If you’re dreaming of a comforting weeknight dinner that’s as impressive as it is easy, look no further than Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta. This dish brings together tender pasta, hearty ground beef, and a luscious sauce that’s velvety with cream and brightened with tomatoes. It’s the sort of meal that warms the soul, fills the kitchen with mouthwatering aromas, and somehow manages to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or treating yourself to a cozy solo dinner, Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is the definition of a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how a few basic ingredients can come together to create something so rich and satisfying. Each item in this recipe plays its part perfectly, contributing to the flavor, texture, and color of the final dish.
- Ground beef: The star of the show, bringing savory depth and protein to the sauce.
- Onion: Diced onion adds sweetness and a touch of earthy flavor that balances the richness.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with irresistible aroma and complexity.
- Diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes lend brightness and a gentle acidity that lifts the whole dish.
- Beef broth: A splash of beef broth intensifies the meaty taste and helps create a silky sauce.
- Heavy cream: This is your ticket to a luxurious, creamy texture that’s simply dreamy.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs adds a classic Italian flair and aromatic boost.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every other flavor in the pan.
- Bowtie pasta (farfalle): These charming pasta shapes hold sauce beautifully and look gorgeous on the plate.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: A final sprinkle of Parmesan brings a salty, nutty finish that ties it all together.
How to Make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. You want to make sure it’s nicely browned and no longer pink, which will bring out those deliciously savory notes that make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta so irresistible.
Step 2: Add Onion and Garlic
Once the beef is browned, stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté everything together until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This step builds the aromatic foundation for your sauce, so let those flavors mingle for a few minutes.
Step 3: Stir in Tomatoes, Broth, Cream, and Seasonings
Next, add the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to combine everything, making sure the beef is fully coated in the creamy, tomato-rich sauce.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Let your sauce gently simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes. This gives the flavors a chance to meld, the sauce to thicken, and the kitchen to fill with an aroma that will have everyone asking what’s for dinner. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Cook the Bowtie Pasta
While the sauce simmers, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your bowtie pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta when it’s al dente, making sure it retains just the right bite to stand up to the creamy beef sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Top with Parmesan
Spoon the creamy beef sauce generously over the hot, drained bowtie pasta. Finish with a generous shower of grated Parmesan cheese on top. The cheese will melt slightly, adding a final layer of flavor that makes Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta truly memorable.
How to Serve Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta
Garnishes
A flourish of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a splash of color and a burst of freshness to your Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta. Don’t forget that extra sprinkle of Parmesan for a salty, cheesy finish that’s hard to resist.
Side Dishes
Pair this pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or serve it alongside roasted vegetables for a healthy, colorful contrast. Warm, crusty bread is always a hit for soaking up every last bit of that creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in individual ramekins or pasta bowls, garnished with a Parmesan crisp or a sprig of fresh herb. If you’re hosting guests, a large family-style platter makes for a stunning centerpiece on the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as they sit, making the next-day leftovers just as delicious—if not more!
Freezing
If you’d like to freeze some for later, let the pasta and sauce cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It’s best to freeze the sauce and pasta separately if possible, to maintain the best texture. Use within two months for peak flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the pasta and sauce on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess. If using the microwave, cover loosely and heat in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even warming.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is classic for Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta, you can easily swap in penne, rotini, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand. Just aim for a shape that holds onto the sauce.
Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream?
If you’re looking to lighten things up, you can use half-and-half or whole milk in place of heavy cream. The sauce will be a bit less rich, but it’ll still turn out creamy and satisfying.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Stir in some baby spinach, peas, or bell peppers during the last few minutes of simmering for extra color and nutrition. It’s an easy way to customize Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta to your family’s tastes.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta for the bowties. Most major brands offer gluten-free farfalle that works beautifully in this recipe.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the sauce a day ahead, then cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve. Reheat the sauce gently, combine with the pasta, and dinner is ready in minutes.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about a plate of Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta—simple ingredients, effortless steps, and a payoff that’s pure comfort. If you’re looking for a dinner that’s as easy as it is delicious, give this recipe a try and watch it become a staple in your kitchen!
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Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing and Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy beef and bowtie pasta dish that combines savory ground beef with a flavorful tomato and cream sauce, perfect for a comforting family dinner.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Seasonings
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta and Cheese
- 8 oz bowtie pasta
- Grated Parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onion softens and becomes translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Liquids: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, and heavy cream. Mix in the Italian seasoning, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer Sauce: Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors and thicken slightly.
- Cook the Pasta: While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well.
- Combine and Serve: Plate the cooked pasta and spoon the creamy beef sauce over the top. Finish with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes when adding Italian seasoning.
- Leftover sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To save time, prepare pasta and sauce simultaneously.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bowtie pasta.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 560 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 630 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg
