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There’s nothing quite like a warm, creamy bowl of ground beef and bowtie pasta on a chilly evening. It’s rich, hearty, and comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Every bite is packed with tender pasta, seasoned beef, and a velvety cheddar cheese sauce that wraps everything in pure comfort.
Ingredients and What Makes Them Special
- Ground Beef – Lean ground beef works best, as it keeps the dish from becoming greasy while still adding a deep, rich flavor.
- Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle) – The wide, ridged shape of bowtie pasta helps it hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully. If you don’t have farfalle, mini penne or rigatoni make great substitutes.
- Beef Broth – Adds depth and enhances the savory notes of the dish. Use low-sodium broth if you want better control over salt levels.
- Heavy Whipping Cream – The key to achieving that smooth, creamy texture. It creates a luscious sauce that clings to the pasta and beef perfectly.
- Cheddar Cheese – A sharp cheddar brings out the best flavor, but you can also mix in Colby Jack or Monterey Jack for a milder taste.
- Onion & Garlic – These aromatics lay the foundation for the dish, adding a subtle depth of flavor.
- Paprika – A small touch, but it gives the dish a mild smoky undertone that pairs beautifully with the beef.
Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions
- Step 1: Browning the Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. As it starts to brown, toss in the diced onions and minced garlic. Stir frequently, breaking up the beef into smaller crumbles.
- If there's excess grease, drain it to keep the dish from feeling too heavy.
- Season the beef with salt, pepper, and paprika, stirring well so the spices coat everything evenly.
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- Step 2: Adding the Broth and Pasta
- Pour in the beef broth and heavy whipping cream, then bring the mixture to a light simmer.
- Once simmering, stir in the dry bowtie pasta, making sure it’s evenly coated in the sauce. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- The pasta will absorb the broth, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
- Step 3: Melting the Cheese into the Sauce
- Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Mix gently until the cheese fully melts and coats the pasta in a rich, creamy sauce.
- For an extra touch of freshness, sprinkle with chopped parsley or an extra handful of shredded cheese before serving.
You Must Know
- Avoid overcooking the pasta. Once it reaches a tender texture, remove the skillet from heat to prevent mushiness.
- If the sauce thickens too much, stir in a splash of extra broth or cream before serving.
- Use fresh garlic and onion for the best flavor—powdered versions won’t provide the same depth.
Serving and Storing Tips
- Serving Suggestions: This pasta dish is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with simple sides makes it even better:
- 🍞 Buttered toast or garlic bread – Because who doesn’t love soaking up the creamy sauce?
- 🥦 Steamed vegetables – A side of broccoli or green beans balances the richness.
- 🥗 Crisp salad – A fresh Caesar or garden salad adds a nice contrast to the creamy pasta.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: When reheating:
- 🔥 Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or cream before warming it up on low heat.
- 🔥 Microwave: Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between to keep the sauce from separating.
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Pro Chef Tips for the Best Creamy Bowtie Pasta
- Use freshly grated cheese – Pre-shredded cheese has additives that prevent smooth melting.
- Let the pasta rest for 5 minutes before serving – This allows the sauce to thicken slightly, giving you the perfect consistency.
- For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of butter before serving. It enhances the velvety texture and adds a little extra indulgence.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a quick, family-friendly dinner that delivers on both flavor and comfort, this Creamy Ground Beef and Bowtie Pasta is the answer. It’s the kind of meal that’s simple, satisfying, and always hits the spot.
So grab a fork, maybe some buttered toast, and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
- Yes! Penne, rotini, or fusilli work well as substitutes for bowtie pasta.
- → How do I store leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes! Prepare it in advance and reheat on the stovetop, adding a little extra liquid to keep it creamy.
- → What can I add for extra flavor?
- Try adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra depth.
- → Can I make this without dairy?
- You can swap the heavy cream for a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream, but the texture will be slightly different.