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Craving a creamy, savory pasta dish that’s packed with flavor? This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is the perfect choice. It’s rich, cheesy, and comforting—a meal that will make everyone at the table feel satisfied. With tender beef, melty cheese, and bowtie pasta coated in a creamy sauce, it’s a dish that brings all the warmth and flavor you need, whether for a busy weekday or a relaxing weekend dinner.
What You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious dish. Be sure to use fresh ingredients to get the best flavor!
Ingredients:
- 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
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a hearty, creamy dish ready in no time.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions—usually about 8–10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Don’t forget to reserve a bit of the pasta water; it can help adjust the sauce later if needed.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes, or until it softens and becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring often to prevent burning. The aroma will fill your kitchen, and that’s when you know you’re on the right track!
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Once the beef is cooked, drain off any excess fat.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Now it’s time to build that creamy sauce. Pour in the beef broth and bring it to a simmer, letting the flavors combine. After simmering for a few minutes, lower the heat and add the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and paprika. Stir everything together until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens into a smooth, velvety consistency.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet with the creamy beef sauce. Stir gently, making sure each piece of pasta gets coated with the rich sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Feel free to add a bit more paprika for an extra pop of flavor if you like a little heat.
Step 5: Serve
Once the pasta is fully coated and the sauce is creamy and luscious, serve it up hot. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color and a burst of freshness. Ready to enjoy!
Tips for the Best Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta
To make sure your dish turns out perfectly every time, check out these helpful tips:
1. Use Fresh Garlic and Onion
These ingredients are key to developing the base flavor for your sauce. They bring out a savory aroma that makes the sauce even richer and more flavorful.
2. Adjust the Sauce Consistency
If the sauce becomes too thick as it simmers, simply add some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. The starchy water will help adjust the texture without drying it out.
3. Try Different Cheeses
While cheddar and Parmesan are classic choices, feel free to get creative! Add some cream cheese for extra richness or experiment with a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for an ultra-melty, gooey sauce.
4. Add Veggies for Extra Flavor
If you’d like to boost the nutritional value or just add more texture, throw in some spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers while cooking the onion and garlic. These veggies will complement the creamy sauce perfectly.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Here’s a quick look at what you’re getting in each serving of this creamy beef and bowtie pasta:
- Calories: ~640 kcal
- Carbs: ~40g
- Protein: ~31g
- Fat: ~40g
- Fiber: ~2g
It’s a hearty, filling meal perfect for when you need something comforting, but be mindful of the calorie count if you’re keeping an eye on your intake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta isn’t just another pasta dish—it’s pure comfort food. With its rich, cheesy sauce and tender beef, this meal hits all the right notes. The addition of paprika gives it a subtle smokiness, while the cheddar and Parmesan create a creamy, indulgent texture. Plus, it only takes about 30 minutes to prepare, making it the perfect option for busy nights when you still want something satisfying.
Whether you’re feeding a family or cooking for one, this dish will leave everyone with full bellies and happy hearts.
Ready to Dig In?
The next time you’re craving something rich and comforting, give this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta a try. It’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. Pair it with your favorite side dishes, and you’ve got a complete meal.
Don’t forget to share your thoughts with us—how did your pasta turn out? We’d love to hear about any fun twists you added to the recipe. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy masterpiece!