Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Need a quick, comforting dinner that the whole family will love? This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is packed with tender ground beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, cheesy cream sauce. It’s a one-pan meal that’s easy, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights!

🛒 Ingredients for Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

🥩 For the Pasta Dish

• 1 lb ground beef
• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, adds smoky depth)

🥛 For the Creamy Sauce

• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (adds color & umami)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)

🌿 Optional Add-Ins

• 1 cup spinach or kale (for a veggie boost)
• Red pepper flakes (for heat)
• Mushrooms or bell peppers (for extra texture & flavor)

🍽️ Substitutions for Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

• Dairy-free? Use plant-based cream & cheese.
• No beef? Swap with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat.
• Gluten-free? Use GF bowtie pasta or penne.

👩‍🍳 How to Make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

1️⃣ Brown the Beef

1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
3. Add ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks.
4. Season with salt, pepper, garlic, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Cook until browned.

2️⃣ Build the Sauce

1. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
2. Pour in beef broth and heavy cream, and bring to a simmer.

3️⃣ Add the Pasta

1. Stir in uncooked bowtie pasta.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce is thickened.

4️⃣ Add the Cheesy Finish

1. Stir in cheddar, Parmesan, and cream cheese until melted and smooth.
2. Fold in spinach or any optional add-ins and cook for another 2–3 minutes until wilted.

5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy

Spoon into bowls, top with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley, and enjoy warm!

✅ Recipe Tips for the Best Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

• Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother, creamier sauce.
• Don’t overcook the pasta—al dente is best.
• Add more broth or cream if the sauce becomes too thick.

🥶 Storage Instructions for Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Gently warm on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth or milk.
• Freeze? Yes! Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw and reheat gently.

🔄 Recipe Variations for Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

• Spicy Kick: Add sriracha, chili flakes, or pepper jack cheese.
• Tomato Lover’s Twist: Stir in ½ cup marinara sauce.
• Bacon & Beef: Mix in crispy chopped bacon for added smokiness.
• One-Pot Lasagna Style: Add ricotta cheese dollops and top with extra mozzarella.

❓ FAQs About Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Can I use pre-cooked pasta?

Yes, reduce liquid by ½ cup and add pasta after the sauce thickens.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! It reheats beautifully with a little added liquid to restore creaminess.

What’s the best cheese combo for this recipe?

Cheddar + Parmesan gives richness and sharpness, but mozzarella works great for a gooey finish.