Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe

Looking for a rich, satisfying, and easy-to-make pasta dish? This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta recipe is the ultimate comfort food! With tender ground beef, perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, and a velvety cream sauce, this dish is a guaranteed family favorite. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal, this hearty pasta dish will leave everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients:

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340g) bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• 4 cups water
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Beef Mixture:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon flour (for thickening)

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese

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, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

1. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and sauté until soft (about 2-3 minutes).
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
4. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
5. Season with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
6. Drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in 1 tablespoon of flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Slowly pour in the beef broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
4. Add the heavy cream, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste.
5. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Beef

1. Add the cooked beef back into the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce.
2. Gradually mix in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, allowing them to melt into the sauce.
3. Add the cooked pasta and stir everything together until well coated.
4. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Remove from heat and let it sit for a minute.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
3. Serve hot and enjoy!

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Mushroom Addition: Sauté mushrooms with the onions for added flavor.
• Tomato Twist: Stir in a can of diced tomatoes for a tangy touch.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Add cheddar cheese for a richer, cheesier dish.
• Healthier Version: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.

Cooking Note

• Be sure to drain excess grease from the beef to prevent the sauce from becoming too oily.
• Stir the sauce frequently to avoid sticking or burning.
• If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of milk or pasta water to thin it out.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls.
• Pair with a fresh garden salad for a well-balanced meal.
• Enjoy with a glass of red wine for a sophisticated dinner.
• Top with crispy fried onions for extra crunch.

Helpful Tips

• Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother, creamier sauce.
• Don’t overcook the pasta—al dente pasta holds up better in creamy sauces.
• For extra flavor, toast the spices for 30 seconds before adding the beef.
• Make it ahead! This pasta reheats well; just add a little milk when reheating.

Related Recipes :

• Bang Bang Chicken Pasta Recipe
• Sausage Spinach Pasta Recipe
• Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta

FAQs

Q1: Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes! Penne, rotini, or fusilli work great as substitutes for bowtie pasta.

Q2: How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q3: Can I freeze this pasta?

Yes! Let it cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Q4: What’s the best way to reheat it?

Reheat in a pan over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creaminess.

Q5: Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and replace the flour with cornstarch for thickening.

Conclusion

This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a delicious, hearty meal that’s easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights. With its rich, velvety sauce and savory beef, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you follow the classic recipe or try one of the tasty variations, you’ll love every bite! Enjoy your homemade creamy beef pasta and share it with loved ones! 🍝✨

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