Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta
If you’re craving a creamy, savory pasta dish, this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a perfect choice. With tender ground beef, silky cream sauce, and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, this dish is a quick and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Bowtie pasta (farfalle) isn’t just visually appealing—it also does a fantastic job of catching every drop of the creamy sauce. The hearty beef balances the dish beautifully, making it a complete and filling meal that doesn’t require any fancy ingredients.
This recipe is incredibly versatile and easy to whip up on even the busiest nights. Pair it with a fresh side salad or some crusty garlic bread, and you’ve got a dinner that feels both cozy and elegant. It’s also easy to adjust to suit your personal preferences, whether you’re feeding picky eaters or experimenting with new flavors.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a last-minute get-together, this creamy pasta recipe will always hit the mark. Let’s dive into the simple steps to make this indulgent, comforting dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and Comforting: A rich, velvety sauce that wraps around every bite.
- Simple Ingredients: You likely have everything you need in your kitchen already.
- Family-Friendly: It’s mild, flavorful, and sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Perfect Pairings
This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta pairs wonderfully with:
- A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette to contrast the creamy sauce.
- Garlic bread or breadsticks for dipping into the sauce.
- Steamed green beans or asparagus for a nutritious side.
Tips for Success
- Cook the pasta just until al dente so it doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- Grate the Parmesan fresh for the best flavor and texture.
- If the sauce thickens too much, stir in a splash of beef broth or cream to loosen it up.
Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz about 3 cups bowtie pasta farfalle
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the PastaBring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Beef MixtureIn a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess grease. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Season and SimmerStir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Add the heavy cream and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Combine with PastaAdd the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and allow it to melt into the sauce. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Garnish and ServeSprinkle with chopped parsley and serve warm. Pair with your favorite sides for a complete meal!
Alternatives and Variations
- Protein Alternatives: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef, or even use Italian sausage for a flavorful twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Use sautéed mushrooms and spinach instead of ground beef, and substitute vegetable broth for beef broth.
- Extra Veggies: Add cooked peas, broccoli florets, or roasted red peppers for added color and nutrition.
- Cheesy Twist: Stir in shredded mozzarella or a dollop of cream cheese for an even richer sauce.
Fun fact!
Did you know that bow tie pasta, or farfalle, gets its name from the Italian word for “butterflies”? According to The Pioneer Woman, this pasta shape dates back to the 1500s in Northern Italy!
Common Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of cream to refresh the sauce.
Can I freeze this dish?
You can freeze this pasta for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture.
Enjoy making this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta—simple, hearty, and absolutely delicious! Let me know how yours turns out!
