Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

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When I need comfort food that hugs the soul without asking too many questions, I turn to this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta. It’s hearty, rich, and filled with the kind of flavors that make you close your eyes and take a long, slow bite. I’ve been making this dish for years, and it never fails to please a hungry table.

There’s something about the way the bowtie pasta cradles the creamy sauce that gets me every time. The beef is perfectly seasoned and browned, the sauce is velvety and indulgent without being too heavy, and the whole thing comes together in just one pan. That’s a huge win for busy evenings when dishes are the last thing I want to deal with.

This recipe is incredibly versatile, too. I’ve made it for cozy family dinners, casual get-togethers, and even meal preps for the week. Every time, it hits the mark. There’s no pretension here, just a deeply satisfying meal that tastes like home.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

It’s a one-pan wonder that saves time and cleanup without skimping on flavor. The creamy sauce is balanced with just the right amount of seasoning and beefiness, and the bowtie pasta adds a playful touch. Whether you’re looking to impress or just feed your crew something delicious, this dish delivers every single time.

Ingredients

Ground beef brings hearty richness and protein to the dish, forming the savory base that balances the creamy sauce. Bowtie pasta, with its charming shape and ridged surface, holds onto the sauce beautifully, ensuring each bite is luxuriously coated.

Cream cheese is the magic that gives the sauce its signature silkiness and slight tang, while heavy cream adds indulgence and a velvety finish. Onion and garlic provide the aromatic foundation, infusing the dish with depth and flavor from the very start.

Tomato paste adds a punch of umami and a subtle sweetness that brightens the overall profile. A touch of beef broth thins the sauce just enough and intensifies the meaty notes. Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning tie everything together with balanced warmth and herbaceous undertones.

How to Make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat to keep the sauce from being too greasy.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Stir in tomato paste and cook for another minute to deepen the flavor.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat and add cream cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Pour in the heavy cream and beef broth, stirring gently to combine everything into a luscious sauce.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, cook the bowtie pasta in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and reserve a bit of pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat every piece in the creamy beef sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs to your taste. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Serve warm.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you’re out of bowtie pasta, penne, rotini, or shells make excellent substitutes and hold the creamy sauce well. You can swap ground beef with ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different protein twist. To lighten things up, use half-and-half in place of heavy cream, or go dairy-free with unsweetened oat milk and plant-based cream cheese.

Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to introduce a fresh or savory layer. If you’re heat-loving, a pinch of red pepper flakes can provide just the right kick. For extra richness, sprinkle in shredded Parmesan before serving.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette to contrast the rich sauce. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for soaking up every bit of creaminess left on the plate. This dish pairs beautifully with a light red wine like Pinot Noir or even a chilled sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing balance.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to bring the sauce back to life. If freezing, do so without the pasta; simply freeze the sauce and boil fresh pasta when ready to serve.

FAQs

Can I make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta ahead of time?

Absolutely. This dish stores and reheats very well, making it great for meal prep or cooking a day in advance.

What can I use instead of heavy cream in Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta?

You can substitute with half-and-half or even whole milk, though the sauce will be a bit lighter. For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based cream alternative.

How do I keep the sauce from being too thick in Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta?

Reserve some pasta water and add it in gradually while mixing the pasta with the sauce until your desired consistency is reached.

Can I add veggies to Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta?

Yes, and I highly recommend it. Spinach, mushrooms, or peas blend in beautifully with the creamy texture and meaty flavor.

Is Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta freezer friendly?

The sauce is! Just freeze the meat sauce on its own and boil fresh pasta when you’re ready to serve.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you’re loving the comfort and creaminess of this pasta dish, you might want to explore something equally satisfying like the Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta, which brings a flavorful Southern kick. Another fantastic dish to check out is this Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta if you’re craving that creamy-cheesy experience in a whole new form.

For a seafood twist, the Easy Creamy Polenta Shrimp Recipe will not disappoint with its buttery corn base and rich topping.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

If you found this Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta recipe comforting and easy to make, don’t forget to pin it to your favorite board on Pinterest. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or looking for a hearty dish to share, this recipe is worth keeping handy. Share it with your friends, family, and anyone who appreciates a quick yet satisfying meal. Every share helps more people discover a new go-to dinner idea!

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