Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

A Comforting and Hearty One-Pan Meal

Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a delicious, family-friendly meal that combines tender ground beef, perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce. This dish is not only flavorful but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. The combination of savory beef, velvety sauce, and al dente pasta creates a comforting dish that is sure to be a hit at the dinner table.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Uses simple pantry ingredients and can be ready in under 30 minutes.
• One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes to clean up, making dinner hassle-free.
• Rich and Creamy: The sauce is perfectly balanced with a blend of cheese, cream, and seasonings.
• Kid-Friendly: A great meal that pleases even picky eaters.
• Customizable: Can be modified with vegetables, different proteins, or alternative pasta choices.

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Ingredients

• 12 ounces bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• 1 pound ground beef (85% lean recommended)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of mozzarella and parmesan)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese (for extra creaminess)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later use if needed.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

1. In a large skillet or deep pan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
2. Drain any excess grease if necessary.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

1. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
3. Add the heavy cream, stirring continuously.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheese

1. Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheese and cream cheese until melted and smooth.
2. Add Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

Step 6: Combine Everything

1. Toss in the cooked pasta, stirring well to coat in the creamy sauce.
2. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

1. Garnish with fresh parsley.
2. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy beef and bowtie pasta!

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Variations & Substitutions

• Meat Options: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage.
• Cheese Choices: Use a mix of parmesan, mozzarella, or even gouda for extra creaminess.
• Vegetable Additions: Toss in mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, or peas for added nutrition.
• Pasta Alternatives: Try penne, rotini, or rigatoni if you don’t have bowtie pasta.
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and leaner meat for a lower-fat option.

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Servings & Timing

• Servings: 4–6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

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Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add more heat, increase the red pepper flakes or mix in a dash of hot sauce.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce won’t be as thick. You can thicken it with a little extra cheese or a cornstarch slurry.

What can I serve with this pasta?

A simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair well with this dish.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes! Use about 2–3 diced fresh tomatoes, and add a little extra tomato paste for richness.

How do I prevent the sauce from being too thick?

Reserve some pasta water and add it gradually to loosen the sauce as needed.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

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

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately. When ready to serve, cook fresh pasta and mix it in.

Is there a dairy-free option?

Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free cheese substitutes.

What other seasonings can I use?

Try smoked paprika, onion powder, or a pinch of nutmeg for added depth of flavor.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to use a large enough skillet or pot to accommodate the ingredients.

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Conclusion

Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a rich, satisfying meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers creamy goodness in every bite. Try it with different proteins, veggies, or cheeses to make it your own. Serve it hot, and enjoy a comforting homemade meal!

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