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Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

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This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is the definition of comfort food. It delivers everything you want in a one-bowl meal: tender bowtie pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a rich, velvety cream sauce that clings to every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this dish comes together quickly and disappears even faster.

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The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or just craving something hearty, this dish hits the mark. It’s like a homemade version of Hamburger Helper, but so much more flavorful and satisfying.

What Kind of Bowtie Pasta Should I Use?

Go with traditional farfalle pasta (the classic bowtie shape). It holds sauce well, cooks evenly, and offers that iconic shape that makes every forkful a joy. If you’re in a pinch, mini farfalle or even penne will work, but the bowties really do give the dish its signature texture and appeal.

Ingredients for the Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

  • Ground Beef: The savory foundation of the dish, full of flavor and protein.
  • Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle): Cooks to a lovely al dente and grabs the creamy sauce perfectly.
  • Heavy Cream: Adds luscious richness to the sauce.
  • Beef Broth: Deepens the flavor and helps create a savory base.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the sauce for cheesy goodness.
  • Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Provide layered flavor without overpowering.
  • Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning.
  • Olive Oil or Butter: For browning the beef and adding richness.

How To Make the Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

To the cooked beef, add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the heavy cream and stir to combine.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

Lower the heat and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce. Stir everything together until the bowtie pasta is evenly coated. Serve hot with extra black pepper or a sprinkle of cheese if desired.


Serving and Storing Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Serve this dish hot and fresh for the best texture. Leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of cream or broth to bring back the sauce’s creaminess.

What to Serve With Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta?

Garlic Bread

The buttery crunch of garlic bread makes a perfect side to soak up the creamy sauce.

Steamed Broccoli

Adds a healthy green bite that contrasts well with the richness of the pasta.

Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar salad with tangy dressing and croutons pairs beautifully.

Roasted Green Beans

Earthy and crisp, they bring color and balance.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Their deep umami flavor plays well with the creamy beef.

Baked Zucchini Fries

A crunchy, lighter option that’s fun to dip.

Sweet Cornbread

The sweetness of cornbread contrasts the savory beefy pasta wonderfully.


Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta, you’ll definitely want to try these comforting creations:

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add mushrooms or mix in extra cheese? Maybe a pinch of red pepper flakes?

I love seeing your spins on these meals. And questions are welcome too—let’s make dinner better together!

Explore beautifully curated comfort pasta dishes on ChefAlchemy Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next go-to creamy creation.


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Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta


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  • Author: Lorenzo Devereaux
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a fast, comforting dinner that satisfies the whole family. This rich and hearty dish features tender bowtie noodles, seasoned ground beef, and a velvety cheese sauce that pulls it all together. It’s like an upgraded Hamburger Helper but made fresh with real ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner idea, a cozy food idea for chilly nights, or a kid-friendly pasta dish, this recipe fits the bill. It’s perfect for anyone who loves easy recipes, comfort meals, and simple dinner ideas that don’t sacrifice flavor.


Ingredients

12 oz bowtie pasta

1 lb ground beef

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 cup beef broth

1 cup heavy cream

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper


Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook bowtie pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

3. Season the beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

4. Add beef broth to the pan and bring to a simmer. Pour in heavy cream and stir well.

5. Reduce heat and stir in cheddar cheese gradually until melted and sauce is creamy.

6. Add cooked pasta to the sauce. Stir to coat evenly. Serve hot.

Notes

This dish reheats best on the stove with a splash of broth or cream.

You can add mushrooms, spinach, or red pepper flakes for a twist.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 620
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Fat: 38g
  • Saturated Fat: 20g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 115mg

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