Creamy Beef & Bowtie Pasta

If you love quick weeknight dinners that taste like they came straight out of a cozy kitchen, this Creamy Beef & Bowtie Pasta is about to become a new favorite. With tender farfalle pasta, savory ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, it’s comfort food the whole family will ask for again and again.

I grew up on dishes like this—easy, hearty meals that feed a crowd without breaking the bank. The smell when it’s simmering on the stove? Absolutely incredible!! Anything but boring!

Why You’ll Love Creamy Beef & Bowtie Pasta

• ⏱️ Weeknight-friendly – Ready in about 30 minutes.
• 🧀 Cheesy & creamy – That sauce clings perfectly to every bowtie.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-approved – A hearty dish both kids and adults love.
• 💵 Budget-conscious – Uses pantry staples and stretches a pound of beef.
• 🍴 Versatile – Great with add-ins like mushrooms, spinach, or peppers.

Ingredients You’ll Need 🛒

• 1 lb ground beef – 80/20 for flavor, or leaner if you prefer.
• 8 oz bowtie pasta (about 3½ cups dry) – Farfalle holds sauce beautifully.
• 1 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing.
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes.
• 1 cup beef broth.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning.
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for depth).
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version).
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese.
• Salt & pepper to taste.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish).

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups & spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook pasta – Boil bowtie pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook beef – In a large skillet, heat olive oil. Add onion and cook until soft. Stir in garlic, then add beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
3. Build the sauce – Add diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5 minutes.
4. Make it creamy – Stir in heavy cream and mozzarella cheese. Let sauce thicken slightly.
5. Combine – Add cooked bowtie pasta and toss until coated in creamy sauce.
6. Serve – Garnish with fresh parsley and extra cheese if desired.

Serving Suggestions

• With a side of garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks.
• Alongside a fresh green salad for balance.
• Paired with roasted veggies like zucchini or broccoli.
• With a glass of red wine for a comforting date-night dinner.

Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Store in airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Reheat: Warm gently on stove with a splash of cream or broth.
• Freezer: Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in fridge before reheating.

Nutritional Info (per serving, approx. 6 servings)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 22g
• Carbs: 35g
• Fat: 22g