Creamy Beef And Bowtie Pasta Recipe

Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe: A Comfort Food Dream

Weeknight dinners demand quick, satisfying meals that burst with flavor and comfort.

This creamy beef and bowtie pasta delivers rich, hearty goodness in every single bite.

Tender beef mingles with perfectly cooked pasta, creating a delightful harmony of textures and tastes.

Smooth, velvety sauce coats each bowtie noodle, promising a truly indulgent experience.

Packed with savory notes and simple ingredients, this recipe comes together faster than you can imagine.

Home cooks will love how effortlessly this dish transforms basic pantry staples into a memorable meal.

One forkful, and you’ll be hooked on this irresistible pasta masterpiece.

Why Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Satisfies

  • Crowd-Pleasing Party Starter: Packed with vibrant flavors and colorful ingredients, this Mexican corn dip becomes an instant hit at gatherings, transforming any casual get-together into a festive celebration.
  • Super Quick Assembly: Requiring just a few simple steps and minimal preparation, anyone can create this delicious dip in minutes without complicated cooking techniques or special skills.
  • Versatile Snack Companion: Perfect for game days, potlucks, or afternoon munching, this dip pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, crackers, and fresh vegetable sticks, offering multiple serving options.
  • Flavor Explosion Guaranteed: Combining zesty Rotel, sweet corn, tangy cheese, and fresh herbs, this recipe delivers a mouthwatering blend of textures and tastes that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Everything for Creamy Beef Bowtie Pasta

Main Ingredients:
  • Ground Beef: A hearty protein that forms the base of this rich and satisfying pasta dish.
  • Bowtie Pasta: A fun pasta shape that holds the creamy sauce perfectly.
  • Heavy Cream: Provides a luxurious and smooth texture to the sauce.
  • Beef Broth: Adds depth of flavor and helps cook the pasta.
Aromatics and Seasonings:
  • Onion, Garlic: These classic aromatics build a flavor foundation for the dish.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste.
  • Paprika: Adds a subtle warmth and depth to the meat.
Finishing Ingredients:
  • Shredded Cheese: Melts into the sauce, creating a creamy and indulgent finish.
  • Fresh Parsley: An optional garnish that adds a fresh, bright touch to the dish.

Cooking Steps for Cheesy Beef Bowtie Pasta

Step 1: Brown Beef and Aromatics

In a spacious skillet over medium heat, sizzle ground beef with diced onions and minced garlic. Cook until the meat turns golden brown and onions become translucent.

Break up the beef into small crumbles while cooking. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish light and flavorful.

Ingredients:
  • Ground beef
  • Onions
  • Garlic
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Paprika (optional)

Step 2: Create Creamy Liquid Base

Pour beef broth and heavy cream into the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir everything together until the liquids are well combined and start to shimmer.

This creates a rich, velvety foundation for your pasta dish.

Ingredients:
  • Beef broth
  • Heavy cream

Step 3: Cook Bowtie Pasta

Add bowtie pasta directly into the skillet.

Gently stir to ensure pasta is coated with the creamy liquid. Cover the skillet and let it simmer, stirring occasionally.

Cook until pasta reaches al dente texture and most liquid is absorbed, typically 10-12 minutes.

Ingredients:
  • Bowtie pasta

Step 4: Melt Cheese and Finish

Reduce heat to low.

Sprinkle shredded cheese over the pasta and stir until completely melted, creating a luxurious, silky sauce. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed for perfect flavor balance.

Ingredients:
  • Shredded cheese

Step 5: Plate and Garnish

Transfer the creamy beef and bowtie pasta to serving plates. Optional: Sprinkle extra cheese or freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and additional flavor.

Notes for Creamy Bowtie Pasta Lovers

  • Opt for ground beef with lower fat content to reduce greasiness and create a healthier dish without sacrificing flavor.
  • Stir frequently during cooking to ensure bowtie pasta doesn't clump together and cooks evenly in the creamy sauce.
  • Remove skillet from heat before adding cheese to prevent breaking and achieve a smooth, silky texture that coats every pasta piece.
  • Swap heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese alternatives for a lactose-intolerant friendly version that maintains the recipe's rich, creamy essence.
  • Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of Italian herbs to elevate the depth and complexity of the beef and pasta mixture.

