Creamy Beef Bowtie Pasta Recipe

Creamy Beef Bowtie Pasta Recipe: A Cozy Homemade Delight

Weeknight dinners demand quick, delicious solutions that satisfy hungry families fast.

This creamy beef bowtie pasta recipe delivers comfort and flavor in one skillet.

Tender bowtie pasta twirls perfectly with seasoned ground beef, creating a mouthwatering meal everyone will love.

Rich, velvety sauce coats each pasta piece with savory goodness.

Packed with simple ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes, this dish brings restaurant-quality taste to your kitchen.

No complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients stand between you and a delectable dinner.

Prepare to be amazed by how easily gourmet comfort food comes together.

Creamy Beef Bowtie Pasta – Favorite Features

  • Whip up a delightful meal that brings everyone together with minimal cooking skills required.
  • Customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping beef for chicken to suit different tastes.
  • Minimize kitchen cleanup with a single-pan cooking method that saves time and reduces dish washing.
  • Enjoy a creamy, rich pasta dish packed with savory beef and aromatic spices that'll have everyone asking for seconds.

Beef Bowtie Pasta – Ingredient Rundown

Main Ingredients:
  • Bowtie Pasta: A fun, bow-shaped pasta that holds sauce beautifully and provides a delightful texture to the dish.
  • Ground Beef: A hearty protein that adds rich flavor and substance to the creamy pasta recipe.
  • Heavy Cream: Creates a luxurious, smooth base for the sauce and adds richness to the dish.
Aromatics and Seasonings:
  • Onion, Garlic: Provide a deep, savory foundation of flavor that enhances the overall taste of the pasta.
  • Salt, Black Pepper, Paprika: Classic seasonings that add depth and warmth to the beef and sauce.
Sauce and Finishing Ingredients:
  • Tomatoes, Beef Broth: Create a flavorful liquid base for the sauce that adds moisture and complexity to the dish.
  • Cheese: Melts into the sauce, adding creaminess and a tangy flavor profile.
  • Fresh Parsley: A bright, fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and a light herbal note to the finished dish.

Kitchen Tools for Bowtie Pasta Night

  • Large Pot: Essential for boiling pasta perfectly.
  • Colander: Needed to drain pasta after cooking.
  • Large Skillet: Perfect for sautĂ©ing aromatics and cooking beef.
  • Wooden Spoon: Great for stirring and mixing ingredients.
  • Measuring Cups/Spoons: Helps measure ingredients accurately.
  • Sharp Knife: Used for chopping onions and garlic.
  • Cheese Grater: Optional for freshly grated cheese.

Cooking Creamy Beef Bowtie Pasta

Step 1: Boil Pasta

Get a large pot of water boiling.

Drop in the bowtie pasta and cook until it reaches that perfect tender-but-firm texture.

Once done, drain the water and set the pasta aside, ready for its flavor adventure.

Step 2: Awaken the Aromatics

Grab a skillet and pour in some olive oil.

Toss in finely chopped onions and minced garlic.

Let them dance and sizzle until they become soft and fragrant, releasing their delightful aroma throughout the kitchen.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Introduce ground beef to the skillet.

Break it up with a wooden spoon and let it sear until it turns a beautiful golden brown.

Make sure to drain any extra fat to keep the dish light and delicious.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Time to create magic!

Pour in:
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Beef broth
  • Paprika
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Let everything simmer and mingle, allowing the flavors to develop and intensify for 5-10 minutes.

Step 5: Embrace Creaminess

Stir in heavy cream and your favorite shredded cheese.

Watch as they melt together, creating a luxuriously smooth and rich sauce that hugs every ingredient.

Step 6: Unite Pasta and Sauce

Combine the cooked bowtie pasta with the creamy beef sauce.

Gently toss until every pasta piece is perfectly coated.

Let it warm through for a few more minutes.

Step 7: Serve with Flair

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Serve hot and enjoy your delectable creamy beef bowtie pasta!

Creamy Beef Bowtie Pasta – Tips & Tricks

  • Boil pasta just until al dente to prevent mushiness and maintain a satisfying bite.
  • Drain excess beef fat completely to reduce greasiness and create a cleaner, more refined sauce.
  • Remove sauce from heat before adding cream and cheese to prevent curdling and ensure a smooth, silky consistency.
  • Let the sauce simmer longer to intensify tomato and spice flavors, creating a more robust dish.
  • Swap ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner protein option, or use plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version.

