If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm, comforting hug in every bite, then this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Combining tender ground beef simmered in a luscious, creamy tomato sauce with perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of rich flavors and satisfying textures. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a laid-back weekend meal, this dish is simple to prepare yet indulgently delicious, guaranteed to bring smiles around your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, where each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the hearty ground beef to the silky creaminess of the sauce and the playful shapes of bowtie pasta, these essentials work together seamlessly to create a dish that’s both satisfying and visually inviting.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base that provides a rich, meaty flavor and satisfying protein.
- 1 onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when softened with garlic.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant punch that elevates the savory elements.
- 1 can diced tomatoes: Introduces a fresh, slightly tangy component that balances the creaminess.
- 1 cup beef broth: Enhances the meaty flavor and keeps the sauce perfectly moist.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the signature creamy texture that coats every bowtie perfectly.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that amplifies the savory notes and adds an aromatic layer.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and rounding out the dish’s bold flavors.
- 8 oz bowtie pasta: The star starch with its playful shape, perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce.
- Grated Parmesan cheese for topping: Adds a salty, nutty finish that brings the whole dish together.
How to Make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and adding your ground beef. Cook it until it’s beautifully browned, releasing those flavorful juices. This step builds your dish’s foundation, so make sure not to rush it—browning the meat properly adds depth and richness.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook them until the onion softens and turns translucent, filling your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma. This soft base melds beautifully with the beef, enhancing every bite.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Cream
Pour in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and heavy cream along with the Italian seasoning. Stir everything together, making sure the beef is evenly coated. This mix is where the magic starts to happen—the cream brings silkiness while the tomatoes add brightness, bathing the pasta in a luscious sauce.
Step 4: Simmer to Meld Flavors
Lower the heat and let your sauce gently simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. This slow cooking melds all the flavors into one harmonious blend, thickening the sauce just enough to cling beautifully to every bowtie.
Step 5: Cook the Bowtie Pasta
While your sauce is bubbling away, cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente so it holds its shape and offers that satisfying bite when paired with the creamy sauce.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Drain the pasta and either mix it right into the skillet of creamy beef sauce or serve the sauce ladled on top of the pasta. Finish each plate with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a salty, nutty crown on your Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe.
How to Serve Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Consider topping your dish with fresh chopped parsley or basil for a burst of color and a fresh herbal note. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick if you want to spice things up.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, balancing the creamy richness with refreshing crunch. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is another fantastic choice to mop up every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, plate the pasta in shallow bowls and garnish each serving with a single basil leaf or a Parmesan crisp. You could also bake the assembled dish with a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan on top for a bubbly, golden crust that adds texture and flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your creamy beef and bowtie pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a perfect make-ahead meal.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, too! Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, and it can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from breaking. Adding a splash of milk or broth during reheating helps restore the sauce’s luxurious creaminess, making it taste just as good as freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is perfect for holding the creamy sauce, penne, fusilli, or even rigatoni would work wonderfully as well. Just choose a shape that catches sauce well.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt to reduce fat content, though the sauce will be a bit less rich. Just adjust cooking times to prevent curdling.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes, the beef sauce can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. Just reheat it slowly before serving and toss with freshly cooked pasta for best results.
What type of ground beef is best?
Using 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) strikes a great balance, providing flavor without too much greasiness. You can use leaner options if you prefer, but adding a touch of olive oil during browning helps maintain moisture.
Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Definitely! Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can be sautéed with the onions and garlic for extra nutrients and flavor depth. Just adjust seasoning accordingly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dish like this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe—it’s easy to make but feels like a treat every time. Whether you serve it for family dinner or bring it to a potluck, it’s sure to be a hit. So grab those ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into a bowl of pure comfort and joy!
Print
Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This creamy beef and bowtie pasta recipe combines savory ground beef with a rich and velvety tomato-cream sauce, seasoned with Italian herbs. Paired with tender bowtie pasta and topped with Parmesan cheese, it’s a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Seasonings
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta and Garnish
- 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
- Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon for even cooking.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onion becomes translucent and soft, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to combine the flavors.
- Simmer sauce: Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Cook the pasta: While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Combine and serve: Serve the creamy beef sauce generously over the cooked bowtie pasta. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese to finish and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- For added veggies, consider mixing in chopped spinach or mushrooms when adding the onions and garlic.
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce, though it will be less rich.
- Leftover sauce freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.
- Adjust seasoning with additional Italian herbs or red pepper flakes for extra flavor or heat.
