This rich and creamy beef pasta dish is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Featuring savory ground beef, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, all wrapped in a luscious creamy sauce, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Paired with bowtie pasta, this dish combines texture, flavor, and comfort in every bite.

Creamy Beef Bowtie Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re in the mood for a quick, hearty meal that’s full of flavor, this creamy beef bowtie pasta is the answer. The ground beef is perfectly seasoned with Italian herbs, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika, adding depth to the rich, creamy sauce. The addition of Parmesan cheese gives it that perfect cheesy finish, while the pasta soaks up all the delicious sauce. This dish is simple, satisfying, and ideal for a cozy dinner!

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

1 lb ground beef
3 teaspoons olive oil
5–6 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
3 tablespoons butter
3 cups beef broth
8 oz bowtie pasta
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
3/4 cup half and half (or whole milk)
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1–2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. If necessary, drain any excess fat from the beef once it’s browned.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef, cooking for about 2–3 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent, and the garlic is fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Seasonings

Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Allow the mixture to cook for another minute, letting the flavors meld together.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

Add the butter to the skillet and allow it to melt. Then, pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 3–4 minutes to reduce slightly and thicken.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce is simmering, cook the bowtie pasta in a separate pot according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 6: Make it Creamy

Once the beef broth has reduced a bit, stir in the half and half (or whole milk) and the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce becomes creamy and the cheese has melted, creating a smooth, rich sauce.

Step 7: Season the Sauce

Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and let the flavors meld for another 2–3 minutes.

Step 8: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated and everything is well mixed.

Step 9: Serve and Garnish

Serve the creamy beef bowtie pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Variations

Protein Options: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or try ground pork for a different flavor.
Cheese Variety: If you prefer a different cheese, you can substitute the Parmesan with Romano or Asiago for a unique twist.
Veggies: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the dish for added veggies and flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if necessary.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or spaghetti.

2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute the cream and cheese with plant-based alternatives like coconut cream and dairy-free cheese.

3. Can I use ground beef with a higher fat content?

Yes, but make sure to drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being too greasy.

4. How can I make this spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to increase the heat.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can cook the pasta and the sauce separately, then combine them right before serving. The dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

6. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat gently when ready to eat.

7. What should I serve with this pasta?

This creamy pasta pairs well with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

8. Can I add more cheese to the sauce?

Yes, you can add more Parmesan or even mozzarella for a cheesier sauce.

9. Can I use low-sodium beef broth?

Yes, using low-sodium beef broth is a great way to control the salt content of the dish.

10. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and check that your beef broth and other ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

This creamy beef bowtie pasta is a comforting and indulgent dish that combines rich flavors with simple ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a weeknight or serving guests, this recipe is guaranteed to impress with its smooth, cheesy sauce and savory beef. Quick to prepare and satisfying to the last bite, it’s a must-try for any pasta lover

Creamy Beef Bowtie Pasta

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Author: Chef sara
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This rich and creamy Beef Bowtie Pasta is the ultimate comfort food. Featuring savory ground beef, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, all wrapped in a luscious creamy sauce, this dish is perfect for cozy dinners or a quick weeknight meal. Paired with bowtie pasta, it delivers a satisfying texture and flavor in every bite.

Instructions

Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook for about 2–3 minutes, until the onion softens and the garlic is fragrant.
Add the Seasonings:
Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute to meld the flavors together.
Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
Add the butter to the skillet, letting it melt, then pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 3–4 minutes to allow the broth to reduce and thicken.
Cook the Pasta:
While the sauce simmers, cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make it Creamy:
Stir in the half and half (or milk) and Parmesan cheese to the skillet, mixing until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
Season the Sauce:
Add salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together, letting the sauce thicken for 2–3 more minutes.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, coating it well with the creamy sauce. Stir to combine.
Serve and Garnish:
Serve the creamy beef bowtie pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness

Notes

Protein Options: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or pork for variety.
Cheese Variety: Use Romano or Asiago for a different cheesy twist.
Veggies: Add mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: skillet
Cuisine: American, italian