Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef

Description: This delicious Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef is a comforting family-friendly meal made with tender bowtie pasta, seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, garlic, and a rich creamy cheese sauce. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4–6

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) bowtie pasta

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 cup beef broth

• ½ cup heavy cream

• ½ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ¾ teaspoon salt, or to taste

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease.

3. Add Onion and Garlic: Stir in chopped onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

4. Season the Beef: Add Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.

5. Make the Sauce: Add diced tomatoes and beef broth. Stir everything together and simmer for 5–7 minutes.

6. Add Cream: Reduce the heat and pour in heavy cream. Stir gently until the sauce becomes creamy.

7. Add Cheese: Mix in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

8. Combine Pasta: Add cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet. Toss gently until every piece is coated with the beef sauce.

9. Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the pasta.

10. Serve: Serve warm with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Healthy Benefits

• Ground Beef: Provides protein, iron, and vitamin B12.

• Tomatoes: Contain antioxidants and vitamin C.

• Garlic: Adds flavor and beneficial plant compounds.

• Onions: Provide fiber and antioxidants.

Pro Tips

• Cook pasta until just al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.

• Drain excess grease from the beef for a less oily sauce.

• Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce becomes too thick.

• Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with garlic bread, Caesar salad, roasted broccoli, or steamed vegetables.

Variations

• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes.

• Extra Cheesy: Add more mozzarella.

• Vegetable Loaded: Add mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.

• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

• Protein Alternative: Substitute ground turkey or chicken.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.

Final Thought

This Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef is creamy, cheesy, hearty, and full of delicious flavor. It’s an easy dinner recipe the whole family will love.