If you’re on the hunt for a dish that feels like a warm, comforting hug after a long day, then this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with tender ground beef, the subtle herbs, and an irresistibly rich cream sauce that perfectly coats every bowtie pasta nook and cranny, it’s a simple yet indulgent meal that promises satisfaction in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or indulging solo, this recipe merges ease with flavor in such a way that you’ll be reaching for the leftovers again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive in, let’s take a moment to appreciate how straightforward and essential these ingredients are. Each one plays a crucial role: from building the base with savory beef and aromatics, to creating that luscious, creamy sauce that brings everything together beautifully.
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular): The hearty star that adds protein and a satisfying richness to the dish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter): Helps brown the beef nicely and adds a subtle, silky mouthfeel.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth and a punch of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A fragrant herb that lifts the flavor beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Introduces a delicate, slightly sweet herbal note.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Enhances all the savory elements.
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds gentle heat and complexity.
- 1/2 cup beef broth: Boosts flavor while keeping the beef moist and tender.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The secret to that irresistibly creamy texture that clings to the pasta.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Packs umami and a slightly nutty background note.
- 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle): The perfect shape for holding sauce in its folds and cavities.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish): Adds a pop of fresh color and brightness.
- Additional grated Parmesan for topping (optional): For those who love a cheesier finish with every serving.
How to Make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula, cooking until it’s browned and no longer pink. This caramelization creates foundational flavor. Remove excess fat if needed, then toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes, letting those lovely aromas build up.
Step 2: Layer in the Herbs and Seasonings
Sprinkle the dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper over the beef mixture. Stir thoroughly to coat the beef and onions with the herbs. This step ensures that every bite of the Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe is infused with balanced, herbal goodness that makes the dish so memorable.
Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer
Pour in the beef broth to deglaze the pan, gently scraping up any tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom. Let this simmer for 3-5 minutes to meld flavors and reduce slightly so the broth thickens just a little. This creates a savory base that will soak into the pasta perfectly.
Step 4: Cook the Bowtie Pasta
While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your bowtie pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Bowtie pasta’s unique shape traps sauce beautifully, making it the ideal partner for this creamy beef creation.
Step 5: Finish the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat and stir the heavy cream into your skillet with the beef mixture. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and keep stirring until the cheese melts smoothly and the sauce thickens slightly into a luscious coating. This step is where that dreamy texture we rave about in the Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe really comes to life.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Drain the bowtie pasta, then toss it into the skillet with the creamy beef sauce. Stir gently but thoroughly so every piece of pasta gets enveloped in that rich, flavorful sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Now your dish is ready for serving!
How to Serve Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds not only a burst of vibrant color but a fresh, herbal contrast to the creamy sauce. Don’t forget an extra handful of grated Parmesan cheese for that irresistible finishing touch that truly elevates the flavors on your plate.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple green sides — think crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed broccoli dressed lightly with lemon juice. These light accompaniments balance the richness of the creamy beef pasta without competing with its flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve individual portions in shallow bowls, then drizzle a little extra cream or olive oil on top for gloss. Alternatively, place the dish in a large, rustic serving platter and let everyone dig in family-style. It’s a comforting meal perfect for casual gatherings or cozy weeknights alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftover Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe to an airtight container within two hours of cooking. Refrigerate for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. The cream sauce holds up well, keeping the pasta tender but not mushy.
Freezing
If you want to keep this creamy comfort food longer, freezing is an option. Store the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze before adding parsley garnish, and let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat the pasta on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of cream or broth if the sauce appears too thick or dry. Avoid microwave reheating without stirring, as it can cause uneven heating and curdling of the creamy sauce.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta shape for the Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is perfect for holding the sauce, other shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work great too—choose your favorite to customize the dish.
Is it possible to make this recipe with ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a leaner alternative that will still taste delicious. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and consider adding a little extra seasoning to boost flavor.
Can I substitute heavy cream with a lighter option?
While heavy cream provides the creamy texture and richness, you can use half-and-half or whole milk in a pinch. The sauce may be a bit thinner, so you might want to add a small thickener like a cornstarch slurry.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, swap heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and use a dairy-free cheese substitute or nutritional yeast for the cheesy flavor.
Can this dish be made vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a fully meat-free dish.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe that makes it a must-try for anyone who loves comforting, flavorful meals without fuss. Its rich sauce, tender meat, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in a way that feels both indulgent and homey. Give it a go for your next dinner, and I promise it’ll become a fast favorite in your recipe repertoire!
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Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta recipe combines tender ground beef with a rich, savory cream sauce and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta. Enhanced with garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese, this comforting dish is quick to prepare and perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Beef and Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Pasta
- 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Additional grated Parmesan for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet or pan, heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion to the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add herbs and seasoning: Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to blend flavors.
- Make the creamy sauce: Pour in the beef broth and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. Reduce the heat to low, then add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet, gently tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy beef sauce. Cook for 1-2 more minutes to heat through.
- Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve immediately for a warm, creamy pasta dish.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content if desired.
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but it will be less thick.
- Fresh herbs like basil and oregano can be used instead of dried for a brighter flavor.
- Adding vegetables such as mushrooms or spinach can enhance nutrition and texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
