Name: Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; ½ cup medium onion, diced; 2 teaspoons minced garlic; Salt, to taste; Pepper, to taste; 1 teaspoon paprika; 3 cups beef broth; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 3 cups bowtie pasta (farfalle), dry measurement; 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; Garnish: fresh parsley and extra shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 78 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you absolutely must try this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe. It’s a delightful blend of tender ground beef, rich creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta that comes together in less than 30 minutes. The creamy texture paired with sharp cheddar and a hint of paprika creates layers of comforting flavors that family and friends will adore. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this recipe brings simplicity and satisfaction that’s hard to beat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large white pot with blue handles sits on a small wooden board on a white marbled surface. Inside the pot, on the left side, there is a mound of raw ground meat with a pinkish-red color. To the bottom right of the meat, small white onion pieces and some yellow minced garlic rest next to a few drops of red oil. Surrounding the pot, from left to right, are bowls and containers: a glass bowl of shredded orange-yellow cheese, a small bowl with red powder, two small glass salt and pepper shakers, a clear bowl filled with yellow bow-tie pasta, and a large clear measuring cup filled with dark brown broth. A striped white and gray cloth lies underneath some of the bowls on the left side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the ingredients for this dish is wonderfully straightforward. Each component is carefully chosen to build the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color that makes this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe so special.

1 pound lean ground beef: Provides hearty protein and a flavorful base for the sauce.
½ cup medium onion (diced): Adds sweetness and depth to the savory profile.
2 teaspoons minced garlic: Brings aromatic warmth that elevates the dish.
Salt (to taste): Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
Pepper (to taste): Adds a gentle kick to balance the creaminess.
1 teaspoon paprika: Infuses subtle smokiness and vibrant color.
3 cups beef broth: Serves as the savory cooking liquid that enriches the pasta.
1 cup heavy whipping cream: Delivers the luscious cream sauce that coats every bowtie beautifully.
3 cups bowtie pasta, farfalle (dry measurement): Provides the fun, textured pasta perfect for holding the sauce.
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Adds melty, sharp goodness that ties everything together.
Fresh parsley and extra cheese (optional garnish): Freshness and extra cheesiness to finish your masterpiece.

How to Make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef, diced onions, and minced garlic. Stir constantly to break up the beef into small crumbles, cooking until the beef is no longer pink and the onions soften. This step builds the savory foundation and infuses the dish with fragrant aromas that invite you to the kitchen. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and paprika to enhance the flavors and introduce a subtle smokiness.

Step 2: Add Liquids and Bowtie Pasta

Once your beef mixture is perfectly browned and seasoned, pour in the beef broth and heavy whipping cream. This combination creates the luscious base for the creamy sauce. Then stir in the dry bowtie pasta directly into the skillet. Bring everything to a boil to start the cooking process for the pasta, then immediately reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. This ensures the pasta cooks evenly while absorbing the rich flavors of the sauce.

Step 3: Simmer and Stir

Cover your skillet and let the pasta simmer for 10-12 minutes. Make sure you stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom — this helps the bowties cook perfectly and soak up the liquid. By the end of this step, most of the broth and cream should be absorbed, and the sauce will have thickened into a creamy consistency that clings beautifully to every noodle.

Step 4: Finish with Cheddar Cheese

Lower the heat to its gentlest setting and sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir just until the cheese melts into the pasta, creating that irresistible gooey texture everyone loves. At this stage, your Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe is ready to delight — warm, cheesy, and packed with comforting flavors that feel homemade.

How to Serve Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe

A round enameled pot with blue handles is shown from above on a white marbled surface with a wooden board underneath. Inside the pot, there are three main layers: on the left and filling most of the pot, an orange-yellow broth with a slightly creamy texture; in the center, a pile of dry bow-tie pasta with light yellow color sitting on top of the broth; on the right, dark browned ground meat forming a compact portion. A red slotted spatula rests across the pot, partially touching the ground meat and broth. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate this dish, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top along with a bit more shredded cheese if you’re feeling indulgent. The parsley adds a pop of color and fresh herbaceous notes, balancing the richness of the creamy sauce beautifully and making your plate look as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

Pair this creamy pasta with a refreshing green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a balanced meal. A crusty baguette or garlic bread is also perfect for soaking up any extra sauce, turning this simply perfect pasta into a full feast everyone will savor.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch. You can also top with a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs ts for added texture. These little details make the dish feel extra special whether for a casual dinner or entertaining guests.

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 it cools to room temperature before sealing to retain the texture and flavor, keeping your meal ready for an easy and satisfying next-day lunch or dinner.

Freezing

This dish freezes nicely if you want to save portions for later. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and it will stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor upon reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of beef broth or cream if the sauce seems too thick. This will bring your Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe back to that luscious, fresh-from-the-pan consistency everyone loves.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is ideal for holding the creamy sauce, you can swap in penne, rotini, or shells if that’s what you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to match your pasta shape.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe freezes very well. Make sure to store it in airtight containers and thaw properly before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Can I make this recipe with ground turkey instead of beef?

Definitely! Ground turkey can be a lighter alternative that still works wonderfully. Just follow the same cooking steps, but keep an eye on the cooking time as it may cook slightly faster than beef.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream, and use a vegan cheese alternative. The flavors will still be creamy and satisfying, just with a different twist.

What’s the best way to avoid pasta sticking during cooking?

Stir the pasta occasionally during the simmering process and keep the heat gentle. This helps the pasta cook evenly and prevents it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe is the kind of meal you’ll want to make again and again. It’s comforting without being complicated, indulgent yet balanced, and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or cozying up solo. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and share it with the people you love — it’s truly a dish that feels like home on your plate.

Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

How to Make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe