Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta: A Quick, Comforting Dinner Win

Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long, busy day. It’s quick, hearty, and made in one pot — perfect for when you’re juggling work, family, and the occasional “what’s-for-dinner?” panic.

The combination of tender ground beef, perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce is pure comfort food magic. Whether you’re cooking for a family or just yourself, this recipe saves time without sacrificing flavor. Best of all, it’s ready in just 30 minutes. Let’s just say — it’s the kind of weeknight dinner that makes you look like you’ve got it all together, even when you totally don’t.

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What is Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta?

Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a cozy, one-pot pasta dish that brings together simple pantry ingredients for a meal that’s as satisfying as it is easy. Picture this: savory ground beef browned to perfection, a gentle simmer of diced tomatoes and beef broth, and finally, a swirl of heavy cream that transforms everything into a luscious, cheesy sauce.

It’s part Italian, part all-American comfort food — the kind of recipe that never disappoints picky eaters or pasta lovers. The bowtie pasta, or farfalle, holds that rich sauce beautifully, giving you creamy bites of beefy goodness every time. It’s like your favorite beef stroganoff met mac and cheese and had a delicious little dinner baby.

Reasons to Try Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a pack of ground beef and wondering what on earth to do with it (again), this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is your answer. First, it’s an all-in-one meal — protein, carbs, and creamy comfort in one skillet. Second, cleanup is minimal, which is basically a win for anyone who dreads a mountain of dishes.

Third, it’s family-approved — even the “no sauce, no veggies” kids will eat it without complaints. Plus, it’s customizable: add spinach, peas, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little extra flair. It’s similar in spirit to other comforting dinners like Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta or Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni, but with its own creamy twist that makes it a staple in any weeknight rotation.

Ingredients Needed to Make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

• 12 oz (340g) bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 cups (480ml) beef broth
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups (150g) shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella
• 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions to Make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

If you’ve ever wished dinner could magically appear after a long day — this is pretty close. Here’s a Step-by-Step guide to making Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta that’s so simple, you’ll have dinner ready before your favorite show starts.

Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta

Start your Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Step-by-Step process by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente — firm but tender. This usually takes about 10 minutes, depending on the brand. The key here is not to overcook; you want the pasta to hold its shape when tossed in the sauce later. Once done, drain it but don’t rinse — that light starch coating helps the sauce cling beautifully. If you’d like some pasta cooking tips, check out our Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta, where we share how to achieve perfectly textured pasta every time.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet or deep pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef and diced onion. Let them cook together for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef turns golden brown and the onion softens. You’re looking for a nice, crumbly texture with just a touch of browning — that’s where all the flavor lives. Once browned, toss in the minced garlic and cook for an extra minute. The aroma at this point is heavenly! For even more flavor inspiration, you might enjoy the savory depth of our Ground Beef and Dumplings.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Now it’s time to build that rich, flavorful base. Pour in the diced tomatoes (juice included) and beef broth. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together to mix the seasonings evenly. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5–7 minutes. This Step-by-Step simmering helps the flavors meld beautifully while slightly thickening the sauce. You can also sneak in some finely chopped veggies here — spinach, mushrooms, or peas — to boost nutrition and color, similar to how it’s done in our Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce.

Step 4: Stir in the Cream and Cheese

Reduce the heat to low, and slowly pour in the heavy cream. Stir it in gently and watch as the sauce turns velvety smooth. Next, sprinkle in the shredded cheese a handful at a time, stirring continuously until it melts completely. The mixture should look creamy, luscious, and slightly thickened. This Step-by-Step process transforms a simple sauce into a rich, restaurant-worthy cream sauce. You can use cheddar for a sharp tang or mozzarella for a milder, stretchier texture. Feeling indulgent? Try adding a spoonful of cream cheese like in our Creamy Parmesan Beef Rigatoni for an even silkier finish.

Step 5: Combine with the Cooked Pasta

Now that the sauce is perfection, it’s time to reunite it with the pasta. Add the cooked bowtie pasta directly into the skillet and gently toss to coat every piece in the creamy beef sauce. This Step-by-Step blending allows the pasta to soak up all the flavors. If the sauce feels a bit thick, splash in a little extra beef broth or milk to loosen it up. Don’t rush this step — the more evenly you mix, the better the final dish will taste.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over your finished Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta for a pop of color and freshness. Serve it hot straight from the skillet — it’s best enjoyed warm when the sauce is creamy and smooth. Pair it with a side of crusty garlic bread or a crisp salad for a complete meal. If you love this kind of cozy, one-pan comfort food, you’ll also adore our Mouthwatering One-Pot Lasagna Soup, which brings the same heartwarming vibes with a fun twist.

And there you have it — a Step-by-Step Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta that’s rich, flavorful, and ready in just about 30 minutes. Each step builds on the last, transforming simple ingredients into a meal that feels both indulgent and homey. Once you make it, it’ll quickly join your regular dinner rotation — right alongside your other weeknight favorites!

What to Serve with Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

While Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a complete meal on its own, you can easily dress it up with sides. A simple garlic bread or a light salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds balance to the creamy richness. If you want to go all out, pair it with roasted veggies or steamed broccoli — they soak up that leftover sauce beautifully. And for the ultimate cozy dinner lineup, try serving it alongside something like French Onion Beef Sloppy Joes or a warm bowl of Ground Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce.

Key Tips for Making Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Use freshly grated cheese — it melts better and gives your sauce that perfect creamy pull. Want it a bit lighter? Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even Greek yogurt for extra protein. Don’t skip the smoked paprika; it adds a subtle depth that makes this dish feel restaurant-worthy. Cooking for spice lovers? Stir in a dash of red pepper flakes. And here’s a pro tip: if your sauce thickens too much after adding the pasta, splash in a little extra broth to loosen it.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creaminess — pasta tends to soak up sauce as it sits. You can reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring halfway through. Avoid freezing; cream sauces can separate when thawed, and you’ll lose that smooth, silky texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape? Absolutely! Penne, rotini, or shells work great.
Can I make it gluten-free? Yes — use your favorite gluten-free pasta and adjust cooking time slightly.
What cheese is best? Cheddar gives it bold flavor, but mozzarella melts into a perfect creamy pull.
Can I make it spicy? Toss in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little kick.
Can I add veggies? Definitely. Spinach, peas, or broccoli fit right in without extra fuss.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is everything you want in a weeknight dinner — easy, comforting, and unbelievably delicious. It’s proof that simple ingredients can create something special, even when you’re short on time. Next time you’re tempted to grab takeout, remember this creamy, one-pot wonder waiting to happen in your kitchen. And if you love hearty, family-style meals like this, check out our Ground Beef and Dumplings recipe for another comforting favorite.

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