Short Description

Creamy Beef & Bowtie Pasta is the perfect one-pot meal for busy weeknights. This rich and comforting dish combines tender ground beef, perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, and a luscious, creamy sauce for a satisfying dinner that the whole family will love. Best of all, it comes together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: This meal is ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.
One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to relax after dinner.
Creamy & Satisfying: The combination of pasta, beef, and a velvety sauce makes this dish incredibly comforting.
Family-Friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike, thanks to its mild yet delicious flavors.
Customizable: Easy to adjust with different seasonings, add-ins, or substitutions to fit dietary needs.

Ingredients

Ground beef
Bowtie pasta (farfalle)
Onion
Garlic
Beef broth
Heavy cream
Tomato sauce
Italian seasoning
Paprika
Salt
Black pepper
Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley

Directions

Cook the Beef: In a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef, cooking until the onion is soft and translucent.
Add Liquids: Pour in the beef broth, heavy cream, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine.
Season the Dish: Add Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
Cook the Pasta: Stir in the uncooked bowtie pasta, ensuring it is fully submerged in the liquid.
Simmer: Cover and let the pasta cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Finish with Cheese: Once the pasta is tender, stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for extra heat.
Cheese Swap: Try mozzarella or cheddar instead of Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
Meat Alternatives: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Vegetarian Version: Substitute the beef with mushrooms or plant-based meat alternatives.
Extra Veggies: Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrients.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency. Microwave individual portions with a little added liquid for best results.

FAQs

How can I prevent the pasta from sticking?

Stir the pasta occasionally while cooking to prevent clumping or sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes! Penne, rotini, or shell pasta work well as substitutes.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half, whole milk, or a mixture of milk and butter.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but for the best texture, cook the pasta just until al dente and reheat with extra liquid before serving.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The creamy texture and mild flavors make it a great meal for kids.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the broth and seasonings are gluten-free.

Can I add more protein?

Yes! You can mix in cooked chicken, sausage, or beans for extra protein.

What can I serve with this dish?

A simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables pair well.

How can I make this lower in fat?

Use lean ground beef, light cream, or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Brown the beef on the “Sauté” setting, then add all ingredients, seal, and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Quick-release pressure and stir before serving.

Conclusion

Creamy Beef & Bowtie Pasta is a comforting, delicious, and easy one-pot meal that will quickly become a family favorite. With its creamy sauce, savory beef, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is both satisfying and simple to prepare. Give it a try for a hassle-free dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor!

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