Creamy Beef Bowtie Pasta

This Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef has become my ultimate dinner solution on those crazy weeknights when time isn't on my side. I discovered this recipe during my busiest season at work and it's been a lifesaver ever since. The pasta comes out perfectly tender every time while the ground beef and creamy sauce create this incredible comfort food moment that my whole family looks forward to. Best part? It only takes 30 minutes from start to finish.

A True Kitchen Lifesaver

You know those recipes that just work? This is definitely one of them. I love how it uses ingredients I always have in my pantry. My kids actually cheer when they smell it cooking and my husband keeps sneaking spoonfuls while I'm finishing up. The creamy sauce hugs every little bowtie pasta perfectly and honestly it tastes even better the next day if you manage to have any leftovers.

What Goes Into My Shopping Cart

• Bowtie Pasta: One 12 oz box works magic here. Sometimes I grab an extra box because leftovers disappear fast in my house.
• Ground Beef: I usually go for lean but regular works just fine. Turkey is great too when we're feeling lighter.
• Olive Oil: Just a splash to get things going.
• Onion and Garlic: Fresh is best here. I keep pre chopped onions in my freezer for busy days.
• Diced Tomatoes: One can is perfect. In summer I use fresh ones from my garden.
• Beef Broth: This adds such nice depth to the sauce.
• Heavy Cream: Makes everything silky smooth. Light cream works too.
• Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my go to but Parmesan works wonders too.
• Paprika: Adds this lovely warmth and gorgeous color.

Making Your Pasta Magic

Start With Your Pasta

Fill your biggest pot with water add a good pinch of salt and get your bowties cooking. I usually take them out a minute before the package says they're done. They'll finish cooking in our sauce and trust me it makes a difference.

Get Your Base Going

While the pasta does its thing warm up some olive oil in your favorite skillet. Toss in those diced onions until they get soft and sweet then add your garlic. The smell in your kitchen right now will be amazing.

Make It Meaty

Add your ground beef and break it up with your spoon. I love watching it turn from pink to golden brown. Once it's all cooked drain off the extra fat nobody needs that swimming in their sauce.

Create Your Sauce

Now comes the good part. Pour in those tomatoes beef broth and sprinkle in your paprika. Let everything get friendly in the pan for a few minutes. Your kitchen will smell like heaven.

Time for Creamy Goodness

Turn down the heat and pour in your cream. Add that cheese and watch it melt into the most beautiful sauce. Sometimes I can't help but sneak a taste test.

Bring It All Together

Toss in your pasta and let it dance around in that sauce for a couple minutes. Every little bowtie gets coated in creamy beefy goodness.

Getting It Just Right

After making this countless times in my kitchen I've learned what works. Keep an eye on your pasta you want it with just a little bite left. Skip the pre shredded cheese and grate your own it melts so much better. If your sauce feels thick add splashes of broth until it's just right. A tiny spoonful of sugar in the sauce balances everything perfectly something my Italian grandmother taught me.

Make It Your Own

Some nights I switch things up based on what's in my fridge. Ground turkey makes it lighter and my family doesn't even notice the difference. Last week I tossed in some baby spinach and mushrooms I needed to use up. It was fantastic. My gluten sensitive friend loves it with chickpea pasta and when I'm feeling fancy I'll grab some smoked gouda instead of regular cheese.

Time to Serve It Up

I love serving this in my favorite pasta bowls. They're these beautiful wide dishes that show off all those pretty bowties swimming in sauce. A sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra cheese on top makes it look like something from a restaurant. My family loves it with crusty garlic bread for soaking up every last drop of sauce. When friends come over I open a bottle of red wine and put together a quick side salad with my lemon vinaigrette.

Saving Some For Later

This pasta keeps beautifully in the fridge. I store it in my glass containers and it stays perfect for quick lunches during the week. Just splash in a little milk when you reheat it to bring back that creamy texture. Sometimes I make a double batch and freeze portions in my meal prep containers. Such a lifesaver on those nights when cooking feels impossible.

Questions From My Kitchen to Yours

Can't find bowties at your store? No worries any short pasta works beautifully here. My dairy free friends use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and it turns out amazing. Want to prep ahead for a dinner party? Make everything but slightly undercook the pasta. When you reheat add a splash of cream and it'll taste freshly made.

Fun Ways to Switch It Up

My kitchen is like my playground and this recipe loves to play along. Sometimes I add a pinch of chili flakes when I'm craving heat. Last month I made it for my vegetarian sister using plant based ground meat and veggie stock. It was such a hit she asked for the recipe. I've even tried it with those colorful vegetable pastas. The spinach bowties gave it such a gorgeous green tint.

Good for You Too

This pasta dish isn't just tasty it's packed with good stuff too. The meat gives you that protein boost you need after a long day. I love how the sauce sticks to every bite giving you that perfect balance of flavors. When I'm feeling extra healthy I toss in whatever vegetables are in season. My kids don't even notice they're eating their greens when they're wrapped in this creamy sauce.

Your New Meal Prep Friend

Sunday meal prep has become so much easier since I discovered this recipe. I usually make a big batch while catching up on my favorite shows. Pack it up in portions and suddenly lunches for the week are sorted. The sauce stays creamy and delicious which is pretty rare for pasta dishes. Such a relief to have something this good waiting in the fridge on busy days.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use different types of pasta?

While bowtie pasta works best for holding the sauce, you can use other short pasta shapes like penne or rotini. The cooking time might vary slightly depending on the pasta shape.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

You can easily add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Cook them with the onions and garlic at the beginning for the best flavor.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half or whole milk can work instead of heavy cream, though the sauce won't be as rich. Just be careful not to let it boil to prevent curdling.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare this dish ahead and reheat it gently on the stovetop. Add a bit of cream or broth while reheating to restore the creamy texture.

Conclusion

This filling pasta dinner combines tender bowtie pasta with seasoned ground beef in a rich, creamy tomato sauce. It's quick to make and uses simple ingredients for a meal everyone will love.