Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta: A Comfort Food Classic

This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta recipe combines tender, perfectly cooked farfalle with a rich, velvety beef sauce that's brimming with flavor. It's the ultimate weeknight dinner—quick, easy, and guaranteed to satisfy the whole family.

Whether you're juggling a busy schedule or simply craving something warm and indulgent, this recipe checks all the boxes. Made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, it’s a one-pan wonder that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad, and you’ve got a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into the delicious details!

- Ingredients

12 oz (340 g) bowtie pasta (farfalle)

1 tbsp olive oil

1 lb (450 g) ground beef

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1 tsp Italian seasoning

1/2 tsp paprika (optional)

1 cup (240 ml) beef broth

1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream

1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup (120 g) shredded mozzarella cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

- Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Remove excess grease if necessary.

Add Onion and Garlic

Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the onion is softened.

Season the Mixture

Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Stir to combine.

Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, then add the heavy cream. Let it cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Combine with Cheese

Stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.

Mix with Pasta

Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet, tossing until well coated in the creamy beef sauce.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes for extra flavor.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a crowd-pleasing dish that's perfect for any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to a quick meal for busy weeknights. With its creamy sauce, savory beef, and tender pasta, it’s a recipe that combines simplicity with indulgence. The best part? It’s so easy to customize—add your favorite vegetables, switch up the protein, or experiment with different cheeses to make it your own.

Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and enjoy the comforting flavors that will have everyone coming back for more. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below!

FAQ

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to maintain the creamy consistency.

2. Can I freeze Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta?

Absolutely! Let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stovetop with a bit of additional liquid to restore the sauce’s texture.

3. What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half, whole milk, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream. Keep in mind that substitutions may slightly alter the flavor and thickness of the sauce.

4. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Definitely! While bowtie pasta works perfectly, you can substitute it with penne, rotini, or any short pasta you prefer.

5. How can I make this recipe healthier?

For a lighter version, use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a light cooking cream. You can also add more vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for a nutrient boost.

Let me know if you'd like more sections or edits!

Enjoy your comforting, creamy bowl of pasta!