Try New Creamy Beef Bowtie Pasta Styles

  • Gluten-Free Pasta Swap: Replace bowtie pasta with gluten-free chickpea or rice pasta for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Vegetarian Protein Variation: Substitute ground beef with crumbled plant-based meat or lentils for a meat-free version.
  • Dairy-Free Cream Alternative: Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of regular cream, and nutritional yeast in place of cheese.
  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Version: Replace pasta with riced cauliflower or spiralized zucchini noodles to reduce carbohydrate content.

How to Serve Beef Bowtie Pasta Right

  • Family Dinner Star: Serve this creamy beef bowtie pasta as a hearty main dish that'll make everyone at the table smile, perfect for weeknight gatherings.
  • Gourmet Side Kick: Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread to elevate the meal and add fresh, crunchy textures that complement the rich pasta.
  • Leftover Magic: Store extra portions in airtight containers for quick lunches, reheating gently with a splash of extra cream to restore creamy consistency.
  • Make-Ahead Marvel: Prepare the sauce and beef mixture in advance, refrigerate, and combine with freshly cooked pasta just before serving to save time during busy evenings.

Keeping Beef Bowtie Pasta Fresh

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Cool completely before storing to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Transfer pasta to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air, seal securely, and freeze for up to 2 months. Label with date and contents.
  • Place pasta in microwave-safe dish, sprinkle few tablespoons water to prevent drying. Cover with microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

  • Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute bowtie pasta with penne, rigatoni, or rotini. Choose a pasta shape that holds sauce well.

  • Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This pasta dish reheats nicely and can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Just add a splash of broth when reheating to maintain creaminess.

  • Can I make this recipe with ground turkey instead of beef?

Definitely! Ground turkey is a lean alternative that works perfectly in this recipe. Just ensure it’s fully cooked through before adding other ingredients.

  • What can I do if the sauce is too thick?

Simply add a little more broth or pasta water to thin it out. Start with small amounts and stir until you reach your desired consistency.

Print
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Creamy Beef Bowtie Pasta Recipe

Creamy Beef Bowtie Pasta Recipe


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4.9 from 25 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Hearty beef bowtie pasta delights home cooks with rich, comforting flavors from classic Italian cuisine. Creamy sauce and tender meat combine in a simple weeknight meal that satisfies hungry families.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (454 g) ground beef
  • 12 ounces (340 g) bowtie pasta
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces/411 g) diced tomatoes

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Dairy and Seasoning:

  • 1 cup (240 ml) beef broth
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook pasta until perfectly tender, approximately 8-9 minutes. Strain and reserve.
  2. In a spacious skillet, warm olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant, roughly 3-4 minutes.
  3. Introduce ground beef to the skillet, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook thoroughly until deep brown and no pink remains, about 6-7 minutes. Carefully drain any accumulated fat.
  4. Pour crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and seasonings into the meat mixture. Allow to simmer gently, developing rich flavors for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Reduce heat to low and incorporate heavy cream and grated cheese. Stir continuously until sauce transforms into a velvety, uniform consistency, approximately 2-3 minutes.
  6. Fold cooked pasta into the creamy sauce, ensuring each bowtie is lavishly coated. Continue heating for an additional 2 minutes to meld flavors completely.
  7. Transfer to serving dishes and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately while piping hot for optimal taste and texture.

Notes

  • Choose whole wheat bowtie pasta for added fiber and a nutty flavor, perfect for health-conscious eaters.
  • Swap ground beef with lean ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter, lower-fat alternative.
  • Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Opt for lactose-free cream and cheese to accommodate dairy-free dietary needs.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 570
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 650 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 50 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Clara Thompson

Clara Thompson

Recipe Developer & Food Educator

Expertise

Plant-based and vegetarian recipe development, Nutritional analysis and meal planning, Culinary education and workshop facilitation, Content writing with a focus on healthy living​

Education

Diploma in Culinary Arts, Mt. San Jacinto College, CA
Focus: Comprehensive culinary training with an emphasis on sustainable cooking practices.

Certificate in Nutrition and Healthy Living, Cornell University (Online Program)
Focus: Understanding the principles of nutrition to create balanced and health-conscious recipes.


Clara lives where fresh ideas and fresh ingredients meet. She pairs her culinary know-how with her passion for healthy, planet-friendly cooking.
For Clara, good food should taste great, nourish your body, and feel easy to make. Her recipes highlight whole foods, colorful produce, and a deep respect for seasonal eating.

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