Description
Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring tender ground beef, al dente pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, this comforting meal is family-friendly and customizable.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or leaner)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil.
- Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes, stirring to combine.
- Season with Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss until well coated in the sauce.
- Let it simmer for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage instead of beef.
- Lighter Version: Substitute half-and-half or milk for heavy cream and reduce the cheese.
- Spicier Option: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Cheese Options: Swap Parmesan for shredded mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Veggie Boost: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: main course , pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: creamy pasta, beef pasta, easy pasta recipe, weeknight dinner, comfort food