Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta: 7 Steps to Comforting Goodness

Name: Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta: 7 Steps to Comforting Goodness
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz bowtie pasta; 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup beef broth; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

June 7, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh, let me tell you about creamy beef and bowtie pasta! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, combining tender, savory beef with those adorable bowtie-shaped pasta nestled in a rich, luscious cream sauce. It’s hearty enough to satisfy even the hungriest of diners but still feels comforting and indulgent. Imagine the aroma of sautéed garlic and onions wafting through your kitchen as you whip this up—it’s simply irresistible! Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal, creamy beef and bowtie pasta is sure to become a favorite in your home, just like it has in mine!

creamy beef and bowtie pasta - detail 1

Ingredients

8 oz bowtie pasta
1 lb ground beef
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup beef broth
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

How to Prepare Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Let’s dive into making this delightful dish! It’s really straightforward, and I promise you’ll impress everyone at the table. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to a creamy beef and bowtie pasta that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Cooking the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. You want it to be nice and bubbling! Once it’s boiling, add the 8 oz of bowtie pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes, until al dente. You want that perfect bite! Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Don’t forget to save a little pasta water; it can help loosen the sauce later if needed.

Sautéing the Base

In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in your diced 1 medium onion and sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent and fragrant. This is where the magic begins! Next, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for another minute. You want to be careful here; garlic can burn quickly, and nobody likes that bitter taste!

Browning the Beef

Now it’s time to add in the 1 lb of ground beef. Use your spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Aim for that lovely golden-brown color, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to ensure even browning. As it cooks, you can sprinkle in a bit of salt and pepper to season the meat early on.

Creating the Creamy Sauce

Once your beef is beautifully browned, pour in 1 cup of beef broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it reduce for about 5 minutes—this concentrates the flavors! Now, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and sprinkle in 1 tsp of Italian seasoning. Stir everything together and let it simmer for another few minutes until it thickens up nicely. Trust me, the aroma will drive you wild!

Combining Ingredients

Time to bring it all together! Add the cooked bowtie pasta and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Toss everything together gently until the pasta is beautifully coated in that creamy sauce. If it seems a bit thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and achieve that perfect consistency.

Final Adjustments

Give your dish a final taste test! You might want to adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper. Cook everything for another 2-3 minutes until it’s heated through. Once done, serve it hot and don’t forget to garnish with some freshly chopped parsley for that pop of color. Enjoy every creamy bite!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional information for creamy beef and bowtie pasta. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but this should give you a solid idea:

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 600
Total Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 30g

These estimates will help you plan your meal, but remember, the joy of cooking is all about enjoying what you make! Happy cooking!

Tips for Success

Alright, folks! Here are my top tips to make sure your creamy beef and bowtie pasta turns out absolutely perfect every time. Trust me, these little tricks can make all the difference!

Don’t rush the browning: When cooking the ground beef, give it enough time to brown properly. This adds a depth of flavor that you just can’t rush! If you overcrowd the pan, it can steam instead of brown, so work in batches if needed.
Salt your pasta water: This step is crucial! Salting the boiling water enhances the pasta’s flavor. Think of it as the first layer of seasoning for your dish—don’t skip it!
Reserve pasta water: Remember that pasta water I mentioned? It’s liquid gold! Adding a splash of it to your sauce can help achieve that silky texture. Start with a tablespoon, and add more if needed.
Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic and herbs! They really elevate the dish and bring out the best flavors. If you can, grab some fresh parsley for garnishing—it makes a world of difference.
Adjust to your taste: Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust seasoning at different stages! This is your dish, so if you love a little more Italian seasoning or extra Parmesan, go for it!
Keep an eye on the heat: When simmering the sauce, make sure it’s at a gentle simmer—not a rolling boil. You want to thicken the sauce without scalding the cream, which can lead to a grainy texture.
Let it rest: If you can, let the dish sit for a couple of minutes after cooking. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully before you dig in!

With these tips, you’ll be on your way to a creamy beef and bowtie pasta that’s rich, flavorful, and totally comforting. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!

