Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is the perfect comfort meal that combines the richness of a creamy sauce with tender beef and delicious pasta. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish, great for busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home. The blend of savory flavors and smooth texture makes each bite irresistibly good.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love how easy this recipe is to make, yet it feels indulgent and flavorful. The creamy sauce pairs so well with the bowtie pasta, and the tender beef adds a hearty touch that makes it a complete meal. It’s a crowd-pleaser, and it’s one of those dishes that everyone in the family will enjoy. Plus, it comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it the perfect go-to dinner when I’m short on time but still want something comforting.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 ½ cups heavy cream
1 cup beef broth
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Begin by cooking the bowtie pasta according to the package directions. Once done, drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef, and sauté for about 2 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Pour in the beef broth and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
Once the sauce is simmering and creamy, add the cooked pasta into the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is coated evenly in the sauce.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and continue cooking for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: I can swap the ground beef for plant-based protein or mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version. The creamy sauce will still be just as delicious.
Add Veggies: I like adding spinach, peas, or bell peppers to this dish for some extra color and nutrients. The veggies blend beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Spicy Version: If I want a little heat, I can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce tends to thicken a bit after refrigeration, but it will still taste great.
Reheating: When reheating, I like to add a splash of milk or beef broth to loosen the sauce before warming it up on the stove over low heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes! I like to use bowtie pasta for its fun shape, but any type of pasta, such as penne, fusilli, or rotini, will work perfectly with the creamy sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, I can make it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to reheat it properly and add a little extra liquid to get the sauce back to its creamy consistency.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If I want a thicker sauce, I can simmer it longer to reduce the liquid, or I can add a little more Parmesan cheese for added creaminess.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! The creamy sauce and tender beef are mild in flavor, making it a hit with kids. I find it’s a great way to sneak in some extra protein and carbs in a delicious way.

Can I freeze this dish?

While I prefer to enjoy it fresh, I can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To reheat, I would recommend thawing in the fridge overnight and reheating on the stove.

Conclusion

Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a simple, hearty dish that I can whip up in no time and always satisfies my cravings. The combination of savory beef, creamy sauce, and tender pasta is a winner every time. Whether I’m cooking for myself, my family, or a group of friends, this dish never disappoints. It’s definitely one I’ll be making again and again!

Sarah & James