If you’re craving the ultimate comfort food that’s hearty, cheesy, and unbelievably creamy, this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta will become your new favorite weeknight dinner. With tender farfalle pasta tossed in a rich, velvety sauce made with ground beef, cheddar, Parmesan, and cream, this dish checks all the boxes for an easy, family-friendly meal. It’s a one-pan wonder that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, perfect for busy nights when you still want something satisfying on the table. This cheesy pasta recipe is also a fantastic option for party food or potluck gatherings because it feeds a crowd and tastes even better the next day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Ready in just 30 minutes—ideal for quick weeknight dinners.
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Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor from two kinds of cheese.
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Kid-approved and picky-eater friendly.
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Budget-friendly recipe using pantry staples.
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Perfect as a one-pan meal or paired with sides for a complete dinner.
Ingredient Breakdown
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Ground Beef (1 lb): The hearty protein base that makes this pasta filling and satisfying.
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Bowtie Pasta (8 oz): Also known as farfalle, its shape holds creamy sauce perfectly in every bite.
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Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Adds richness and helps sauté the onions and garlic.
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Onion (1 small, diced): Provides a savory, aromatic foundation for the sauce.
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Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with bold flavor and depth.
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Beef Broth (1 cup): Enhances the beefy taste and creates a base for the creamy sauce.
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Heavy Cream (1 cup): Adds luxurious creaminess to the pasta.
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Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melts into the sauce for sharp, cheesy goodness.
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Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated): Brings nutty, salty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
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Paprika (1 tsp): Adds subtle warmth and a hint of smoky flavor.
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Salt & Pepper (to taste): Essential for balancing and enhancing flavors.
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Fresh Parsley (optional garnish): Adds freshness and color to the finished dish.
Pro Tips
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Salt the pasta water generously to enhance the flavor of the dish.
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Always drain excess fat from the beef to keep the sauce from becoming greasy.
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Reserve ½ cup of pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later.
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Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor.
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Let the pasta rest for 2–3 minutes before serving so the sauce clings perfectly.
Ingredient Swaps & Variations
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Meat Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage instead of beef.
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Cheese Variations: Try mozzarella, Gouda, or provolone for a different flavor profile.
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Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
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Spicy Twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes or swap paprika for smoked paprika.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bowtie pasta or another pasta shape.
Serving Suggestions
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Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete dinner.
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Serve with roasted vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus.
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For a heartier meal, add a side of mashed potatoes or baked potatoes.
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Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley for restaurant-style presentation.
Make Ahead + Storage Tips
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Make Ahead: Cook the pasta and beef ahead of time. Store separately and combine with sauce when ready to serve.
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Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
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Freeze: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Cultural or Historical Notes
Bowtie pasta, also known as farfalle, originates from Northern Italy, where its distinctive shape was designed to hold onto rich sauces. This modern version with ground beef and cheese is an American-Italian comfort food twist that blends hearty protein with creamy indulgence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, penne, rotini, or rigatoni work just as well since they hold sauce nicely.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
Add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or use hot paprika instead of regular.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
How can I thicken the sauce more?
Simmer a little longer to reduce, or stir in 1 teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in water.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months, though the sauce may separate slightly. Reheat with added cream or broth.
Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in beef broth and bring to a simmer. Pour in heavy cream, cheddar, Parmesan, and paprika. Stir until cheese melts and sauce thickens.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir until pasta is coated with sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.