Variations of Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Now, let’s get a little creative with this creamy beef and bowtie pasta! There are so many fun ways to switch things up, making it even more exciting each time you whip it up. Here are some of my favorite variations that can take this dish to a whole new level!

Veggie-Packed Delight: Add some color and nutrition by tossing in fresh vegetables! Spinach, diced bell peppers, or even sautéed mushrooms can blend beautifully with the creamy sauce. Just add them in when you sauté the onions for a lovely texture.
Cheesy Bliss: If you’re a cheese lover like me, consider mixing in different cheeses! Try adding a bit of cream cheese for extra creaminess or swap the Parmesan for mozzarella for a gooey, melty finish. Wow, just thinking about it makes my mouth water!
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or fresh chopped jalapeños when cooking the beef. This adds a delightful spicy dimension that pairs wonderfully with the richness of the cream sauce.
Protein Swap: Got ground turkey or chicken on hand? Use it instead of beef for a lighter option! You can also try adding cooked sausage for a flavorful twist. Just remember to adjust your seasoning accordingly!
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate this dish incredibly! Try adding a handful of fresh basil or thyme right before serving for a burst of flavor. It’s like bringing a little garden into your bowl!
Pasta Variety: While bowtie pasta is adorable, don’t be afraid to experiment with different shapes! Fusilli, penne, or even whole wheat pasta can give you a different bite and texture. It’s all about what you have on hand and what you love!

With these variations, you can keep your creamy beef and bowtie pasta fresh and exciting every time you make it. So go ahead, get creative, and make this dish your own! You’ll find a new favorite in no time!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving creamy beef and bowtie pasta, there are so many delightful options to round out your meal! Trust me, these pairings will elevate your dining experience and impress your family or guests. Here are some of my favorite ideas:

Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with warm, buttery garlic bread! It’s perfect for soaking up that luscious cream sauce. Just whip up some homemade garlic butter, spread it on crusty bread, and toast it in the oven until golden and crispy. Yum!
Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad is a fantastic contrast to the creamy pasta. I love a simple mixed greens salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette. It adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the dish.
Steamed Vegetables: Serve a side of steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans to add some vibrant color and nutrition to your plate. A sprinkle of lemon juice or a dash of olive oil can elevate the flavor even more!
Roasted Vegetables: If you’re looking for something a bit heartier, try roasting seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots. The caramelization will enhance their natural sweetness and make them a wonderful complement to the pasta.
Wine Pairing: If you enjoy a glass of wine with your meal, consider pairing this dish with a medium-bodied red wine, like a Chianti or a Merlot. The wine’s acidity will cut through the creaminess beautifully!
Cheesy Garlic Cauliflower Bake: For a comforting side dish, try a cheesy garlic cauliflower bake! It adds a creamy, cheesy element while keeping things slightly lighter. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!

With these serving suggestions, you’ll have a complete and satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. So go ahead, set the table, and enjoy your creamy beef and bowtie pasta with these delicious accompaniments!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? No problem! Storing your creamy beef and bowtie pasta properly will keep it delicious for days. Here’s how I do it:

Storing Leftovers: Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation, which can make your dish soggy. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re not planning to eat it within that time, consider freezing it!
Freezing Instructions: To freeze, portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. It can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just remember to label the containers with the date!

Now, when it comes to reheating, you’ll want to maintain that creamy texture and flavor:

Reheating in the Microwave: If you’re using the microwave, place your pasta in a microwave-safe bowl and add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to help loosen the sauce. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in and heat on medium power in 1-minute increments, stirring in between, until heated through.
Reheating on the Stovetop: For stovetop reheating, place your creamy beef and bowtie pasta in a skillet over low heat. Add a little bit of beef broth or cream to help revive the sauce as it warms. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and prevent sticking. This method helps keep the pasta creamy and delicious!

And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your creamy beef and bowtie pasta even after the first serving. It’s just as tasty the next day, so dig in and savor every bite!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.