Creative Mixes for Beef Bowtie Pasta Fans

  • Vegetarian Pasta Delight: Swap ground beef with plant-based crumbles or roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a meat-free version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bowtie pasta or replace with quinoa pasta to make the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Spicy Mexican-Style Pasta: Add diced jalapeños, taco seasoning, and top with crushed tortilla chips for a zesty southwestern flavor profile.
  • Lighter Cream Alternative: Replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt or cauliflower puree to reduce calories and create a healthier sauce base.

Pairings for Creamy Beef Bowtie Pasta

  • Boldly Pair with Red Wine: Choose a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Merlot to complement the rich, creamy beef pasta. The wine's acidity cuts through the dish's richness while enhancing the meat's savory flavors.
  • Toss a Fresh Side Salad: Prepare a crisp green salad with light vinaigrette to balance the pasta's heavy texture. Arugula or mixed greens with a zesty lemon dressing will provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy dish.
  • Serve with Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread makes the perfect accompaniment to soak up the delicious cheese sauce. Its crispy exterior and soft interior will add delightful texture to the meal.

Storing Pasta for Dinner Next Time

  • Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool the pasta completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Pack cooled pasta in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
  • Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish, add a splash of beef broth or milk to restore moisture. Cover and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until heated through.

FAQs

  • Is this a one-pan recipe?

Yes, the entire meal is cooked in a single skillet, making cleanup quick and easy.

  • Can I use a different type of pasta?

Bowtie pasta works best, but you can substitute with similar short pasta like penne or rotini that absorb sauce well.

  • How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use lean ground beef, low-fat cheese, and add extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to increase nutritional value.

  • What cheese works best for this recipe?

Shredded cheddar or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella create the most creamy and flavorful sauce.

Print
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Creamy Beef And Bowtie Pasta Recipe

Creamy Beef And Bowtie Pasta Recipe


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4.7 from 11 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Creamy beef and bowtie pasta delivers comfort in every forkful, blending hearty ground beef with silky sauce and tender pasta. Pasta enthusiasts will savor this quick, satisfying meal that brings warmth and richness to your dinner table.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 1 pound (1 lb) ground beef

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 1/2 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Pasta and Dairy:

  • 2 cups bowtie pasta (farfalle)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Broth and Seasonings:

  • 3 cups beef broth
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon (1 tsp) paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a spacious skillet heated to medium, brown ground beef with finely chopped onions and crushed garlic until meat is thoroughly cooked and onions become translucent, approximately 6-7 minutes.
  2. Drain accumulated fat from the skillet, then season the beef mixture with salt, pepper, and optional paprika for enhanced flavor profile.
  3. Pour beef broth and heavy cream into the skillet, creating a rich liquid base, and stir thoroughly to integrate ingredients smoothly.
  4. Add bowtie pasta directly into the liquid mixture, ensuring each pasta piece is submerged, and bring the contents to a gentle simmer.
  5. Reduce heat, cover the skillet, and allow pasta to cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring intermittently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  6. Once pasta reaches al dente texture and most liquid is absorbed, lower the heat to its minimum setting.
  7. Gradually incorporate shredded cheese, stirring continuously until completely melted and sauce transforms into a luxuriously smooth consistency.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, ensuring balanced flavors throughout the dish.
  9. Transfer to serving plates immediately while hot, optionally garnishing with additional cheese or freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant presentation.

Notes

  • Choose lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and create a lighter dish.
  • Try whole wheat bowtie pasta for added fiber and nutrition.
  • Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half for a lower-calorie alternative.
  • Customize the recipe by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 630 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 680 mg
  • Fat: 38 g
  • Saturated Fat: 18 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 36 g
  • Cholesterol: 130 mg
Jess Martinez

Jess Martinez

Contributing Recipe Writer & Nutrition Consultant

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cooking, Nutritional analysis and healthy recipe planning, Cultural food traditions, Modifying traditional dishes for better health

Education

Santa Fe Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Focused on mastering the flavors and cooking methods of traditional Southwestern cuisine.


Jess’s love for bold, homegrown flavors led her straight into the world of Southwestern cooking and cultural nutrition.
After completing her Certificate in Culinary Arts at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to show that good-for-you food can still taste incredible.
At saltytart.com, Jess shares vibrant, health-conscious recipes with roots in tradition but a fresh, modern twist. When she’s not testing new recipes, you’ll find her at local growers’ markets, tending her herb garden, or digging into food history books.

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