Dinner

Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe

ByElla Hart October 15, 2025October 15, 2025

Introduction

This creamy beef and bowtie pasta is a comforting dish perfect for weeknight dinners. With tender ground beef in a rich, cheesy sauce tossed with farfalle pasta, it’s both satisfying and easy to make.

A close-up of a white bowl filled with creamy pasta dish. The bottom layer shows farfalle pasta with a smooth, slightly glossy yellow color mixed well with chunks of cooked ground beef, which have a rich brown texture. The creamy sauce coats the pasta and meat evenly, with a light beige color and subtle shine. Small pieces of orange carrot are mixed in the dish, adding some color contrast. On top, a few green herb leaves and a little sprinkle of black pepper add texture and color. The bowl is placed on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp paprika
Salt & pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Boil the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Step 5: Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer.
Step 6: Stir in heavy cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and paprika. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 7: Add the cooked pasta to the beef and sauce mixture. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly.
Step 8: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

Use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey for a lighter version.
Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the skillet for extra nutrition and color.
For a spicier kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes with the paprika.
Try swapping cheddar cheese for mozzarella for a milder, gooier sauce.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

How to Serve

A close-up of a deep white bowl filled with creamy pasta made with bow-tie noodles, covered in a thick, light brown sauce speckled with black pepper. Scattered throughout the pasta are medium-sized chunks of browned sausage and small pieces of orange carrots. Fresh green herbs are sprinkled on top, adding a touch of color. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and the overall look is warm and inviting, with a rich texture visible in the sauce and meat. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free bowtie pasta or any other gluten-free pasta variety to keep the dish safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely. You can cook the pasta and beef mixture ahead of time and refrigerate separately. Combine and reheat just before serving for best texture and flavor.