If you are craving a comforting, rich dish that feels like a big, warm hug, you have to try this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe. It combines tender bowtie pasta with savory ground beef, all enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce that’s bursting with cheesy goodness and a hint of Italian seasoning. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress family with minimal effort, this recipe brings together simple ingredients to transform into a satisfying plate of pure joy. Once you make it, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds and sharing the love with friends and loved ones.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are the heart and soul of the dish, each playing a special role to deliver creamy, flavorful, and perfectly textured pasta. From the ground beef adding savory depth to the cheeses providing gooey meltiness, every component is essential yet easy to find.
- 12 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta: The perfect pasta shape that holds sauce beautifully and adds a fun bite.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides rich protein and a hearty base for the creamy sauce.
- 1 small onion (diced): Adds sweetness and aromatic flavor to balance the beef.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Brings a warm, fragrant punch enhancing every bite.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that transports this dish to classic Italian flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances and amplifies the flavors throughout.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle spice and complexity.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Gives a slight tang and deeper umami in the sauce.
- 1 cup beef broth: Adds savory liquid to create the perfect base for the sauce.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Delivers that luxurious, silky texture for the creaminess we all love.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Brings tang and smoothness to lighten the richness just enough.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides gooey meltiness and a mild flavor that never disappoints.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty finish enhancing the cheesy notes.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A fresh, colorful touch to brighten the dish visually and taste-wise.
How to Make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling salted water and cooking the bowtie pasta until it’s perfectly al dente. This means it’s tender but still has a little bite, which is essential to hold up against the rich sauce later. Once cooked, drain it well and set aside to await its flavorful partner.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onion
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef together with the diced onion. This step is critical as it develops a depth of flavor, and you want the beef cooked through and the onion softened and slightly caramelized for sweetness. If there’s extra grease, go ahead and drain it for a cleaner sauce.
Step 3: Add Seasonings and Tomato Paste
Now stir in the minced garlic along with the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. Cook for about a minute while stirring to coat the mixture evenly. This infuses the dish with that classic, robust Italian flavor profile and turns the beef a lovely rich color.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the beef broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. This liquid base will carry the flavors perfectly. Lower the heat and add the heavy cream and sour cream. Let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes so it thickens slightly, turning silky and luscious.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese
Add the cooked bowtie pasta straight into the skillet, stirring to thoroughly coat every piece with the creamy beef mixture. Then, sprinkle in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and the sauce is irresistibly creamy. This step is pure magic as the cheese melts into the sauce, binding the dish together.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve the dish piping hot and watch as everyone digs in with genuine smiles.
How to Serve Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic topper that brings contrast to the creamy textures and rich flavors. You can also add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to spice things up.
Side Dishes
A simple green salad with vinaigrette or steamed roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus pair beautifully, balancing the richness with fresh, crisp bites. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls also complement the dish perfectly, soaking up every last bit of those delicious creamy sauce drips.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish straight from the skillet in the middle of the table for a family-style experience, or plate it elegantly with a sprinkle of extra cheese and herbs. For entertaining, mini ramekins with individual servings garnished with edible flowers make it special and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making reheated portions just as delicious as freshly made.
Freezing
You can freeze this pasta dish for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Note that the texture of the cream sauce might change slightly but will remain tasty.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. Stir well to evenly warm and bring back that freshly made feel.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a wonderful leaner alternative that works perfectly in the Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe. It just might need a bit less cooking time and a touch more seasoning to keep flavor vibrant.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing and reheating?
Yes, this pasta dish freezes well. Just be aware that the sauce may separate a little upon thawing but reheating slowly and stirring in a bit of fresh cream or broth will bring it back to creamy perfection.
What can I add to make this dish more veggie-packed?
Great question! Toss in fresh spinach, peas, or mushrooms during the last few minutes of simmering the sauce. They add color, texture, and nutrition without overpowering the creamy, rich flavors.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can modify it using dairy-free cream and cheese substitutes, plus skip the Parmesan or use a vegan version. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will change, but it’s a good option for lactose intolerant guests.
What wine pairs well with Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe?
A medium-bodied red like a Merlot or a smooth Chianti makes a great match. They complement the beefiness and creamy cheese without overpowering the dish.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe that turns a simple dinner into a celebration of comfort and flavor. It’s accessible, satisfying, and lovingly tasty—a recipe you’ll want to keep in your rotation forever. Give it a try, share it with those you love, and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite together!
Print
Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and creamy beef and bowtie pasta skillet dish, featuring ground beef simmered with Italian seasoning and tomato paste, combined with a luscious blend of heavy cream, sour cream, and cheeses. Perfect for a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Liquids and Dairy
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Brown the Beef and Onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef and diced onion. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
- Build the Flavor Base: Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and tomato paste to the skillet. Stir well and cook for about 1 minute to allow the flavors to blend.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and sour cream. Let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet. Stir thoroughly to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Mix in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses, continuing to stir until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes creamy and well combined.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve warm for a delicious, satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage for the beef for a different flavor.
- For extra veggies, add spinach or peas during the final minutes of cooking to incorporate freshness and nutrition.
