Bowtie Pasta With Ground Beef Recipe

Sizzling Bowtie Pasta With Ground Beef Recipe Every Family Loves

Whipping up a satisfying bowtie pasta with ground beef promises a delightful culinary adventure.

Hearty ingredients blend seamlessly in this classic comfort dish.

Pasta shapes add playful texture to every forkful.

Bold flavors dance through each carefully seasoned bite.

You appreciate how quickly this meal comes together.

Simple ingredients create magic in your kitchen skillet.

Savor every moment of this delectable dinner that brings warmth and joy to your table.

Why This Bowtie Pasta Is a Go-To Dinner

Why This Bowtie Pasta Is a Go-To Dinner
  • Family-Friendly Feast: Packed with hearty ground beef, creamy sauce, and familiar pasta shapes that appeal to both kids and adults, guaranteeing clean plates and happy smiles.
  • Quick and Satisfying Meal: One-skillet wonder that transforms basic ingredients into a rich, creamy pasta dish ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for rushed evenings when hunger strikes.

What You’ll Need for Bowtie Beef Pasta

Main Ingredients:
  • Bowtie Pasta: Classic pasta shape with a fun butterfly-like design.
  • Ground Beef: Hearty and flavorful protein for the dish.
  • Diced Tomatoes: Fresh and juicy base for the sauce.
Dairy and Cream Components:
  • Heavy Cream: Rich and smooth ingredient for creamy texture.
  • Shredded Cheese: Melty and delicious topping for extra flavor.
Aromatics and Seasonings:
  • Olive Oil, Onion, Garlic: Classic flavor base for the sauce.
  • Beef Broth, Paprika, Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings for depth and taste.
  • Fresh Parsley: Bright green herb for garnish and freshness.

How to Make Ground Beef Pasta with Ease

How to Make Ground Beef Pasta with Ease

Step 1: Boil Pasta to Perfection

Cook bowtie pasta in salted water according to package directions.

Once tender, drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatic Base

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add:
  • Diced onion
  • Minced garlic

Cook until onions become soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add ground beef to the skillet.

Break meat into small crumbles using a spatula.

Cook until meat is completely browned and no pink remains, approximately 5-7 minutes.

Drain excess fat.

Step 4: Create Flavorful Sauce

Introduce to the skillet:
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Beef broth
  • Paprika
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Bring mixture to a gentle simmer and let it bubble for 5-10 minutes, allowing flavors to develop and merge.

Step 5: Enhance with Cream and Cheese

Reduce heat and pour in heavy cream.

Stir until fully incorporated.

Add shredded cheese and mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Fold cooked bowtie pasta into the creamy beef mixture.

Ensure pasta is evenly coated.

Warm for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Transfer to serving plates.

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top.

Enjoy immediately while hot and creamy.

Tips for Rich, Meaty Pasta Dishes

Tips for Rich, Meaty Pasta Dishes
  • Select high-quality bowtie (farfalle) pasta for the best texture and ability to hold the creamy sauce.
  • Drain excess fat after browning beef, but don't overcook to maintain moisture and rich flavor.
  • Use room temperature heavy cream and slowly stir into the sauce to prevent curdling and ensure smooth consistency.
  • Grate cheese freshly and add gradually while stirring to achieve a silky, even cheese distribution throughout the sauce.
  • Swap pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a lower-carbohydrate version of this comforting dish.

Best Way to Store and Reheat Beef Pasta

  • Transfer leftover bowtie pasta to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Place a damp paper towel over the pasta before sealing the container to maintain moisture and prevent hardening.
  • Warm the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or cream to restore creamy texture. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
  • Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Great Pairings for Bowtie Pasta Recipes

  • Pair with Bold Red Wine: Select a robust Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot that matches the rich, creamy beef sauce's intensity and cuts through the heavy cream's richness.
  • Complement with Fresh Side Salad: Prepare a crisp green salad with light vinaigrette to balance the dish's richness, adding brightness and cutting through the heavy sauce.
  • Create Herbal Contrast: Serve with crusty garlic bread or herb-seasoned focaccia to provide a crunchy texture and herbal notes that enhance the pasta's savory flavors.
  • Match with Tangy Starter: Offer a small appetizer of bruschetta or marinated tomato salad to introduce a zesty element that contrasts with the creamy pasta's warmth.

