Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta

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The ultimate comfort food for any night of the week, this Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta combines rich, seasoned ground beef with a silky cream sauce, all wrapped around al dente bowtie noodles. Gooey mozzarella brings the stretch, while parmesan sharpens every bite with a salty, nutty edge. It’s a one-pan wonder that delivers hearty satisfaction in under 30 minutes. This dish is endlessly adaptable — switch out the meat, mix in extra veggies, or change the pasta shape based on what’s in your pantry. It’s cozy, flavorful, and exactly the kind of meal that makes everyone ask for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this pasta is a creamy crowd-pleaser.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef
12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup reserved pasta water (optional)

Directions:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil or butter. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Season with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 more minute to blend the spices.
Pour in the heavy cream and stir thoroughly. Simmer the sauce for 3 to 4 minutes until it begins to thicken.
Add the cooked pasta and toss everything to combine evenly.
Stir in mozzarella and parmesan cheeses until melted and creamy. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce.
Serve hot with an extra sprinkle of parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 610 kcal | Servings: 4–6 servings

A Comfort Classic: Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes deliver the same kind of instant satisfaction as a warm bowl of cheesy pasta. This Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan isn’t just your average weeknight dinner — it’s a hearty, creamy, flavor-packed meal that hits all the right notes of comfort, ease, and indulgence. Perfectly al dente bowtie pasta (also known as farfalle) is smothered in a velvety cream sauce, infused with savory ground beef, melted mozzarella, and the nutty richness of parmesan cheese.

Whether you’re feeding your family, prepping for the week, or just craving a restaurant-worthy meal at home, this recipe is designed to impress — without the stress. In this article, we’ll explore why this dish deserves a spot in your recipe rotation, how to make it your own, and why both beginners and experienced cooks will love it.

The Story Behind the Dish

Pasta has long been a staple in cuisines around the world, and the combination of beef, cheese, and cream dates back to traditional Italian-American comfort cooking. Inspired by classic flavors like Bolognese and Alfredo, this dish bridges the gap between meat sauce and cheesy pasta bake — without actually baking anything.

Farfalle (bowtie pasta) has been a beloved shape for centuries, originating in Northern Italy. Its ridged, pinched shape is ideal for holding thick, creamy sauces — like the one featured in this recipe. Combined with ingredients that are easy to find in any grocery store, this dish feels gourmet but is incredibly accessible.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

There are countless pasta recipes out there, so what makes this one special? Here are just a few reasons this creamy bowtie pasta with ground beef and cheese continues to be a favorite:

Flavor Explosion: Rich, beefy flavor paired with the stretchy gooeyness of mozzarella and the sharp bite of parmesan — it’s a match made in pasta heaven.
Quick & Easy: The whole dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor: With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create something that tastes like it came from a cozy Italian trattoria.
Family-Friendly: Picky eaters love the creamy, cheesy texture, and the dish is mild enough for younger palates, but can easily be spiced up for adults.
One-Skillet Wonder: Aside from boiling pasta, everything comes together in one pan — fewer dishes to wash means more time enjoying your meal.

Nutritional Benefits (Yes, Really!)

While this dish leans indulgent, it also provides solid nutritional value. Ground beef delivers protein and iron, which are essential for muscle maintenance and energy. Parmesan and mozzarella not only give the dish its creamy texture but also add calcium and additional protein.

Using whole wheat pasta or adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli can increase fiber and nutrients without sacrificing flavor. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken to reduce saturated fat, and opt for light cream or even Greek yogurt for a leaner sauce option.

For those watching portions, this dish is rich enough that a modest serving is satisfying, especially when paired with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.

Versatility and Customization

One of the best things about this dish is how flexible it is. Whether you’re trying to use up pantry ingredients or accommodate dietary preferences, this recipe adapts beautifully:

Meat Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian twist, try plant-based ground meat or sautéed mushrooms.
Cheese Options: Replace mozzarella with provolone for a smoky twist, or add a sprinkle of fontina or gouda for depth.
Pasta Variety: No bowties? No problem. Penne, rigatoni, or shells all work well with creamy sauces.
Add Veggies: Stir in sautéed spinach, kale, peas, or roasted red peppers for a burst of color and nutrition.
Spice It Up: Add more crushed red pepper or a splash of hot sauce if you like it bold.

This ability to tweak the recipe makes it ideal for meal prepping, using leftovers, or accommodating picky eaters and dietary needs.

Ideal Occasions to Serve This Dish

While this pasta is a go-to for quick dinners, it’s versatile enough to serve on many occasions:

Family Dinners: Everyone loves pasta night, and this one keeps both kids and adults happy.
Dinner Parties: The presentation of creamy pasta sprinkled with parmesan and fresh herbs is always a hit.
Potlucks or Gatherings: Easy to double or triple, this dish travels well and stays warm.
Make-Ahead Meals: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days, and they reheat beautifully with a splash of milk or cream.

You can even freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months — a lifesaver for busy weeks.

Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal

To round out the meal, consider pairing this pasta with a few simple sides and drinks:

Garlic Bread: Ideal for scooping up leftover sauce.
Caesar Salad or Mixed Greens: Adds freshness and contrast.
Roasted Veggies: Broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts bring extra nutrients and texture.
Wine Pairing: A medium-bodied red like Merlot, Chianti, or Cabernet Sauvignon complements the beef and creamy sauce beautifully.

Tips for Perfect Results Every Time

While the recipe is straightforward, a few smart tips can make the dish shine every time:

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente. Overcooked pasta becomes mushy once mixed with sauce.
Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that affect melting.
Season as You Go: Build flavor with each step — season the beef, the onions, and the cream for a more layered taste.
Reserve Pasta Water: A splash can loosen the sauce and help it cling to the pasta better.
Finish with Herbs: Chopped parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness to balance the richness.

Make It Kid-Friendly

If you’re cooking for little ones, this dish is already pretty child-friendly — cheesy, creamy, and comforting. However, to make it even more appealing:

Use mild seasonings and skip the red pepper flakes.
Mix in familiar veggies like peas or corn.
Serve with fun-shaped pasta if bowties aren’t a favorite.

For picky eaters, you can blend the sauce to hide veggies or stir in a little tomato sauce for a pink sauce that adds sweetness.

Common Questions About This Recipe

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Use a plant-based cream (like coconut cream or cashew cream) and opt for dairy-free cheese alternatives. It won’t be exactly the same, but it will still be rich and comforting.

Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely. Let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove with a splash of cream or broth.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes. Just use a large enough skillet or Dutch oven to handle the volume. You might need to increase the simmer time slightly when doubling.

Is this spicy?
Not really — the red pepper flakes add a hint of warmth, not heat. You can adjust or omit them to your preference.

Conclusion

This Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan is the ultimate comfort meal — quick, hearty, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. It’s everything you want in a weeknight dinner and more: cheesy, meaty, and rich without being complicated. Whether you’re feeding a busy family, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving a warm bowl of something delicious, this recipe delivers on every front.

It’s one of those meals that gets better every time you make it, as you discover new ways to tweak it to your tastes. So go ahead — save it, print it, pin it — and make this pasta a staple in your kitchen. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a regular in your comfort food rotation.

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