Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, offering a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The creamy sauce envelops the bowtie pasta and ground beef, creating a satisfying and hearty dish. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a versatile base that can be customized with various add-ins to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound lean ground beef
½ cup medium onion, diced
2 teaspoons minced garlic
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
3 cups beef broth
1 cup heavy whipping cream
3 cups dry bowtie pasta (farfalle)
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the diced onions and minced garlic over medium heat until no longer pink. Stir to break up the beef into a crumble. Drain off excess grease if desired. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Stir in the beef broth and heavy whipping cream, then add the bowtie pasta. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer.
Cover the skillet and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and the sauce becomes creamy.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Cheese Options: Substitute cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Protein Alternatives: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian version.
Vegetable Add-ins: Incorporate spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to enhance the dish’s nutritional value and flavor.
Spice Level: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to introduce some heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute bowtie pasta with other shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be prepared ahead of time for convenient meals throughout the week.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives, and ensure the beef broth is free from dairy ingredients.

How can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Add chopped vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers during the simmering step to incorporate more veggies into the dish.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as directed.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe is not inherently spicy. However, you can add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to adjust the heat level to your preference.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?

Stir the pasta occasionally during the simmering process and ensure there’s enough liquid in the skillet to cook the pasta evenly.

Can I use low-fat cream?

Yes, you can use low-fat cream or half-and-half, but the sauce may be slightly less rich and creamy.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to increase the spice level.

Conclusion

Creamy Ground Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a delightful and satisfying dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. Its simplicity and versatility make it a go-to recipe for busy nights or when you crave a hearty meal. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients to make it your own.