Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stirred the creamy sauce for the Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef, memories of cozy family dinners flooded back. This dish marries the playful charm of bowtie pasta with tender ground beef, all wrapped in a velvety sauce that whispers comfort and warmth. With a cooking time of just 30 minutes, it’s a quick meal that doesn’t skimp on heartiness, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or intimate gatherings. Plus, it’s incredibly customizable—whether you’re adding extra veggies or adjusting the spice level, the options are limitless. Are you ready to dive into this delicious journey? Let’s whip up a bowl of joy together! Why is this dish a weeknight favorite? Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that the whole family will love. Hearty Flavor: The savory ground beef combined with a creamy sauce delivers a burst of deliciousness in every bite. Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or pasta shapes, like penne or fusilli, to personalize your dish. Comforting and Satisfying: Perfect for those cozy nights at home, this creamy pasta will warm your heart and fill your belly. And if you’re seeking more quick meal ideas, check out my Ground Beef Tostadas or Cheesy Beef Wraps for delicious variations! Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Ingredients For the Pasta • Bowtie Pasta – Adds a playful texture that kids will love; easily swap for any preferred pasta shape. For the Meat Sauce • Ground Beef – Provides a robust flavor; opt for lean ground turkey for a lighter version. • Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing; can be replaced with any cooking oil on hand. • Onion (diced) – Brings sweetness and depth; shallots can be used for a milder taste. • Garlic (minced) – Adds a fragrant aroma; fresh is best, but garlic powder works too in a pinch. • Diced Tomatoes (canned) – Contributes acidity and juiciness; use fresh tomatoes in season for a vibrant alternative. • Beef Broth – Forms the savory base for the sauce; substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter option. • Heavy Cream – Creates that luscious, creamy texture; half-and-half or whole milk can lighten it up. • Shredded Cheddar or Parmesan Cheese – Enhances creaminess; mozzarella or Gouda also provides a delicious twist. • Paprika – Infuses warmth and a subtle smokiness; swap with chili powder for some extra heat. • Salt and Pepper – Key for seasoning; adjust to taste for your family’s preference. For Garnish • Fresh Parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness; basil or cilantro make lovely alternates too. Dive into this delightful recipe for Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef, and enjoy the rich flavors that make it a family favorite! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Step 1: Cook the Pasta Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside, allowing any excess moisture to escape while you prepare the sauce. Step 2: Cook the Beef In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Be sure to drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep your dish light and flavorful. Step 3: Add Vegetables Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This step enhances the overall flavor of your Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef, creating a warm and inviting aroma. Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes & Broth Stir in the canned diced tomatoes and beef broth into your skillet mixture. Allow the sauce to come to a simmer, reducing the heat slightly. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully together while the sauce thickens and develops a rich taste. Step 5: Create the Sauce Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, followed by the shredded cheese of your choice. Stir the mixture until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Season the sauce with paprika, salt, and pepper according to your taste, adjusting for optimal flavor. Step 6: Combine Pasta & Sauce Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the drained bowtie pasta to the creamy beef sauce in the skillet. Toss everything gently to coat the pasta evenly, heating for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is warmed through and inviting. The pasta will soak up the rich flavors of the sauce perfectly. Step 7: Serve To complete your meal, scoop the creamy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef onto plates or into bowls. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and relish in the delighted expressions of your family and friends as they dig into this delightful dish. Make Ahead Options These Creamy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sauce—including the sautéed beef, onions, garlic, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and heavy cream—up to 3 days in advance, keeping it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully for even more delicious results. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce gently in a skillet over medium heat, cook the pasta until al dente, and then combine them for a comforting meal that tastes just as fresh. Trust me, with these make-ahead options, you’ll enjoy a hearty dinner with minimal effort on busy weeknights! What to Serve with Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Set the stage for a delightful meal that combines warmth, flavor, and comfort in every bite. Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery goodness of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce, enhancing every mouthful. Caesar Salad: A crisp, refreshing Caesar salad adds brightness and crunch, balancing the richness of the pasta beautifully. Steamed Broccoli: Its tender texture and vibrant color not only add nutrients but also bring a luscious contrast to the creamy dish. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies provides hearty flavors and natural sweetness, making for a colorful and healthful pairing. Red Wine: A smooth, fruity red wine effortlessly complements the savory notes of the ground beef while elevating the overall dining experience. Lemon Sorbet: A light, refreshing lemon sorbet can cleanse the palate after this creamy, rich meal—perfect for a sweet finish. Dive into this delicious journey with your Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef, and let these sides be the perfect companions for a memorable meal! Expert Tips for Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef • Quality Meat Matters: Use lean ground beef to minimize excess fat; ground turkey is an excellent alternative for a lighter dish. • Perfect Pasta: Avoid overcooking your bowtie pasta! Aim for al dente, as it will continue cooking when combined with the sauce. • Say Yes to Veggies: Incorporate spinach, bell peppers, or even mushrooms for added nutrition and a delightful flavor boost. • Season Wisely: Taste your sauce as you go, adjusting salt and pepper to suit your palate and enhance the overarching flavors of the Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef. • Creative Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months for a quick meal later. Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Variations Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own! Different Pasta Shapes: Swap farfalle with penne or fusilli. Each pasta shape brings its unique texture, adding a fun twist to your meal. Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or cooked lentils for a nutritious, meat-free version that’s just as hearty. Spicy Kick: Introduce red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños during the beef cooking process for an extra dose of heat. Adjust to your spice tolerance for the perfect level of kick. Creamy Spinach Addition: Stir in a few handfuls of fresh spinach just before serving. It wilts beautifully and elevates the dish with vibrant color and additional nutrients. Italian Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning or a splash of balsamic vinegar to the sauce for a delicious aromatic twist. This complements the creamy sauce wonderfully. Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the sauce and cook the pasta separately in advance. Just combine before serving for a quick weeknight meal that saves you time. Family Style: Serve it up in a large baking dish topped with additional cheese, then broil it for a few minutes for a bubbling, cheesy crust. This makes for an inviting family-style dinner. For more ideas on how to creatively use ground beef, be sure to check out my savory Beef Chow Mein or crunchy Oven Baked Beef Taquitos. Happy cooking! How to Store and Freeze Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s fully cool before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking! Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen. Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or cream to restore creaminess. Chilling Before Storing: Let the Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef cool completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation, ensuring it stays flavorful and delicious. Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right ripeness of tomatoes for this recipe? Absolutely! When selecting tomatoes for your Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef, look for canned diced tomatoes that are vibrant in color, free from dark spots, and have a solid texture. If using fresh tomatoes, choose ones that are firm and fragrant, avoiding any with blemishes or overly soft spots, as these may affect the dish’s flavor and texture. How should I store leftovers of Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef? For optimal freshness, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the pasta is completely cool before sealing the container to prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess. I often recommend labeling the container with the date for easy tracking! Can I freeze Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef, and how do I do it? Yes, you can definitely freeze it! To freeze, allow the Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef to cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags. Be sure to push out as much air as possible and label with the date. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth or heavy cream to bring back its creamy goodness. What should I do if my sauce turns out too thick? Very! If your sauce thickens more than desired, gradually stir in a little beef broth or heavy cream while heating it on low. Start with a tablespoon and mix until you achieve the desired consistency. This step not only thins the sauce but also enhances its creamy texture and delicious flavor! Are there any dietary considerations for Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef? Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, consider using gluten-free pasta for those with gluten sensitivities. For dairy-free options, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Additionally, if you have vegan eaters, swap out the ground beef for lentils or plant-based meat alternatives and ensure the cheese used is dairy-free! How can I enhance the flavor of my Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef? To boost flavor, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of Italian seasoning to the sauce. You can also freshen it up with chopped herbs like basil or oregano. Another fun twist is to toss in some sautéed bell peppers or spinach during the cooking process for a deliciously colorful and nutritious addition! Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef: A Creamy Comfort Classic Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef is a creamy, hearty dish perfect for cozy family dinners, made in just 30 minutes. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 600 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta8 ounces Bowtie Pasta Easily swap for any preferred pasta shape.For the Meat Sauce1 pound Ground Beef Opt for lean ground turkey for a lighter version.1 tablespoon Olive Oil Can be replaced with any cooking oil on hand.1 medium Onion (diced) Shallots can be used for a milder taste.2 cloves Garlic (minced) Fresh is best, but garlic powder works too.14.5 ounces Diced Tomatoes (canned) Use fresh tomatoes in season for a vibrant alternative.1 cup Beef Broth Substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter option.1 cup Heavy Cream Half-and-half or whole milk can lighten it up.1 cup Shredded Cheddar or Parmesan Cheese Mozzarella or Gouda also provides a delicious twist.1 teaspoon Paprika Swap with chili powder for extra heat.to taste Salt and Pepper Adjust to taste for your family's preference.For Garnish2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Basil or cilantro make lovely alternates. Equipment Large Potskilletcolander Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsBegin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.Stir in the canned diced tomatoes and beef broth into the skillet mixture. Allow the sauce to come to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes.Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream and shredded cheese. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.Add the drained bowtie pasta to the creamy beef sauce in the skillet. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly, heating for an additional 2-3 minutes.Scoop the creamy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef onto plates or into bowls. Garnish each serving with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg NotesThis dish is perfect for busy weeknights and can be easily customized with extra veggies or alternative pasta shapes. Leftovers can be stored for up to 4 days in the fridge or frozen for 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
