Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a hearty, family-friendly dinner that’s rich, comforting, and packed with flavor. It features tender ground beef and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, all tossed in a creamy, cheesy sauce that comes together in one skillet. This is one of those easy weeknight meals I turn to when I want something satisfying with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s quick, comforting, and full of flavor. The bowtie pasta holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully, and the beef adds a savory richness that makes the dish feel complete. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for busy nights, and the leftovers are just as delicious the next day.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
bowtie pasta (farfalle)
ground beef
onion, diced
garlic, minced
beef broth
heavy cream or half-and-half
cream cheese
Parmesan cheese, grated
Italian seasoning
salt and pepper
olive oil or butter
optional: red pepper flakes, fresh parsley for garnish
directions
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I cook the bowtie pasta in salted water according to the package directions until al dente. I drain and set it aside.
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In a large skillet, I heat a little oil or butter and sauté the diced onion until soft, then add the garlic and cook for another minute.
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I add the ground beef to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until browned and fully cooked through.
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I pour in the beef broth and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
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I reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan. I let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
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I add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well coated.
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I serve it hot, garnished with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley, or a pinch of red pepper flakes if I want a little kick.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4–6 servings. Prep time is 10 minutes, and cook time is about 20 minutes—ready in 30 minutes total.
Variations
Sometimes I stir in spinach or peas for a pop of green, or use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version. I’ve also swapped the Parmesan for shredded mozzarella or cheddar when I want a cheesier twist. When I want extra depth, I add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dollop of tomato paste to the beef as it cooks.
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, I’ve used penne, rotini, and even shells. Any short pasta works well with the creamy sauce.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, I prepare the entire dish and reheat when ready to serve. It holds up well in the fridge and the flavor gets even better the next day.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
I can, but the sauce will be thinner. Using half-and-half or adding extra cheese helps it stay rich and creamy.
Is this dish spicy?
Not by default, but I’ve added red pepper flakes or a little hot sauce when I want more heat.
Can I freeze this?
Yes, I let it cool completely and freeze in portions. I thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.
Conclusion
Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is the kind of comforting, quick meal that always earns a spot in my regular dinner rotation. With savory ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce, it’s a one-skillet recipe that satisfies every time. Whether I make it for a cozy family meal or prep it ahead for a busy week, it’s a dish I know everyone will enjoy.
Print
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop / One-Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Description
Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a quick and easy weeknight dinner featuring savory ground beef, tender bowtie pasta, and a rich, cheesy cream sauce. This one-skillet pasta recipe is hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor—perfect for busy nights, picky eaters, and anyone craving a creamy, satisfying meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes, fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
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Cook the bowtie pasta in salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Sauté diced onion until soft, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute.
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Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed.
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Pour in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits.
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Reduce heat to low and stir in cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan. Let simmer for 3–5 minutes until smooth and creamy.
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Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until well combined and coated with sauce.
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Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan, parsley, or red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add spinach, peas, or mushrooms for extra veggies.
- Substitute Parmesan with shredded mozzarella or cheddar for a cheesier version.
- For more flavor, stir in a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a spoonful of tomato paste.
- Reheat with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
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