Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
If you adore easy, cozy dinners that taste like a big, comforting hug, you’re going to fall in love with Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta. This irresistible one-pan meal combines tender farfalle pasta, hearty ground beef, and a dreamy, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce—all in under 30 minutes! It’s the kind of dish the whole family will ask for on repeat, and it’s just as perfect for a busy weeknight as it is for a relaxed supper with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this dish so fantastic is how every ingredient has a purpose, coming together for that ultimate creamy, savory bite. Even though each component is simple, they play important roles in the flavor, texture, and look of Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta.
- Bowtie Pasta: Farfalle gives each forkful a fun shape and holds on to the sauce beautifully.
- Olive Oil: Just a touch helps brown the beef and gets the flavor-building started.
- Ground Beef: Provides richness and that essential, satisfying bite.
- Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce as it softens.
- Garlic: Brings a fragrant, savory edge you don’t want to skip.
- Italian Seasoning: Lifts everything with warm, herby notes—think oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Salt: Essential for balancing flavors throughout the dish.
- Black Pepper: Gives gentle heat and rounds out the seasoning.
- All-Purpose Flour: Thickens the sauce so it lightly clings to every noodle.
- Beef Broth: Adds depth and extra beefy flavor to the sauce.
- Heavy Cream: The star for creating that luscious, velvety texture.
- Parmesan Cheese: Gives a salty, nutty punch to the final sauce.
- Frozen Peas (optional): For a pop of color and a slight sweetness that complements the rich sauce.
- Chopped Parsley (optional): Adds brightness and a pretty finishing touch.
How to Make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your bowtie pasta and cook it until just al dente—the perfect chew is key for Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta! Drain the pasta and set it aside while you get the rest of your magic started.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
While your pasta cooks, warm the olive oil in a big skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up as it cooks, letting it brown really well. Browning adds so much flavor, so don’t rush it! This is also a great time to salt and pepper the beef just a little.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Now, in go the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for a few minutes until the onion looks soft and the kitchen smells irresistible! Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to enhance every bite.
Step 4: Make the Sauce Base
Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture. This part is easy: mix it in well so all the beef is coated—think of it like giving your sauce a boost! Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to keep things smooth and lump-free.
Step 5: Finish with Cream and Cheese
Pour in the heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens just enough to coat the back of a spoon. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and the peas, if you’re adding them—the sauce will become extra silky and colorful right before your eyes.
Step 6: Toss Everything Together
Finally, add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. Every little piece of pasta should get cloaked in that creamy, cheesy sauce. Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley if you’d like, and dig in while it’s piping hot!
How to Serve Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta
Garnishes
For a fresh burst and a pretty touch, chopped parsley works wonders on Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta. You can also sprinkle on a bit more grated Parmesan for extra cheesy goodness or add a dash of crushed red pepper if you love a little heat.
Side Dishes
This pasta is so satisfying on its own, but it’s also fantastic with a crisp green salad or some roasted broccoli to round out your meal. A side of warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of that creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try spooning the pasta into shallow bowls and topping each serving with a sprinkle of parsley and Parmesan for a restaurant-style look. For a fun family night, serve Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta straight from the skillet at the table—it’s both rustic and inviting! You can also pack it into thermoses for a comforting lunch on the go.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta, simply transfer it to an airtight container and pop it into the fridge. It keeps beautifully for up to three days, making lunchtime absolutely delicious and fuss-free.
Freezing
This pasta can be frozen if you want to plan ahead! Allow the dish to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It will keep in the freezer for up to two months; just note the sauce may separate slightly upon thawing but will still taste fantastic with a quick stir.
Reheating
To reheat, simply use the microwave or a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce, and stir occasionally until it’s warmed through and creamy again. Avoid high heat to prevent curdling.
FAQs
Can I substitute the beef for another protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken make great lighter swaps, and even plant-based meat alternatives work well for vegetarian versions.
Is Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta good for meal prep?
Yes, it’s a meal-prepper’s dream! The recipe reheats nicely, so you can portion it out and enjoy a comforting meal all week long.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
You sure can. While bowtie pasta is charming and holds the sauce perfectly, penne, rotini, or shells are all tasty alternatives for Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta.
What veggies can I add in?
Feel free to toss in extras like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Just sauté them with the onion and garlic for best results.
How do I make it spicier?
If you enjoy a little kick, simply add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce, or stir in a touch of hot sauce near the end of cooking.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to experience just how comforting, flavorful, and easy Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta really is. Whether you’re serving it to family or sharing with friends, it’s a dish that’s guaranteed to have everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try—you might just find your next favorite weeknight staple!
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Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this creamy and comforting Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta dish that combines tender ground beef with a rich Parmesan cream sauce, served over perfectly cooked bowtie pasta.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil bowtie pasta until al dente, then drain.
- Prepare the sauce: Brown ground beef, onion, and garlic. Season, add flour, broth, cream, and cheese. Simmer until thickened.
- Combine: Add peas and cooked pasta to the sauce. Toss to coat.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and enjoy!
Notes
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Enhance with mushrooms or spinach if desired.
- Leftovers can be reheated for a delicious lunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
