Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe is absolutely perfect. This dish combines tender bowtie pasta with savory ground beef, all wrapped in a luscious, creamy sauce that’s packed with flavor. It’s one of those recipes that’s simple to make yet impressive enough to become a go-to dinner for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe never fails to bring smiles around the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses straightforward, kitchen-friendly ingredients that come together to create a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Each element plays its part, from the bowtie pasta providing that fun shape and bite, to the creamy Parmesan sauce adding richness, and the peas sneaking in a pop of color and freshness.

• 12 ounces bowtie pasta (farfalle): The perfect pasta shape to hold onto that creamy sauce with every bite.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a smooth base for cooking the beef and aromatics without overpowering the dish.
• 1 pound ground beef: The hearty star that brings savory depth and satisfying protein.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped: Offers a subtle sweetness that balances the richness.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides that warm, fragrant note that elevates the entire dish.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the other flavors.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick and rounds out the seasoning.
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses the beef with aromatic complexity.
• 1 cup beef broth: Lends a savory, meaty background to the creamy sauce.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Delivers the luscious, silky texture that makes this pasta truly indulgent.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce, adding sharp, nutty flavor and extra creaminess.
• 1 cup frozen peas: Brings a burst of natural sweetness and a beautiful green contrast to the dish.
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Freshens things up visually and with a hint of herbal brightness.

How to Make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling the bowtie pasta in salted water, following the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. The slight firmness ensures the pasta holds up nicely when tossed with the creamy sauce later. Once cooked, drain and set it aside so it’s ready to mingle with the beef mixture.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This step builds rich, meaty flavor and creates a hearty base for our creamy sauce.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

With the beef browned, toss in your finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic releases its warm, inviting aroma. This combination builds incredible layers of flavor that give the sauce depth.

Step 4: Season the Mixture

Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, and the Italian seasoning. Stir everything well so the seasonings mingle with the beef and vegetables, making every bite flavorful and aromatic.

Step 5: Simmer with Beef Broth

Pour in the beef broth and bring the skillet to a gentle simmer. Letting it cook for about five minutes allows the broth to reduce slightly, intensifying the taste and marrying all those bold flavors together beautifully.

Step 6: Add the Cream

Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Bring the sauce back to a gentle simmer, watching as it envelops the beef in a smooth, rich texture that feels indulgent but balanced.

Step 7: Melt in Parmesan Cheese

Now for the magic touch: add the grated Parmesan cheese a little at a time, stirring constantly until it’s fully melted into the sauce. This creates a velvety, cheesy finish that brings extra depth and creaminess.

Step 8: Stir in the Peas

Fold in the frozen peas and cook for another couple of minutes until they’re warmed through. Their bright color and subtle sweetness create a lovely contrast to the rich sauce and beef.

Step 9: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Finally, add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet, gently stirring to coat every piece with the glorious creamy sauce and evenly distribute the savory beef mixture. This fusion is exactly what makes the Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe such a satisfying meal.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if you like. The herbs add a fresh aroma and a splash of color that makes the dish even more inviting.

Step 11: Enjoy!

Serve it hot and take a moment to appreciate all the cozy, comforting flavors you’ve just created. Trust me, this recipe is destined to become a beloved classic in your kitchen.

How to Serve Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

While the fresh parsley is a lovely touch, you can also try sprinkling some extra Parmesan cheese on top or adding a dash of crushed red pepper flakes if you crave a hint of heat. These little extras elevate the experience, turning the dish into something special.

Side Dishes

This meal pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a simple crusty baguette also make excellent companions, perfect for soaking up every last bit of that creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the pasta in individual bowls and garnish each with a sprig of fresh basil or a drizzle of truffle oil. If you’re hosting, a family-style plated pasta on a large serving dish surrounded by colorful roasted vegetables can become an impressive centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing to preserve its flavor and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze leftovers by placing them in a freezer-safe container. This dish freezes nicely for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over medium-low heat with a splash of beef broth or cream to refresh the sauce’s creaminess. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals to ensure even warming without drying out the pasta.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is ideal because it holds the sauce beautifully, other sturdy pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or fusilli will work just as well.

Is it possible to make this dish with ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Definitely! Ground turkey or chicken can substitute for ground beef for a lighter version, though you may want to add a bit more seasoning to boost flavor.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free or gluten-free?

Yes, by using dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives alongside gluten-free pasta, you can enjoy a similar creamy texture and taste suited to dietary needs.

How do I prevent the sauce from splitting when adding cream?

Make sure to add the heavy cream over low heat and stir constantly to gradually blend it in, which helps maintain a smooth, creamy sauce without curdling.

Can this recipe be doubled for a crowd?

For sure! Doubling everything works well; just make sure to use a large enough skillet or pot to keep the ingredients from overcrowding and to stir thoroughly for even cooking.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend the Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe enough — it’s an easy-to-make dish that radiates comfort and deliciousness with every forkful. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites to whip up and savor. So go ahead, try it out, and enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite!

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