Introduction to Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta
Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a delightful, comfort food-inspired dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. This one-pot wonder combines tender ground beef, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta (farfalle) for a satisfying and flavorful meal that the whole family will love. The creamy sauce, infused with garlic and Italian seasoning, takes this dish to new levels of deliciousness, while the bowtie pasta provides a fun and unique texture. Whether you’re craving a hearty, pasta-based dinner or simply looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing recipe, Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is sure to hit the spot.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta
To make this delectable Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta, you’ll need a few simple, high-quality ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef – The foundation of the dish, providing protein and savory flavor.
- 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle) – A fun, bite-sized pasta shape that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
- ½ medium onion, diced – Adds depth of flavor and aroma to the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for creating a fragrant, flavorful sauce.
- 3 cups beef broth – Provides the liquid base for the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Gives the sauce its rich, velvety texture.
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into the sauce for a delightfully cheesy finish.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – Enhances the dish with a blend of aromatic herbs.
- 1 tsp paprika – Adds a touch of warmth and color to the sauce.
- Salt and black pepper to taste – For seasoning to your preferred taste.
- Fresh parsley for garnish – Provides a vibrant, fresh finish to the dish.
Using high-quality, fresh ingredients is key to ensuring the best possible flavor and texture in this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation
Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta:
Brown Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the diced onion until the beef is browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease, if needed.
Add Garlic & Seasonings
Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Add Liquids & Pasta
Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Add the uncooked bowtie pasta and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Simmer
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Add Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and the sauce is creamy.
Serve
Garnish the Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta with fresh parsley and serve hot, straight from the skillet. Enjoy this comforting, one-pot wonder!

Tips for Perfecting Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta
To ensure your Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease in the finished dish.
- Don’t overcook the pasta – keep an eye on it during the simmering step to avoid mushy noodles.
- Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding more broth or cream if it becomes too thick.
- Customize the flavors by experimenting with different herbs, spices, or cheeses.
- Serve with a fresh, green salad or garlic bread for a complete, balanced meal.
Nutritional Information and Benefits
Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a hearty, comforting dish that also packs a nutritional punch. Each serving contains:
- Protein from the ground beef, providing essential amino acids to support muscle health and growth.
- Calcium from the cheddar cheese, promoting strong bones and teeth.
- Complex carbohydrates from the bowtie pasta, offering sustained energy and fiber for digestive health.
- Vitamins and minerals from the onions, garlic, and parsley, contributing to overall wellness.
By incorporating lean protein, whole grains, and nutrient-dense vegetables, this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta dish can be part of a balanced, nutritious diet. Enjoy it as a satisfying main course or pair it with a fresh salad for a complete, family-friendly meal.
Variations and Related Recipes
While the Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta recipe is delicious as-is, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs:
Variations
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef for a leaner protein option.
- Add chopped spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for extra vegetables.
- Use a different type of cheese, such as Parmesan or mozzarella, in place of cheddar.
Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of bowtie for this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use a different type of pasta in this recipe! While bowtie pasta (farfalle) is a great choice due to its shape and texture, you can substitute it with other pasta types such as penne, fusilli, or even rotini. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of pasta you choose, so be sure to check the package instructions for the appropriate cooking time.
How can I make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta healthier?
To make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta healthier, consider using leaner cuts of beef, such as ground turkey or chicken, which contain less fat. You can also increase the vegetable content by adding spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli to the dish. Additionally, substituting heavy cream with a lighter alternative like Greek yogurt or reduced-fat cream can help lower the calorie count while still providing a creamy texture.
Can I freeze Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta, and how should I do it?
Yes, you can freeze Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta! To do this, allow the dish to cool completely after cooking. Then, portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. Label the containers with the date, and store them in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the pasta overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or cream if needed to restore creaminess.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick after cooking?
If your sauce becomes too thick after cooking, you can easily adjust it by adding a bit of liquid. Start by adding a small amount of beef broth, milk, or even water, and stir well until you reach your desired consistency. Be sure to add the liquid gradually to avoid making the sauce too runny. If you find it necessary, you can also adjust the seasoning after adding liquid to maintain the flavor balance.
Conclusion
Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a comforting, one-pot wonder that’s sure to become a new family favorite. With its rich, creamy sauce, tender ground beef, and delightful bowtie pasta, this dish delivers on flavor and satisfaction. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is a winner. Give it a try and experience the irresistible combination of flavors and textures that make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta such a delight. Bon appétit!
Looking for more visual inspiration? Follow me on Pinterest, where I share new recipes, dinner tips, and behind-the-scenes kitchen moments every week. Buon appetito!
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Discover the Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe You’ll Love!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a delightful, comfort food-inspired dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. This one-pot wonder combines tender ground beef, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta (farfalle) for a satisfying and flavorful meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounce bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1/2 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the diced onion until the beef is browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease, if needed.
2. Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant.
3. Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Add the uncooked bowtie pasta and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and the sauce is creamy.
6. Garnish the Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta with fresh parsley and serve hot, straight from the skillet. Enjoy this comforting, one-pot wonder!
Notes
Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease in the finished dish.
Don’t overcook the pasta – keep an eye on it during the simmering step to avoid mushy noodles.
Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding more broth or cream if it becomes too thick.
Customize the flavors by experimenting with different herbs, spices, or cheeses.
Serve with a fresh, green salad or garlic bread for a complete, balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg