flavorful sauce and tender beef, this dish brings all the comfort you need, whether it’s for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
What You’ll Need: Ingredients for a Delicious Pasta Dish
Gather the following ingredients before you start cooking, and you’ll have everything you need to create this delicious meal:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz bowtie pasta (also called 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)
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s walk through the process of making this mouthwatering creamy beef pasta.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8–10 minutes.
Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. It’s always good to keep a little pasta water on hand, just in case you need to adjust the sauce later.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the diced onion and cook until it softens and becomes translucent, which should take about 3–4 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent it from burning. This will release the fragrant, savory aroma that forms the base of your sauce.
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat from the pan.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
With your beef ready, it’s time to make the creamy sauce. Pour in the beef broth and bring it to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Once the broth has simmered for a few minutes, reduce the heat and add the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, and paprika. Stir everything together until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens into a smooth, velvety consistency.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet with the creamy beef sauce. Stir gently to coat the pasta in the creamy mixture, making sure every piece is covered in that delicious sauce.
Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. You can add a pinch more paprika here if you like a little extra kick, or adjust the seasoning based on your personal preference.
Step 5: Serve
Once the pasta is fully coated and the sauce is nice and creamy, it’s time to serve! Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Making the Best Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta
Here are some helpful tips to make sure your pasta dish turns out perfectly every time:
1. Use Fresh Garlic and Onion
Fresh garlic and onion are key to building flavor in this dish. They bring out that aromatic base that’s essential for creating a rich and savory sauce.
2. Adjust the Sauce Consistency
If the sauce gets too thick while simmering, simply add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. The starch from the pasta water will help thicken the sauce without making it too dry.
3. Cheese Variations
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese! While cheddar and Parmesan work wonderfully, you can also add some cream cheese for extra richness or try a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a more melty, gooey result.
4. Add Vegetables for Extra Flavor
Want to add a healthy twist to your dish? Toss in some spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers while cooking the onion and garlic. They’ll add both flavor and texture to your meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown for each serving of this creamy beef and bowtie pasta:
- Calories: ~640 kcal
- Carbohydrates: ~40g
- Protein: ~31g
- Fat: ~40g
- Fiber: ~2g
This dish is rich and filling, perfect for a hearty meal, but be mindful of the calorie content if you’re watching your intake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is everything you want in a comfort dish. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, thanks to the combination of ground beef, rich cheese, and savory spices. The best part? It comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a quick and easy option for busy nights when you still want something delicious.
The paprika gives it a hint of smokiness, the cheddar and Parmesan make the sauce ultra-creamy, and the beef adds the perfect savory bite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or cooking for yourself, this dish will leave everyone satisfied.
Ready to Dig In?
Give this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta a try next time you’re craving something rich and comforting. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion. Don’t forget to share your results with us—what variations did you try? Let us know in the comments below!
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy masterpiece!
