If you’re craving a hearty yet comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Creamy Ground Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe is the answer you’ve been searching for. It beautifully combines tender ground beef with perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, all enveloped in a luscious, velvety cream sauce that’s infused with rich Parmesan and fragrant herbs. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend treat, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that never fails to satisfy both hungry stomachs and eager taste buds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is part of what makes this recipe so approachable, yet each component plays an essential role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the savory ground beef to the fresh parsley garnish, every item brings something special to this dish.
- Ground beef (1 lb): Choose lean or regular depending on your preference for richness and juiciness in the sauce.
- Olive oil or butter (2 tablespoons): Helps to sauté the aromatics and adds a silky base for the sauce.
- Onion (1 medium, finely chopped): Brings sweetness and depth when cooked down gently.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds pungent warmth and fragrance that elevates the entire dish.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Introduces a subtle herbal note that complements the beef perfectly.
- Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Offers a sweet, slightly peppery flavor enhancing the creaminess.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon or to taste): Balances and enhances all the flavors naturally.
- Freshly ground black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a mild heat and sharpness for contrast.
- Beef broth (1/2 cup): Deepens the savory flavor of the dish and keeps the sauce luscious.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): The key to the silky, rich texture that makes this recipe truly creamy.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, plus extra for topping): Brings salty, nutty complexity and helps thicken the sauce.
- Bowtie pasta (12 oz): Its unique shape holds onto the sauce beautifully for every bite.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped, optional): Provides a fresh, vibrant pop of color and flavor as a garnish.
How to Make Creamy Ground Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. This ensures the pasta has just the right bite and won’t get mushy when it’s combined with the creamy sauce later. Once cooked, drain it and set aside while you prepare the savory beef mixture.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and soft, about 3 to 4 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Now, add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until it’s browned all over. This step creates the flavor foundation, so take your time to develop those rich, caramelized bits of beef and onion.
Step 3: Season and Add Broth
Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper, stirring to evenly coat the meat and vegetables. Pour in the beef broth, which adds moisture and intensifies the savory aspect of the dish. Let it simmer gently until the liquid reduces slightly, concentrating those wonderful flavors.
Step 4: Incorporate the Cream and Parmesan
Lower the heat to medium-low and carefully stir in the heavy cream. This is where our Creamy Ground Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe really starts to shine. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce thickens to a gorgeous, silky consistency that clings to the noodles and beef alike.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Gently fold in the cooked bowtie pasta, making sure each piece is well-coated with the rich cream sauce. Give everything a final taste and adjust seasoning if needed. This step brings all elements together in perfect harmony ready for serving.
How to Serve Creamy Ground Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley sprinkled on top gives a lovely burst of color and a mild herbal brightness that beautifully contrasts the richness of the sauce. Feel free to add an extra sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan just before serving for a bit more cheesy goodness that melts right into the dish.
Side Dishes
This pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to balance the creaminess with some refreshing acidity. Garlic bread or crusty baguette slices are perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce and adding a satisfying crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elevated presentation, serve the creamy ground beef and bowtie pasta in shallow bowls with individual sprigs of parsley or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. Alternatively, try layering the pasta in a baking dish topped with extra cheese and broiling it until golden and bubbly for a delightful twist that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy Ground Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more beautifully after resting, making it a delicious second-day meal.
Freezing
If you want to keep this dish longer, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers. While cream-based dishes can be tricky, this one freezes well if you slightly undercook the pasta initially and reheat gently later—up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Reheat in a skillet over low heat on the stove, stirring often and adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creamy consistency. Microwaving works too but stir halfway through to heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is ideal for capturing the creamy sauce, penne, rotini, or fusilli work well too. Just choose pasta shapes that can hold sauce in their crevices.
Is ground turkey or chicken a good substitute for ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used if you prefer a leaner option, but the flavor will be milder. You might want to add a little extra seasoning or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to boost the savory depth.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or lighter?
You can swap heavy cream for coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative, though it will change the flavor slightly. For a lighter version, using half-and-half works, but the sauce won’t be quite as thick or rich.
How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
Cook the pasta al dente and drain it promptly. Since it will be combined with the sauce and lightly warmed again, it continues to cook slightly, so firmer pasta is key to avoid sogginess.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach make fantastic additions. Add them during the onion and garlic sauté stage to blend flavors seamlessly into the creamy sauce.
Final Thoughts
If comfort food had a superstar, this Creamy Ground Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe would be it. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out and makes any meal feel special without fuss. I truly hope you give this recipe a try and make it a favorite at your table as it has become at mine.
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Creamy Ground Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender ground beef with aromatic herbs, garlic, and a luxuriously creamy Parmesan sauce tossed with perfectly cooked bowtie pasta. Ideal for a satisfying family dinner, it offers rich flavors and a smooth texture that will please any pasta lover.
Ingredients
Meat and Dairy
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
- Additional grated Parmesan for topping (optional)
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Dry Ingredients & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Liquids and Pasta
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet with the beef and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Seasonings and Liquids: Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir to combine, then pour in the beef broth. Let the mixture simmer for about 3-5 minutes to reduce slightly and develop flavor.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook gently, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy, about 4-5 minutes. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy beef sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier version or regular ground beef for more flavor.
- Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried for a fresher taste.
- For a lighter dish, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Basil and oregano can be adjusted or swapped with Italian seasoning based on preference.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove or microwave.
- To make it gluten-free, substitute bowtie pasta with a gluten-free pasta alternative.