Style Swaps for Ground Beef Pasta

  • Protein Swaps: Replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option, maintaining similar flavor profiles and cooking techniques.
  • Low-Carb Comfort: Substitute bowtie pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to create a keto-friendly version that reduces carbohydrate content while preserving the creamy sauce's richness.
  • Vegetarian Transformation: Use plant-based ground meat alternatives like Beyond Meat or lentils to craft a meatless version that keeps the original recipe's hearty texture and comforting appeal.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk or almond cream, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives to accommodate lactose-intolerant dietary needs while maintaining the dish's creamy consistency.

FAQs

  • Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute bowtie pasta with penne, fusilli, or rotini. Choose a pasta shape with ridges or curves to hold the creamy sauce better.

  • Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids typically love this creamy beef pasta dish. The mild flavors and cheesy sauce make it appealing to children and easy to eat.

  • Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients like broth and seasonings are gluten-free certified. Check labels carefully to avoid any gluten contamination.

  • How can I make this dish healthier?

Use lean ground beef, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, and add extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to increase nutritional value.

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Bowtie Pasta With Ground Beef Recipe

Bowtie Pasta With Ground Beef Recipe


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4.7 from 33 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Hearty Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef brings classic comfort to your dinner table, blending rich meaty flavors with perfectly al dente pasta. Wholesome ingredients and simple preparation make this dish a delightful choice when you crave a satisfying meal that comes together quickly.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta

Dairy and Cream:

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese

Aromatics and Seasonings:

  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Liquid and Tomato Base:

  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup beef broth

Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Prepare the bowtie pasta according to package guidelines, ensuring a perfectly al dente texture. Drain and reserve.
  2. Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium temperature. Introduce finely chopped onions and crushed garlic, sautéing until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
  3. Incorporate ground beef into the skillet, methodically crumbling the meat using a spatula. Continue cooking until the beef develops a rich, golden-brown color and is thoroughly cooked.
  4. Eliminate any accumulated excess fat from the meat to maintain a clean, robust flavor profile.
  5. Cascade diced tomatoes, beef broth, paprika, salt, and freshly ground pepper into the skillet. Allow the mixture to simmer gently, enabling the ingredients to meld and intensify their collective taste.
  6. Reduce the heat to a low setting. Stream heavy cream into the mixture, stirring continuously to create a smooth, velvety sauce.
  7. Gradually introduce shredded cheese, stirring until completely dissolved and creating a luxurious, creamy consistency.
  8. Gently fold the reserved bowtie pasta into the beef sauce, ensuring each pasta piece is lavishly coated with the rich, creamy mixture.
  9. Warm the pasta through for an additional few minutes to marry the flavors completely.
  10. Transfer to serving plates and embellish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant, aromatic finish.

Notes

  • Control pasta doneness by tasting a piece before draining, ensuring it’s perfectly al dente without being too soft or hard.
  • Drain ground beef thoroughly to prevent excess grease, using a colander or paper towels to remove extra fat.
  • Select high-quality cheese that melts smoothly, like sharp cheddar or mild mozzarella, for a creamy and rich sauce consistency.
  • Adjust cream and broth quantities based on desired sauce thickness, adding gradually to achieve perfect texture and coating for the pasta.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 600
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 50 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Angelina Wiles

Angelina Wiles

Content Editor & Culinary Enthusiast

Expertise

Food Writing and Editing, Vegetarian and Vegan Cuisine, Baking and Pastry Arts, Sustainable Cooking Practices​

Education

Portland Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Emphasis on sustainable cooking practices, vegetarian cuisine, and food writing.​

​Oregon Culinary Institute
Diploma in Baking and Pastry Arts
Focus: Specialized training in artisanal baking, pastry techniques, and dessert presentation.


Angelina’s love for cooking started with handwritten family recipes and weekend trips to farmers’ markets around Portland. She followed her passion with a Certificate in Culinary Arts from Portland Community College, then perfected her sweet side with a Diploma in Baking and Pastry Arts at Oregon Culinary Institute.
Angelina believes recipes should feel like a conversation, not a science project. She’s all about helping readers trust themselves in the kitchen with simple steps, fresh ideas, and easy twists on classic meals.
When she’s not editing recipes, she’s baking bread, sipping coffee, or getting inspired by the changing seasons.

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