Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

This creamy beef and bowtie pasta has become my go-to solution for hectic weeknights when I need something delicious on the table fast. The combination of tender pasta, savory beef, and rich cream sauce creates a dish that feels indulgent yet comes together with minimal effort.

I first created this recipe during a particularly chaotic week when my in-laws were visiting unexpectedly. The dish was such a hit that it's now requested at nearly every family gathering, and my mother-in-law even asked for the recipe to take home.

Ingredients

• Bowtie pasta transforms this from an ordinary meal to something special with its fun shape that captures the sauce perfectly
• Ground beef provides hearty protein and rich flavor use 85/15 lean to fat ratio for best results
• Onion and garlic create an aromatic base that elevates the entire dish
• Diced tomatoes add brightness and acidity to balance the richness
• Beef broth infuses deeper flavor throughout the pasta as it cooks
• Italian seasoning blend saves time while delivering complex herb notes
• Smoked paprika contributes a subtle smokiness that makes people wonder what your secret ingredient is
• Heavy cream creates that luxurious mouthfeel that makes this dish so comforting
• Shredded cheese melts into the sauce creating stretchy delicious bites
• Fresh parsley brightens the finished dish both visually and flavor wise

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring to a rolling boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions until just al dente usually 8 to 10 minutes. The pasta should have a slight firmness as it will continue cooking slightly when combined with the sauce. Drain thoroughly but do not rinse, as the starch helps the sauce adhere.

Brown the Beef and Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium high heat until shimmering. Add the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Immediately add the diced onion and cook together for a full 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This dual cooking process allows the beef fat to flavor the onions while they soften. Once the beef is no longer pink and has developed some browned edges, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic or it will taste bitter.

Create the Flavor Base

Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Use your spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan these contain concentrated flavor. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it bubble for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly and the flavors to intensify. The tomatoes will begin to break down and integrate with the beef.

Develop the Creamy Sauce

Reduce the heat to low to prevent the cream from curdling. Pour in the heavy cream in a slow, steady stream while stirring constantly. Let the mixture warm through for 2 to 3 minutes without boiling. Gradually add the shredded cheese, stirring continuously in a figure eight motion to ensure it melts evenly without clumping. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon when ready.

Combine and Finish

Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet, gently folding it into the creamy beef sauce until every piece is generously coated. Allow the pasta to sit in the sauce for about 1 minute to absorb some of the flavors. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley just before serving for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

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This dish holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of the pasta my grandmother used to make when we visited her in the countryside. She always insisted on adding a pinch of smoked paprika, which I thought was strange until I realized how it transformed the flavor profile. Now I never make this dish without thinking of her kitchen and her wisdom about simple ingredients making extraordinary meals.

Storing Leftovers

This creamy beef and bowtie pasta actually improves overnight as the flavors continue to meld in the refrigerator. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the silky texture, as the pasta will absorb much of the sauce while storing. Reheat gently over medium-low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until heated through.

Make-Ahead Options

You can prepare components of this dish in advance to make weeknight assembly even quicker. Brown the beef with onions and garlic up to two days ahead, storing it in the refrigerator. The pasta can be cooked until slightly underdone, tossed with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking, and refrigerated separately. When ready to serve, warm the beef mixture, add the tomatoes and seasonings, then proceed with the recipe as written. This approach cuts the active cooking time nearly in half.

Customization Ideas

This versatile recipe serves as an excellent base for endless variations. For a vegetable-forward version, fold in 2 cups of baby spinach just before adding the pasta, allowing the residual heat to wilt it perfectly. Mushrooms make an excellent addition – sauté 8 ounces of sliced cremini or button mushrooms with the onions for an earthy dimension. For a spicier profile, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño with the garlic. Those looking for a lighter option can substitute half and half for the heavy cream, though the sauce won't be quite as rich.

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Common Questions

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the bowtie pasta (farfalle) with other medium-sized pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells. Just adjust cooking times according to package instructions to ensure the pasta reaches al dente texture.

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

To make a healthier version, use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. You can also use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and reduce the cheese amount while using part-skim varieties.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess as the sauce tends to thicken when chilled.

→ What sides pair well with this pasta dish?

This hearty pasta pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it with steamed broccoli, a Caesar salad, or some crusty Italian bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

→ Can this dish be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze this dish, though cream-based sauces may separate slightly upon thawing. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of cream to refresh the sauce.

→ How can I make this dish dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cooking cream. Replace the cheese with dairy-free alternatives that melt well, or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. The dish will have a slightly different taste but will maintain its creamy texture.