Cozy, rich, and utterly satisfying, Creamy Ground Beef and Bowtie Pasta is one of those weeknight wonders that folks can’t help but request again and again. Imagine springy bowtie noodles cloaked in a velvety sauce studded with browned ground beef and gooey cheese, with a hint of Italian herbs and a touch of garlic wafting through the air. This dish delivers all the comfort of a home-cooked meal, but with minimal fuss and maximum reward. Trust me—this is the kind of recipe that turns a hectic day into a delicious memory around your table.

Creamy Ground Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Part of the magic here is how every ingredient gets its chance to shine, building unbeatable flavor and a lush, dreamy texture. From the hearty beef to the creamy blanket of cheese, each bit matters and brings something special to your bowl!

Bowtie (farfalle) pasta (12 ounces): These whimsical shapes hold onto just the right amount of sauce in every bite.
Ground beef (1 pound): Adds deep, savory flavor and protein to the dish—it’s a crowd-pleasing classic.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Gives the beef a lovely sear and keeps the onions from sticking.
Small onion, chopped: Lends sweetness and subtle bite to balance the richness of the sauce.
Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Infuses each mouthful with comforting aromatic warmth.
Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A ready-made spice blend that instantly ups the Italian flair.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Brings every flavor into sharper focus.
Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds just a touch of heat and depth.
Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): Boosts the sauce with body and a concentrated tang.
Beef broth (1 cup): Develops richness and gives the sauce a silky texture.
Heavy cream (1 cup): Transforms the sauce into something luxuriously smooth and indulgent.
Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Adds bold, nutty, and slightly salty undertones.
Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): For meltiness and that irresistible cheese pull.
Chopped parsley (optional): A fresh, bright finish that wakes up every bite.

How to Make Creamy Ground Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta

Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil and cook your bowtie pasta as the package suggests—you want it just al dente, so it stays perfectly chewy after tossing with the sauce. Once done, drain well and set aside. Those bowties are going to soak up every bit of creamy goodness in just a few minutes!

Step 2: Brown the Beef and Sauté the Aromatics

While your pasta gets cozy, grab a deep skillet and heat the olive oil over medium-high. Crumble in the ground beef and cook, stirring and breaking it up, until it’s browned and starting to crisp around the edges—about 5 to 7 minutes. Then, stir in the chopped onion and let it soften for another few minutes. When you add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, you’ll notice that classic irresistible aroma that means something delicious is on the way.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

With the beef and aromatics cozied together, stir in the tomato paste so it coats everything in a rich, tangy layer. Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the mixture gently simmer for about 5 minutes, just until it thickens a touch and smells incredible. Then, stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella so the cheese melts right into the sauce, making it luscious and so inviting.

Step 4: Combine with Pasta

Now it’s time for the magic moment: Add the drained bowtie pasta straight into the skillet with the sauce. Give everything a good toss so every bowtie is happily coated in all that creamy, cheesy sauce. Let it simmer for 1 or 2 minutes, just to meld the flavors together with the pasta. This final simmer completes your Creamy Ground Beef and Bowtie Pasta masterpiece!

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Turn off the heat and, if you like, shower the top with bright green parsley for a pop of color. Serve the pasta piping hot—everyone will want seconds, so make sure the serving spoon is ready!

How to Serve Creamy Ground Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Garnishes

Scatter a bit of chopped parsley or even some extra Parmesan right on top for an eye-catching finish. A drizzle of good quality olive oil or a few grinds of fresh black pepper can make your Creamy Ground Beef and Bowtie Pasta feel restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

This pasta really shines alongside a crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette to cut the richness. Rustic bread or garlicky breadsticks are perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce—trust me, you won’t want to leave a drop behind.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests, try spooning portions into mini casserole dishes and giving them a quick broil for that golden cheese cap. Or serve the Creamy Ground Beef and Bowtie Pasta family-style from your largest, prettiest serving bowl—it’s perfect for sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Creamy Ground Beef and Bowtie Pasta cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. It’ll keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days, making dreamy lunches or a quick dinner reheated in minutes.

Freezing

I’ve found this dish freezes well, though the sauce may thicken slightly on thawing. Transfer cooled portions to freezer-safe containers, leaving a bit of space for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months, and defrost in the fridge overnight for best results.

Reheating

For the creamiest texture, reheat Creamy Ground Beef and Bowtie Pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream if the sauce seems too thick, and stir until hot and smooth again. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I substitute another type Main Course

Absolutely! Feel free to use penne, rotini, or any short pasta you love—just keep an eye on the cooking time, so it stays perfectly al dente and holds all the creamy sauce.

Is it possible to lighten up the recipe?

If you’re hoping to cut some richness, try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or swap in ground turkey for ground beef. The classic Creamy Ground Beef and Bowtie Pasta flavor will still shine!

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Stir in spinach, peas, or sautéed mushrooms during the last few minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrition. They pair beautifully with the creamy, beefy sauce.

What cheese can I use if I don’t have mozzarella?

No mozzarella? No problem. Try Monterey Jack or provolone, or add extra Parmesan for a saltier, sharper bite. The Creamy Ground Beef and Bowtie Pasta will still melt hearts (and cheese!).

How do I make this dish spicy?

A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce stirred in with the seasonings will give your Creamy Ground Beef and Bowtie Pasta just the right amount of heat to liven up dinner.

Final Thoughts

Cozy, comforting, and incredibly satisfying, Creamy Ground Beef and Bowtie Pasta is the kind of recipe you’ll turn to again and again. It’s easy enough for busy nights but comforting enough for special ones, too. Give it a try and watch everyone at your table light up with delight!

Creamy Ground Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 16 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a comforting and satisfying meal with this Creamy Ground Beef and Bowtie Pasta recipe. Tender pasta coated in a rich and creamy sauce with savory ground beef, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

12 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta

Ground Beef Mixture:

1 pound ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Boil the bowtie pasta in salted water, drain, and set aside.
Prepare Ground Beef Mixture: Brown ground beef in olive oil with onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Add Flavors: Stir in tomato paste, beef broth, and heavy cream. Simmer until slightly thickened.
Cheesy Finish: Melt Parmesan and mozzarella cheese into the sauce.
Combine and Serve: Toss cooked pasta in the sauce, simmer briefly, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.