Name: Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; ½ cup medium onion, diced; 2 teaspoons minced garlic; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon paprika; 3 cups beef broth; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; 3 cups bowtie pasta (farfalle), dry measurement; Fresh parsley, chopped; Additional shredded cheddar cheese

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 90 reviews

If you’ve been on the hunt for a comforting crowd-pleaser that comes together in just 30 minutes, this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Imagine tender bowtie pasta swimming in a rich, velvety cream sauce loaded with savory browned ground beef and gooey melted cheddar cheese—a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that satisfy every craving. It’s warm, hearty, and so simple, making it a fantastic go-to dinner for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

In the center, a white pot with blue handles holds a mix of raw ground meat in a reddish-pink color on top, chopped white onions below, and a small pile of minced yellow garlic on the side. Surrounding the pot on a wooden board are several glass bowls and containers: one with light yellow bowtie pasta, another with a dark brown liquid, and a smaller one filled with bright orange shredded cheese. There is also a small clear bowl containing dark red powdered spice, next to salt and pepper shakers with metallic lids. The scene is set on a white marbled surface with a gray and white striped cloth nearby. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

What makes this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe sparkle is how few ingredients it calls for, yet how brilliantly each one plays its part. From the robust flavor of the lean ground beef to the creamy indulgence of heavy whipping cream, every ingredient brings its unique character to the dish.

1 pound lean ground beef: Provides hearty protein and a savory base that’s beautifully browned for depth of flavor.
½ cup medium onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and a bit of texture to the beef mixture.
2 teaspoons minced garlic: Gives a wonderful aromatic kick that wakes up the whole dish.
Salt to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
Pepper to taste: Adds a gentle heat and balances the creaminess.
1 teaspoon paprika: A hint of smoky warmth that gives an inviting color and flavor boost.
3 cups beef broth: The liquid that cooks the pasta and infuses it with rich, meaty goodness.
1 cup heavy whipping cream: Brings the irresistible creamy texture everyone loves.
3 cups bowtie pasta, dry measurement: The charming shape holds sauce well and creates satisfying bites.
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts delightfully into the finished dish, providing sharp and gooey cheesy notes.
Garnish: fresh parsley and more cheese (optional): Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor to complete the presentation.

How to Make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Aromatics

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat to brown your ground beef. Add the diced onions and minced garlic to the beef so they soften and release their sweetness alongside the meat. Stir constantly to crumble the beef evenly, cooking until there’s no pink left. Season everything with salt, pepper, and paprika to bring out deep, savory layers that form the flavor foundation of our dish.

Step 2: Add Liquids and Pasta

Once your beef mixture smells irresistible, pour in the beef broth and heavy whipping cream. This combination creates a luscious, creamy sauce base you’ll fall in love with. Now, toss in the dry bowtie pasta right into the skillet. The pasta will cook gently in this flavorful liquid, soaking up all that goodness.

Step 3: Simmer and Cook Pasta

Bring the skillet contents to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and let the pasta cook for 10 to 12 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to keep the bowties from sticking to the bottom and to ensure even cooking. You’ll notice the pasta swelling and absorbing most of the liquid, resulting in a creamy sauce that clings to every bowtie.

Step 4: Finish with Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. This final step is pure magic, as the cheese melts into the sauce adding stringy, melty cheesiness all through the dish. Mix until just combined, then take off the heat and start thinking about plating your masterpiece.

How to Serve Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a creamy pasta dish in a white pot with pale bowtie pasta covered in a light orange creamy sauce. Minced brown meat pieces are mixed evenly throughout the sauce and pasta. Small bright green parsley leaves are sprinkled on top, adding a fresh color contrast. The pot is placed on a white marbled surface with a gray and white striped cloth nearby. The sauce has a smooth and slightly frothy texture around the edges. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To brighten up your bowl, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top. Its vibrant green color adds visual appeal and a fresh burst that perfectly cuts through the richness of the creamy beef and cheese. You can also add a little extra shredded cheddar for those who want more cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes

This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe stands well on its own, but pairing it with a simple crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans balances the meal wonderfully. A slice of crusty bread can also be a great addition to soak up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests or add a little flair, serve the pasta in individual ramekins topped with a broiled cheese crust for a delightful textural twist. Alternatively, layering it in a deep casserole dish and sprinkling extra cheese on top before baking makes for a fun family-style serving option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The creamy sauce thickens as it chills, so give it a good stir and gently reheat when ready to eat. It’s best consumed within 3 to 4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep. Portion the creamy beef and bowtie pasta into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for even reheating results.

Reheating

Reheat in a saucepan over low to medium heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if it’s too thick. Stir gently until warmed through and creamy again, taking care not to overcook the pasta to avoid mushiness.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta in the Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe?

Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is perfect for holding the sauce, you can swap it for penne, rotini, or even shells—just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, just use your favorite gluten-free pasta. The cooking time might vary slightly, so keep an eye on the pasta as it simmers.

Can I substitute the heavy whipping cream for something lighter?

You can try half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce, but keep in mind the sauce may not be as thick or rich. Adding a small amount of cream cheese can help boost creaminess.

Is ground beef the only meat option?

Not at all. Ground turkey or chicken can work as leaner alternatives, though beef adds a richer flavor. If you want more texture, try adding cooked sausage crumbles.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

You can prep the beef and onion mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for a day. Just add pasta, broth, and cream and finish cooking when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe truly brings comfort food to a whole new level with its effortless preparation and irresistibly rich flavors. Whether you’re cooking for your family or serving friends, this dish promises to become a beloved standby in your kitchen. So, grab your skillet and enjoy the magic of creamy, cheesy, hearty goodness all in one pot!