If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting, and family-friendly dinner, Creamy Beef & Bowtie Pasta is the perfect recipe to add to your weekly meal rotation. This rich and satisfying dish combines tender ground beef, perfectly cooked bowtie (farfalle) pasta, and a creamy, savory sauce that coats every bite beautifully.
It’s quick enough for busy weeknights yet indulgent enough to serve for guests. Plus, it uses simple pantry ingredients you probably already have at home.
Let’s dive into this delicious comfort food classic.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Beef & Bowtie Pasta
This dish is:
✅ Ready in about 30 minutes
✅ Budget-friendly
✅ Kid-approved
✅ Perfect for leftovers
✅ Customizable with vegetables or spices
The bowtie pasta holds onto the creamy beef sauce wonderfully, making every bite flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy beef pasta recipe:
12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
1 lb ground beef (80/20 or lean)
1 small onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for depth)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional Add-ins:
Mushrooms
Spinach
Red bell peppers
Crushed red pepper flakes
Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Tip: Reserve ½ cup of pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.
2️⃣ Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3️⃣ Build the Creamy Sauce
Add:
Tomato paste (if using)
Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper
Pour in the beef broth and let simmer for 3–4 minutes to reduce slightly.
Lower heat and stir in heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes until it thickens.
4️⃣ Add the Cheese
Stir in shredded cheese and Parmesan until melted and smooth. The sauce should become creamy and rich.
If it gets too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water or more broth.
5️⃣ Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated in the creamy beef sauce.
Let everything simmer together for 2–3 minutes so the flavors blend beautifully.
Pro Tips for Perfect Creamy Beef & Bowtie Pasta
🧀 Use Freshly Shredded Cheese
Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect smooth melting.
🍝 Don’t Overcook the Pasta
Keep it slightly firm so it doesn’t get mushy when mixed with the sauce.
🥩 Choose the Right Beef
80/20 ground beef gives the best flavor. Lean beef works too—just add a bit more seasoning.
🌿 Add Fresh Herbs
Fresh parsley or basil adds a bright finish that balances the creamy richness.
Variations to Try
🥬 Creamy Beef & Spinach Bowtie Pasta
Stir in fresh spinach at the end until wilted for extra nutrition.
🍄 Mushroom Beef Pasta
Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for added depth and earthiness.
🌶 Spicy Version
Add crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for heat.
🧄 Garlic Parmesan Upgrade
Increase garlic and Parmesan for a stronger savory flavor.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating
Reheat on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
Freezing
You can freeze it, but cream-based sauces may slightly change texture. Freeze for up to 2 months.
What to Serve with Creamy Beef & Bowtie Pasta
This rich pasta pairs beautifully with:
Garlic bread
Caesar salad
Roasted vegetables
Steamed broccoli
Side salad with balsamic dressing
For a complete comfort meal, add warm bread and a crisp green salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes! Penne, rotini, or shells work well. Bowtie pasta just holds the sauce especially nicely.
Can I substitute the cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich. For a lighter option, try Greek yogurt stirred in at the end.
Can I make it one-pot?
Yes! Cook the pasta separately for best texture, but you can also simmer everything together if you adjust liquid amounts.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Beef & Bowtie Pasta is the kind of comforting, satisfying dish that brings everyone to the table. It’s creamy, cheesy, hearty, and incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe delivers flavor and convenience in every bite.
Once you try this creamy beef pasta, it’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.
Ready to cook? 🍝✨