Description
This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a comforting and hearty dish combining savory ground beef, tender bowtie pasta, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce flavored with garlic, onion, and paprika. Ready in just 30 minutes, it makes for a perfect weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Dairy
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Spices and Garnish
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is fully browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Seasoning and Broth: Stir in the paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer, allowing it to reduce slightly for about 3 minutes.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet with the creamy beef mixture. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.
- Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy beef and bowtie pasta!
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor compared to pre-grated varieties.
- Pasta water can be reserved and added to thin the sauce if it becomes too thick.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference, adding more paprika for a smoky depth or red pepper flakes for heat.
