A rich and hearty one-pot dish, this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is everything I want in a comforting weeknight dinner. With tender ground beef, bowtie pasta, and a luxuriously creamy tomato-based sauce, this recipe delivers both convenience and flavor in every bite. It’s quick to make, packed with protein, and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or saving as leftovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this meal comes together so effortlessly in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. The combination of ground beef, tomatoes, and Italian seasoning gives the dish a robust and savory depth, while the addition of cream and melty cheese adds a luscious, silky finish. It’s family-friendly, adaptable, and satisfying enough to serve on its own or with a simple side salad or garlic bread. I also appreciate how easily I can switch up ingredients depending on what I have in the fridge.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lb ground beef
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1/2 cup tomato sauce
3/4 cup beef broth
1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
I start by cooking the bowtie pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package directions. Once it’s done, I drain and set it aside.
In a large skillet or deep sauté pan, I heat the olive oil over medium heat. I add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
I stir in the chopped onion and garlic, letting them sauté for about 2–3 minutes until the onion softens.
Next, I season the mixture with Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if I’m using them).
I pour in the diced tomatoes (including their juices), tomato sauce, and beef broth, then stir and bring everything to a simmer.
I reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly.
After that, I stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes.
I add the drained pasta into the skillet, tossing everything until the noodles are well-coated.
Then, I stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until they melt into the sauce and it becomes creamy.
I remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve it warm.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 6 generous servings.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories: Approximately 520 kcal per serving
Variations
I like swapping ground beef with ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different protein profile.
For a vegetarian twist, I’ve used mushrooms and zucchini in place of the meat.
If I’m craving more spice, I add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
I sometimes mix in a handful of spinach or kale right before serving for added greens.
Switching out the mozzarella for a sharper cheese like provolone or fontina gives the dish a fun twist.
Storage/Reheating
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, I use the microwave or warm it on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. I avoid freezing this dish, as the creamy texture can break down after thawing.
Related Recipes:
- Creamy Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Bowtie Casserole
- Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta
- Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet
FAQs
How can I make this dish lighter?
I often use lean ground beef and swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a plant-based milk like unsweetened almond or coconut cream. Skipping the extra cheese also lightens it up a bit.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely. I’ve used penne, rotini, and even rigatoni when I didn’t have bowties on hand. Any short pasta shape works great.
What can I serve with this?
I usually pair it with a green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A glass of red wine complements the rich flavors really well too.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! It’s creamy, cheesy, and mild (unless I go heavy on the red pepper flakes). Kids usually love it, especially with the fun bowtie pasta.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Definitely. I’ve made this a day ahead, and it reheats beautifully. I just hold off on adding the cheese until I’m ready to reheat and serve.
Conclusion
This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta has become one of my go-to comfort meals. It’s simple, flavorful, and brings everyone to the table. Whether I’m cooking for my family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe delivers on taste and convenience every time.
📖 Recipe:
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Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is the ultimate one-pot comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights. Featuring tender ground beef, bowtie pasta, and a creamy tomato-based sauce, it’s a rich and satisfying meal the whole family will love. Quick, hearty, and loaded with flavor, this pasta dish is a must-try for fans of easy pasta recipes.
Ingredients
12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1/2 cup tomato sauce
3/4 cup beef broth
1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
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Stir in chopped onion and garlic; sauté for 2–3 minutes until onion softens.
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Add Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
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Stir in diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
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Simmer for 10 minutes to thicken and develop flavor.
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Add heavy cream and simmer for 2–3 more minutes.
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Stir in cooked pasta and toss to coat.
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Add mozzarella and Parmesan, stirring until melted and creamy.
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Remove from heat, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
Swap ground beef for ground turkey, sausage, or mushrooms for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Add greens like spinach or kale at the end for extra nutrients.
Use different pasta shapes such as penne or rotini.
Leftovers reheat well with a splash of broth or cream.
Avoid freezing as the creamy sauce may separate.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop / One-pot
- Cuisine: American / Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: ~520 kcal per serving
