Name: Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta; 1 lb ground beef; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup beef broth; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Hey y'all! If you're looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing dinner that's as creamy as it is satisfying, this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is your new weeknight hero. With tender seasoned beef, perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, and a luscious homemade cream sauce, this dish is pure comfort in a bowl. Whether you're feeding your family, meal-prepping for the week, or hosting a casual get-together, this recipe checks all the boxes for flavor and ease. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Ready in under 40 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights.
Rich, velvety sauce clings to each bite of pasta and beef.
Kid-approved and picky-eater friendly.
Easily adaptable with pantry staples and simple swaps.
Makes great leftovers that taste even better the next day.

Ingredients for Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

12 oz (340g) bowtie (farfalle) pasta
1 lb (450g) ground beef (85% lean recommended)
1 small yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
½ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for pasta water
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoon tomato paste
1 cup (240ml) beef broth
1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
½ cup (50g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
2 tablespoon unsalted butter
2 tablespoon olive oil, divided
2 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions, usually 11-12 minutes, until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-6 minutes until browned and mostly cooked through. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Push the beef to one side and add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Mix in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor. Pour in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for 3-4 minutes.

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the heavy cream and butter, then let the sauce bubble gently for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Finish

Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy beef sauce. If needed, use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and silky. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy hot!

Notes for the Best Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

For extra flavor, try using homemade beef broth or stock—learn how at Simply Recipes.
Grate your own Parmesan for the creamiest sauce; pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly.
Don't skip reserving pasta water—it helps the sauce cling beautifully to the pasta (here's why).

Variations on Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes and a pinch of cayenne for heat.
Mushroom & Beef: Stir in 1 cup of sliced mushrooms with the onions for added umami.
Veggie-Packed: Fold in baby spinach or steamed broccoli just before serving for a nutritious twist.

Equipment Needed for Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Large pot for boiling pasta
Large skillet or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Colander
Cheese grater

Storage Instructions for Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce. Not recommended for freezing, as the sauce may separate.

What to Serve with Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Garlic bread or crusty baguette to soak up the sauce
Mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus
A glass of red wine, such as Merlot or Chianti

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Let the sauce simmer gently after adding cream to prevent curdling (see technique).
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest, creamiest texture.
Cook pasta just to al dente to avoid mushiness when tossed with hot sauce.

FAQ: Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Can I use a different pasta shape?: Absolutely! Penne, rotini, or rigatoni work well if you don't have bowties on hand.
How can I make this dish lighter?: Substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream, and use ground turkey instead of beef.
Can I prepare Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta ahead of time?: Yes! Assemble up to 1 day ahead and reheat gently before serving, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta