This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a one-pan wonder thatβs perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need a comforting, hearty meal. The tender bowtie pasta, savory ground beef, and rich, cheesy sauce come together in a dish thatβs easy to prepare and impossible to resist.
Ingredients π
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Β½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Why Youβll Love This Dish
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes for a fuss-free dinner.
- Rich and Creamy: The blend of cheddar and Parmesan takes the sauce to another level.
- Family-Friendly: Perfect for kids and adults alike.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or spices for a personal twist.
How to Make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve Β½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Ground Beef
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Season with salt and pepper.
- Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside, leaving a small amount of grease in the pan.
3. SautΓ© the Onion and Garlic
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sautΓ© for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Create the Sauce
- Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream, letting the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Combine the Ingredients
- Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Add the cooked bowtie pasta and stir to coat in the sauce.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan, mixing until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Serving Suggestions
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce.
- Green Salad: A fresh side to balance the richness of the dish.
- Steamed Veggies: Broccoli or green beans make great accompaniments.
Tips for the Best Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese can result in a less creamy sauce due to added anti-caking agents.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Itβs perfect for loosening the sauce if it gets too thick.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or Italian seasoning for an herby twist.
- Make It Veggie-Friendly: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or diced bell peppers for extra nutrients.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce.
- Freezing Not Recommended: Cream-based sauces can separate when frozen and reheated.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a true comfort food classicβrich, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Whether youβre cooking for your family, friends, or just yourself, this dish is guaranteed to become a new favorite.
Try it tonight and let me know how it turns out! Share your photos and tips for making it your own. πβ¨