Searching for a quick, one-pot dinner that satisfies the whole family? Look no further! This creamy beef and bow tie pasta recipe is the perfect go-to meal for busy families, pasta enthusiasts, and anyone who can't resist comforting, hearty dishes.
Packed with rich flavors and creamy goodness, this recipe combines simple ingredients to create a weeknight winner. Plus, it’s an absolute breeze to prepare—ready in just under 30 minutes!
Read on for everything you need to whip up this delicious dish, including ingredient tips, step-by-step instructions, and variations to suit your taste.
Why This Recipe is a Winner
Before we jump into the step-by-step guide, here’s why creamy beef and bow tie pasta hits all the right notes:
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights—this dish comes together in just 30 minutes.
- Balanced Flavors: The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with the savory beef and tender bow tie pasta.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Customizable: You can add vegetables or additional spices to suit your taste.
Now, let's get cooking!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create the ultimate creamy beef and bow tie pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Pasta and Protein:
- Bow Tie Pasta (Farfalle) – 12 oz
- Ground Beef – 1 lb
Creamy Sauce Base:
- Heavy Cream – 1 cup
- Beef Broth – 1 cup
- Tomato Paste – 2 tbsp
- Butter – 1 tbsp
Seasonings and Extras:
- Garlic (minced) – 2 cloves
- Onion (diced) – 1 small
- Italian Seasoning – 1 tsp
- Salt and Black Pepper – To taste
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – ½ cup
Optional Ingredients:
- Mushrooms (sliced) – 1 cup
- Spinach (chopped) – 1 cup
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Pinch, for a spicy kick
Step-by-Step Recipe
Follow these simple steps to create creamy beef and bow tie pasta that’ll leave everyone wanting seconds!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Beef and Onion
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add butter and allow it to melt. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant (about 1–2 minutes). Next, add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned and no pink remains, then drain any excess grease.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
Stir in the tomato paste, coating the beef evenly. Slowly add the beef broth and heavy cream. Whisk until smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it thicken slightly (about 5 minutes).
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked bow tie pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Lower the heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 5 (Optional): Add Veggies or Heat
If using mushrooms or spinach, stir them in and allow to cook for a couple of minutes until tender. For a spicy twist, sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove from heat and garnish with additional Parmesan and fresh parsley, if desired. Serve warm and watch it disappear in no time!
Tips for the Best Pasta
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep it al dente to avoid mushy results.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan and minced garlic elevate the dish.
- Balance the Sauce: Add more broth if the sauce feels too thick or reduce it longer if you prefer a richer consistency.
Variations to Try
- Lighter Version: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk, and opt for lean ground turkey instead of beef.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the beef and load up on veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Add shredded mozzarella on top and broil for 2–3 minutes for a baked pasta effect.
Why Busy Families Love This Dish
This creamy beef and bow tie pasta is a lifesaver for anyone juggling hectic afternoons and dinner responsibilities. With easily accessible ingredients and minimal cleanup (hello, one pot!), it’s quick without sacrificing flavor. Plus, kids love its rich, cheesy taste, while parents appreciate its versatility.
Whip It Up Tonight!
With its creamy sauce, savory beef, and perfectly cooked bow tie pasta, this recipe is bound to become a household favorite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or indulging in a comforting solo dinner, you can’t go wrong with this dish.
Take it up a notch for your weekly menu rotation—your kitchen (and taste buds) will thank you!
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