Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a comfort food classic! It’s rich, hearty, and comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights. Tender bowtie pasta is coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce with seasoned ground beef, making it a guaranteed family favorite. Serve it with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal!

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes!
✔ Creamy & Cheesy – A rich, velvety sauce coats every bite.
✔ Family-Friendly – A guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even for picky eaters!
✔ One-Pan Option – Can be made in a single skillet for easy cleanup.

Ingredients for Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon flour (for thickening)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or deep pan
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Colander for draining pasta

How to Make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned.
2. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened (about 2 minutes).
3. Stir in Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Push the beef to one side of the skillet.
2. Melt butter in the empty space, then whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
3. Slowly pour in beef broth, stirring constantly.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and let simmer for 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
2. Add the cooked pasta and mix well, coating each piece with the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

1. Remove from heat and let sit for 2 minutes to thicken.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra cheese, if desired.
3. Serve warm with garlic bread or a side salad!

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a simple green salad for a well-balanced meal.
• Serve with garlic bread or breadsticks to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!

Tips for the Best Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Use Freshly Grated Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Cook it al dente so it holds up in the sauce.
Make it Lighter – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or swap in Greek yogurt.
Make it Spicier – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
• Freeze: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use a different pasta shape?
A: Yes! Penne, rotini, or fusilli all work well in this recipe.

Q2: Can I make this dish in one pan?
A: Yes! Cook the pasta directly in the skillet by adding an extra 1 ½ cups of broth and letting it simmer until tender.

Q3: What can I substitute for heavy cream?
A: Try half-and-half, evaporated milk, or a mix of milk and cream cheese for a similar texture.

Conclusion: A Comfort Food Classic!

This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is the ultimate easy, comforting dinner. The rich, cheesy sauce combined with tender pasta and flavorful beef makes every bite irresistible. Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or cozy family dinners!

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Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 520 | Protein: 28g | Carbohydrates: 45g | Fat: 26g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 650mg

Enjoy every creamy, delicious bite!

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