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My Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta started as a busy mom solution one evening when I needed something quick but comforting. The combination of tender pasta, perfectly seasoned beef, and that velvety cream sauce has become our family's ultimate comfort dinner. Something magical happens when these simple ingredients come together in one pan, and the best part? It's ready in under 30 minutes.
Simple Kitchen Magic
What makes this dish so special is how it combines everything we love into one skillet. That creamy sauce hugs every piece of pasta while the beef adds such wonderful flavor. My kids love the fun bowtie shapes, and I love how easy cleanup is. My neighbor caught the smell through our kitchen window last week—now she makes it twice a week, says her family cleans their plates every time.
What You'll Need
- The pasta: Eight ounces of bowties—they hold that sauce perfectly.
- Good beef: A pound of lean ground beef keeps everything flavorful, not greasy.
- Fresh aromatics: Sweet onion, plenty of fresh garlic, creates our base.
- Your liquids: Rich beef broth, heavy cream—makes everything silky.
- The cheese: Sharp cheddar or mozzarella—both melt beautifully.
- Seasonings: Italian herbs, salt, pepper, fresh parsley for color.
Let's Get Cooking
- Start with pasta:
- Get your bowties cooking in plenty of salted water until they're just tender. Save a cup of that starchy water before draining.
- Brown the beef:
- While pasta cooks, brown your meat, breaking it up as it cooks. Once it's done, drain off any extra fat.
- Build flavors:
- Add those onions and garlic to your beef, let them get soft and fragrant.
- Make it creamy:
- Pour in your broth, let it bubble, then add cream and seasonings. Watch that sauce come together like magic.
- Bring it all together:
- Toss in your pasta, add cheese, let everything get hot and melty.
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My Kitchen Secrets
After making this countless times, I've learned all the tricks. Always use lean beef or you'll end up with a greasy sauce. Don't overcook your pasta—it'll keep cooking in the sauce. Play with different cheese combinations—sometimes I'll add some Parmesan or Gruyère for extra flavor. Want to sneak in vegetables? Spinach, mushrooms, or peppers blend right in.
Perfect Pairings
We love serving this with a crisp green salad on the side—helps balance all that creamy richness. Some garlic bread on the side for soaking up extra sauce—nobody wants to waste a drop. Sometimes I'll roast some broccoli or asparagus right alongside—makes it feel like a complete meal.
Saving Some For Later
This pasta keeps beautifully in the fridge for about four days—gets even better as those flavors meld. When you're ready to reheat, add a splash of cream or broth—keeps everything smooth and silky. You can even freeze portions—perfect for busy nights, just thaw overnight in the fridge.
Time-Saving Tips
Want to make weeknight cooking even easier? Sometimes I'll brown extra beef when I'm meal prepping—makes this dish come together in minutes. Chop those onions and garlic ahead of time—store them ready to go. You can even make this whole thing in one pot: cook pasta first, then use the same pan for everything else.
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More Than Just Dinner
This creamy beef and bowtie pasta has become our comfort food go-to. It's what I make when someone needs cheering up, when we're celebrating, or just want something warm and satisfying without a lot of fuss. The way it fills the house with those amazing aromas, how everyone gathers in the kitchen asking when dinner will be ready—those are the moments that make cooking so special.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I add vegetables?
Yes, stir in cooked broccoli, peas, or spinach for added nutrition.
- → What cheese works best?
Both cheddar and mozzarella work well. Use your preferred cheese or a combination.
- → How long do leftovers keep?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently.
- → Can I make it spicy?
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give it a spicy kick.
- → What type of pasta can I use?
While bowtie (farfalle) is recommended, other short pasta shapes would work too.
Conclusion
This quick one-pot pasta dish features ground beef and bowtie pasta in a cheesy cream sauce. Ready in 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.