If you are craving a comforting yet indulgent dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles, then the Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish perfectly combines tender bowtie pasta with rich ground beef enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce, all enhanced by savory seasonings and melted cheeses. It’s a dinner that feels special but comes together with surprisingly simple ingredients, making it a go-to weeknight winner or a cozy weekend treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, whether it’s building flavor, creating that perfect creamy texture, or adding a pop of color that makes the dish as inviting as it tastes. Here’s what you’ll gather to bring this recipe to life.
- 12 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta: The fun shape holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully and adds a pleasing bite.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides hearty protein and a savory base that makes this dish so satisfying.
- 1 small onion (diced): Adds subtle sweetness and depth without overpowering.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Brings a fragrant warmth that elevates all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend that ties together the herbs for a classic, comforting taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of gentle spice.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Concentrated umami that enriches the sauce’s depth.
- 1 cup beef broth: Builds a savory liquid base to meld the ingredients together.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: The silky element that transforms this dish into a creamy comfort food classic.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tang and creaminess to balance the richness.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey goodness that hugs every pasta piece.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a salty, nutty finish that rounds out the flavors perfectly.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): A bright, fresh garnish to lift the dish visually and flavor-wise.
How to Make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to the package directions until al dente. This texture is key to ensure the pasta stays firm and doesn’t become mushy once stirred into the creamy sauce. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside, ready to soak up the flavors later.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onion
In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble in your ground beef along with the diced onion. Cook them together until the beef is browned and cooked through, which usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. This step is crucial since you want flavorful caramelization while softening the onion to gently sweeten the dish. If there’s excess grease, go ahead and drain it to keep the sauce from becoming too oily.
Step 3: Add Aromatics and Seasoning
Now toss in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. Cook and stir for about a minute, allowing the garlic to release its aroma and the tomato paste to toast lightly. This adds a savory punch that deepens the flavor base of your Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Then reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream and sour cream. Let the sauce simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens just slightly, turning silky and luscious, the perfect complement to the pasta and beef.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheeses
Add the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet, stirring gently to coat every piece with that irresistible sauce. Mix in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses until melted and blended, wrapping everything with creamy, cheesy goodness. This melty finish is a highlight of the Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe that keeps everyone going back for more.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley if you like, adding freshness and a lovely color contrast. Serve the pasta warm to enjoy the full comfort and richness of this fantastic dish.
How to Serve Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that perfectly balances the creaminess with a burst of green freshness. You can also try a light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. These finishing touches turn a simple plate into an inviting meal that looks as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
To round out the meal, think crisp green salads or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. Lightly dressed greens cut through the richness of the pasta, providing a refreshing contrast. Warm crusty bread or garlic bread is also an excellent companion, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls with a little extra cheese melted on top under a broiler until bubbly. Alternatively, try layering the creamy beef and pasta mixture in a baking dish, topping with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, then broiling for a crispy crust. These ideas elevate the familiar recipe, making it feel special for gatherings or celebrations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe leftovers to an airtight container and keep it refrigerated for up to three days. The flavors meld even more after resting, making the next-day meal just as delightful. Be sure to reheat gently to keep the creamy sauce smooth and luscious.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to prepare in advance. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Note that the cheese sauce might separate slightly when frozen, so a careful stir during reheating usually restores its creamy texture.
Reheating
Reheat the pasta on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Alternatively, microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between. Avoid high heat to prevent the sauce from curdling or drying out.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground beef with other meats?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or Italian sausage work wonderfully in this recipe, offering different flavor profiles but maintaining the hearty satisfaction of the dish.
Is it possible to add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, adding vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms during the last few minutes of cooking can boost the nutrition and add lovely colors and textures without overpowering the creamy sauce.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Bowtie pasta is ideal for holding the sauce, but feel free to substitute with penne, rotini, or shells. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure al dente texture.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick or too thin?
If the sauce thickens too much, stir in a little more beef broth or cream to loosen it. If it’s too thin, simmer it gently a bit longer to reduce and thicken naturally.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can swap heavy cream and sour cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and use dairy-free cheese alternatives. The texture might differ slightly, but the dish remains deliciously creamy.
Final Thoughts
The Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe is one of those go-to dishes that always brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table. Its combination of tender pasta, savory beef, and indulgent creamy sauce is genuinely irresistible and wonderfully simple to make. I hope you give this recipe a try soon and find it becoming a beloved family favorite, just like it is in my kitchen.
Print
Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta recipe is a comforting skillet dinner featuring tender ground beef, perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, and a luscious creamy sauce made with sour cream, heavy cream, and cheeses. Flavored with garlic, Italian seasoning, and a touch of tomato paste, this one-pan meal is both hearty and satisfying, perfect for a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta
Beef Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Brown the Beef and Onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and fully cooked and the onion is softened. Drain any excess grease from the skillet if needed.
- Add Seasonings and Tomato Paste: Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and tomato paste. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to evenly coat the beef and develop the flavors.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream and sour cream. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
- Combine Pasta with Sauce and Cheese: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and stir well to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy beef sauce. Mix in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses, stirring until they melt and blend into a smooth, cheesy sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the pasta if desired. Serve immediately while warm for a comforting and delicious meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage for the ground beef to vary the flavor.
- For additional vegetables, add fresh spinach or peas during the last few minutes of cooking the sauce.
