If you’re craving a comforting, family-friendly dinner that’s rich, satisfying, and easy to prepare, Creamy Beef & Bowtie Pasta is the perfect solution. This hearty dish combines tender ground beef, perfectly cooked bowtie pasta (farfalle), and a velvety cream-based sauce that clings to every bite.
Popular across the United States and increasingly enjoyed in the United Kingdom and Canada, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or cozy weekend dinners. Best of all, it comes together in under 40 minutes with simple pantry ingredients.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Beef & Bowtie Pasta
This dish stands out because it delivers:
Rich, savory flavor
Creamy, comforting texture
Balanced protein and carbs
Kid-friendly appeal
One-pan convenience
The bowtie pasta shape holds the sauce beautifully, while seasoned beef adds depth and heartiness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients:
12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup cream cheese (softened)
1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar
½ cup grated Parmesan
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Optional: red pepper flakes
Optional Add-Ins:
Mushrooms
Spinach
Sun-dried tomatoes
Peas
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente.
Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes.
Add ground beef and cook until browned.
Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Drain excess grease if necessary.
Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in beef broth and simmer for 3–4 minutes.
Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream.
Add cream cheese and stir until melted.
Sprinkle in shredded cheese and Parmesan.
Stir until smooth and creamy.
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add drained bowtie pasta to the skillet. Toss until evenly coated in the creamy beef sauce.
Simmer together for 2–3 minutes so the flavors blend beautifully.
What Makes This Dish So Creamy?
The secret to ultra-creamy Creamy Beef & Bowtie Pasta lies in the combination of:
Heavy cream for richness
Cream cheese for smooth texture
Melted shredded cheese for body
Parmesan for savory depth
This layered dairy base creates a luxurious sauce that’s thick but not heavy.
Flavor Variations to Try
🧄 Garlic Parmesan Version
Add extra garlic and increase Parmesan for a sharper flavor.
🌶️ Spicy Kick
Mix in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
🍄 Mushroom Lovers
Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for earthy depth.
🥬 Spinach Boost
Stir in fresh spinach at the end for added color and nutrients.
🍅 Tomato Cream Twist
Add ½ cup tomato sauce for a rosé-style variation.
Pro Tips for Perfect Creamy Beef & Bowtie Pasta
✔ Use freshly grated cheese for smoother melting.
✔ Don’t overcook the pasta—it will continue cooking in the sauce.
✔ Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
✔ Let it rest 3–5 minutes before plating to thicken slightly.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy Beef & Bowtie Pasta pairs wonderfully with:
Garlic bread
Caesar salad
Steamed broccoli
Roasted asparagus
Crusty artisan bread
For a complete comfort meal, serve with a simple green salad and sparkling water or iced tea.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat:
Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
Freezing:
This dish can be frozen, but cream-based sauces may slightly change texture upon reheating.
Nutritional Notes
This is a rich comfort dish. To lighten it:
Use lean ground beef
Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream
Reduce cheese slightly
Add vegetables to increase fiber
It remains hearty but slightly lighter.
Why It’s Perfect for Busy Families
Creamy Beef & Bowtie Pasta is:
Quick (under 40 minutes)
Budget-friendly
Easily doubled for meal prep
Customizable to picky eaters
Comforting and filling
It’s the kind of recipe that becomes a regular in your dinner rotation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Another Pasta Shape?
Yes! Penne, rotini, or rigatoni work well.
Can I Make It Ahead?
Absolutely. Prepare fully and reheat gently with added liquid.
Can I Make It Gluten-Free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure broth is certified gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Beef & Bowtie Pasta is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying. With tender beef, perfectly coated farfalle, and a velvety cheese sauce, it delivers big flavor with minimal effort.