Creamy Beef & Bowtie Pasta

A rich, comforting one-skillet meal that brings together tender ground beef, al dente bowtie pasta, and a luxuriously creamy cheese sauce infused with garlic, onion, and paprika. Ready in just 30 minutes, this hearty dish is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or anytime you want something warm, satisfying, and deeply flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just pasta—it’s comfort with character. The savory depth of well-browned beef meets a velvety sauce made silky with heavy cream and two kinds of cheese. Bowtie (farfalle) pasta holds the sauce beautifully, while onions, garlic, and paprika add warmth and aroma. It’s simple enough for Tuesday night, elegant enough for guests, and always disappears fast.

Perfect for:

• Quick weeknight dinners
• Picky eaters (kids love it!)
• Meal prep with reheatable leftovers
• Cold-weather comfort

Ingredients

(Serves 4)

Main Components

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 recommended for flavor; leaner if preferred)
• 8 oz (225g / ~3½ cups dry) bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced (~½ cup)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (~2 tsp)
• 1 cup (240ml) beef broth (low-sodium if desired)
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (not half-and-half)
• 1 cup (115g) shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
• ½ cup (45g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp smoked or sweet paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins & Garnish

• 1–2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (for heat)
• 1 cup fresh baby spinach, peas, or steamed broccoli
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Stage 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
2. Add bowtie pasta and cook 8–10 minutes, or until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Drain and set aside. Do not rinse—the light starch helps the sauce cling.

✅ Pro Tip: Save ¼ cup of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Stage 2: Sauté Aromatics & Cook the Beef

1. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and sauté 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook 1 minute more, until fragrant.
4. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook 5–7 minutes, until fully browned and no pink remains.
5. Drain excess fat if needed. (Note: Don’t skip browning—this builds flavor!)

Stage 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Pour in beef broth and bring to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
2. Stir in heavy cream, then reduce heat to medium-low.
3. Gradually add cheddar and Parmesan, stirring constantly until melted and smooth (~3–4 mins).
4. Mix in paprika, and season lightly with salt and pepper.
5. Optional: Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños here for heat.

✅ Pro Tip: Use freshly grated cheese—pre-shredded contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.

Stage 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet.
2. Gently stir until every piece is coated in the creamy beef sauce.
3. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water, milk, or broth to reach your ideal consistency.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning—remember, Parmesan and broth are salty!

✅ Optional Boost: Fold in spinach, peas, or broccoli now—they’ll wilt perfectly in the heat.

Stage 5: Serve Warm & Beautiful

1. Spoon into bowls or plates.
2. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness.
3. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

You Must Know

• Don’t overcook the pasta — al dente is key; it finishes cooking in the sauce.
• Use full-fat dairy — low-fat cream or cheese won’t create the same luxurious texture.
• Freshly grate your cheese — trust us, it melts better and tastes richer.
• Reheat gently — high heat can cause cream to separate.

Storage Tips

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Not ideal due to cream base—may separate upon thawing. If freezing, limit to 1 month and reheat slowly.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk, cream, or broth to restore silkiness.

Ingredient Substitutions

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad or garlic bread.
• Top with extra Parmesan or cracked black pepper.
• Serve alongside roasted vegetables or apple slices.
• Great for packed lunches—reheat with care.

Cultural Context

Born from American home kitchens in the mid-20th century, this type of one-pot pasta reflects a tradition of combining pantry staples with bold flavors for fast, filling meals. Inspired by mac and cheese, stroganoff, and beef stroganoff pastas, it’s evolved into a modern classic—where convenience meets indulgence without sacrificing taste.

Pro Tips

• Double the batch — leftovers reheat well and freeze better than most creamy dishes.
• Add veggies early — spinach wilts in seconds; frozen peas need only 1–2 mins.
• Make it heartier — stir in leftover roast beef or mushrooms.
• No skillet big enough? Use a Dutch oven or divide between two pans.
• Label your dish — people will ask for the recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
A: You can, but it doesn’t melt as smoothly. Freshly grated is best for a silky sauce.

Q: Why did my sauce break?
A: Likely overheated or used low-fat dairy. Keep heat low and stir constantly.

Q: Is this gluten-free?
A: Only if using GF pasta and verifying broth labels.

Q: Can I make it ahead?
A: Yes. Reheat gently with liquid to refresh the sauce.

Q: Can I bake it like a casserole?
A: Absolutely! Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F for 20 mins.

Allergy Information

Contains: dairy (cheese, cream), wheat (pasta).
Gluten-free option: Use certified GF pasta.
Nut-free: This recipe is naturally nut-free.
Always check labels—especially on broth and pre-grated cheese.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)

Based on 4 servings

• Calories: 620
• Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Protein: 32g
• Sodium: 780mg

Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on brands and substitutions. Not intended as medical advice.

Final Thought: This dish doesn’t whisper. It arrives steaming, golden, and wrapped in cream—saying everything a good dinner should: “You’re home. You’re fed. You’re taken care of.” That’s how the best meals begin—not with fuss, but with love, one bite at a time.