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Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is that rare dinner you will actually look forward to making on a weeknight. It is deliciously rich but takes only thirty minutes and you get a hearty meal in one pot. It combines savory ground beef with toothsome pasta and a sauce so smooth and cheesy that my family usually races to beat each other to seconds.
I first pulled this one out when I needed dinner in a pinch after a long workday. Now I keep bowtie pasta and ground beef on standby because I know everyone will be happy at dinnertime.
Ingredients
- bowtie pasta: the unique shape holds onto the creamy sauce really nicely look for pasta that feels firm in the box or bag for best texture
- olive oil: helps brown the beef and brings out the flavor choose extra virgin for a peppery touch
- ground beef: gives the dish rich flavor and heartiness I go for 85 percent lean for juiciness
- onion: adds sweet aromatic notes yellow or white onions both work
- garlic: brings warmth and depth fresh minced cloves make a big difference
- diced tomatoes: add a touch of acidity and color canned tomatoes with no added sugar taste brightest
- beef broth: creates a savory foundation low sodium broth lets you control the seasoning
- Italian seasoning: gives classic herbal flavor choose a blend with oregano basil and thyme
- smoked paprika: adds gentle smokiness and color make sure it is fresh for max aroma
- salt: lifts all the flavors use kosher or sea salt for more complex taste
- black pepper: brings light heat grind it fresh if you can
- heavy cream: makes the sauce ultra rich and smooth choose full fat for best results
- shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella: melts smoothly into the sauce grate it yourself for ultimate creaminess
- chopped fresh parsley: finishes the dish with brightness look for parsley leaves that are crisp and green
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add a generous pinch of salt. Drop in the bowtie pasta and stir so it does not stick. Cook for about ten minutes until the pieces feel tender but still have a little bite. Drain immediately and set aside so the pasta does not overcook.
- Brown the Beef and Onions:
- Place a large deep skillet or dutch oven on medium high heat and pour in the olive oil. When the oil is shimmering add the ground beef and onion. Stir and break up the beef as it cooks. After about five to seven minutes the beef should be deeply browned with no pink showing and onions translucent. Tilt the pan and spoon off any extra fat if needed.
- Sauté the Garlic:
- Toss the minced garlic into the pan with beef. Stir for about one to two minutes until the garlic gives off a fragrant aroma. This step helps the garlic flavor mellow and sweeten.
- Simmer with Tomatoes and Spices:
- Stir the diced tomatoes including their juices into the skillet. Pour in the beef broth then sprinkle in Italian seasoning smoked paprika salt and black pepper. Mix everything so the seasonings are evenly blended. Turn the heat down a notch and let the mixture bubble gently for five to seven minutes so all the flavors marry and the liquid reduces slightly.
- Enrich with Cream and Cheese:
- Turn the heat to low and slowly pour in the heavy cream. Stir it well then scatter the shredded cheese over the top. Keep stirring until the cheese melts into a silky sauce. There should be no lumps and the mixture gets glossy and thick.
- Finish and Serve:
- Slide the cooked bowtie pasta into the pan with the creamy beef sauce. Gently toss and mix so every piece of pasta gets coated. Sprinkle with chopped parsley just before serving to add freshness and color. Bring to the table piping hot.
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My favorite part is the way smoked paprika gives the sauce a subtle warmth that keeps you coming back for more. I have vivid memories of my daughter peeking into the pot asking if it is ready every time she smells this dish cooking.
Storage Tips
Let the pasta cool to room temperature before transferring into an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or extra broth to bring back the creamy texture. For longer keeping you can freeze portions in zip top bags for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or even plant based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian twist. If you do not have bowtie pasta try penne or rotini they hold the sauce just as well. Mozzarella gives a milder result while cheddar brings strong cheesy flavor. No heavy cream on hand whole milk with a spoon of butter stirred in works in a pinch.
Serving Suggestions
You can make this pasta dinner both simple or special. Serve it with crusty garlic bread or toasted ciabatta for scooping up the sauce. On the side a fresh green salad with a punchy vinaigrette helps balance the richness. If you want to add a green vegetable stir a big handful of baby spinach or thawed peas into the sauce near the end of cooking.
Cultural Roots of the Dish
While this dish is American in comfort food spirit you will spot its Italian influences in the pasta shape and flavors like tomato and Parmesan. Bowtie pasta or farfalle actually means butterfly in Italian and dates back to Northern Italy. The combination of beef and creamy sauce is a twist inspired by classic American casseroles from church potlucks and family tables.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely! Penne, rotini, or shells all work well and will hold the creamy sauce nicely.
- → What cheese is best for the sauce?
Cheddar and mozzarella are both delicious choices. Feel free to experiment with your favorites.
- → How can I add vegetables to this dish?
Stir in cooked broccoli, peas, or spinach just before serving to add color and nutrition.
- → Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently for best texture.
- → Is it possible to make it spicier?
For extra heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños along with the seasonings.
- → What is a good garnish for serving?
Freshly chopped parsley adds color and a fresh flavor to each serving.