Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of pasta, especially when it’s blanketed in a rich, creamy sauce. Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is the kind of dinner that brings everyone to the table with its savory aroma and hearty goodness. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays, this recipe offers the best of both convenience and indulgence.

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The tender ground beef, buttery bowtie noodles, and velvety cream sauce come together in under 30 minutes. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug in food form. Whether you’re feeding picky kids or tired adults, this meal is always a hit. One bite, and you’ll see why it’s become a weeknight staple.


Why You’ll Love This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

  • Quick & Easy: Minimal prep and simple ingredients.
  • Hearty & Filling: Loaded with protein and carbs for a satisfying dinner.
  • Family Favorite: Mild flavors make it ideal for kids and adults alike.
  • Versatile: Customize it with veggies, spices, or different cheeses.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for This Dish?

Bowtie pasta (also called farfalle) is ideal for this dish because its shape holds the creamy sauce perfectly in every crevice. However, you can substitute with penne, rotini, or shells if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure it’s a pasta that can grab onto the sauce and stand up to the beef.


Ingredients for the Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Every ingredient plays a comforting role in this dish:

  • Bowtie Pasta – The base of the dish, these hold the sauce beautifully.
  • Ground Beef – Provides richness and a savory depth of flavor.
  • Onion – Adds a sweet, aromatic backbone to the meat mixture.
  • Garlic – Brings a warm, earthy flavor that rounds out the dish.
  • Heavy Cream – The key to that creamy, luscious texture.
  • Beef Broth – Enhances the meaty flavor and balances the cream.
  • Parmesan Cheese – Melts into the sauce for a nutty, salty finish.
  • Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning everything to taste.
  • Butter – Adds extra richness and gloss to the sauce.

How To Make the Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Step 1: Boil 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: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Add Flavor

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, butter, and grated Parmesan. Let it simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet with the creamy beef mixture. Mix well until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.


Serving and Storing Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

This dish is best served immediately, while the sauce is still velvety and warm. It feeds about 4 to 6 people, depending on portion size.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave.


What to Serve With Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta?

Garlic Bread

Crispy, buttery garlic bread is the perfect scoop for extra sauce.

Caesar Salad

A crunchy romaine salad with creamy dressing adds balance and freshness.

Roasted Broccoli

Oven-roasted broccoli with a hint of lemon offers a veggie side that doesn’t overpower.

Balsamic Green Beans

These bring a tangy counterpoint to the rich pasta.

Caprese Skewers

Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil on skewers keep things light.

Grated Parmesan

Place a bowl on the table for those who want extra cheesy goodness.

Lemon Iced Tea

A refreshing, citrusy drink to balance the creamy main.

Apple Crisp

For dessert, a warm apple crisp with cinnamon pairs beautifully.


Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta hits the spot, here are some other favorites you’ll want to explore:


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Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try a spice twist or add extra cheese? Did your kids love it as much as mine did?

I love seeing how you make these meals your own. Questions welcome too—let’s build a better bowl of pasta together!

Explore more of my cozy, comfort-filled recipes on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite dinner idea!


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Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta


  • Author: Nora
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

When dinner needs to be fast, filling, and full of flavor, this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is your answer. With tender ground beef, a rich parmesan cream sauce, and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, this comforting dish comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s a fantastic choice for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or last-minute guests. This easy recipe fits right into your collection of quick dinners, hearty family meals, and delicious food ideas for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for comfort food, pasta recipes, or just something new, this creamy beef pasta won’t disappoint.


Ingredients

12 oz bowtie pasta

1 lb ground beef

1 small onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup beef broth

1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

2 tbsp butter

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper


Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook bowtie pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and chopped onion until browned. Drain excess fat.

3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in beef broth and simmer for 3 minutes.

4. Reduce heat to low and add heavy cream, butter, and parmesan. Stir until smooth and slightly thickened.

5. Toss cooked pasta into the skillet and stir until well coated. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

6. Serve hot with extra parmesan or a side salad.

Notes

For extra richness, add a splash of cream when reheating leftovers.

You can swap the ground beef with turkey or Italian sausage for a flavor twist.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 620
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 540mg
  • Fat: 35g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: creamy beef pasta, easy dinner, comfort food, quick pasta recipe

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