There’s just something magical about comfort food, isn’t there? It has this incredible ability to bring family together, filling hearts and bellies alike. I remember Sunday dinners at my grandmother’s house, where the aroma of her creamy dishes would wrap around us like a warm hug. One dish that always stood out was her creamy beef and bowtie pasta. It’s simple yet satisfying, making it perfect for those cozy evenings when you want to feel a little extra loved. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also allows for little ones to help in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of patience, you can whip up a meal that’s bound to spark joy at your table. Trust me, when you serve this dish, you’ll see smiles all around, and that’s what it’s all about!

Ingredients List

For this creamy beef and bowtie pasta, you’ll want to gather the following ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating that comforting flavor we all love:

• 8 ounces bowtie pasta (also known as farfalle, this fun shape holds sauce beautifully)
• 1 pound ground beef (you can use lean beef for a healthier option)
• 1 small onion, chopped (this adds a lovely sweetness)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (for that aromatic kick)
• 1 cup beef broth (homemade or store-bought, whichever you prefer)
• 1 cup heavy cream (this is where the creaminess comes from)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best for flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste (don’t shy away from seasoning!)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing the beef and veggies)

With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to making a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table. Happy cooking!

How to Prepare Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta

Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into making this delightful creamy beef and bowtie pasta! I promise it’s easier than it sounds, and I’ll walk you through each step. Just take your time, and don’t rush.

1. First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, add in your 8 ounces of bowtie pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until it’s al dente—meaning it should have a slight bite to it. When it’s done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. Be careful; that steam can be hot!
2. While your pasta is cooking, let’s work on the beef. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant. You might even want to give it a little stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Next, add in the 1 pound of ground beef. Break it apart with your spatula as it cooks, letting it brown nicely for about 5-7 minutes. You want it to be fully cooked, so no pink remains. Here’s a tip: make sure to drain any excess fat if you’re using higher-fat beef to keep the dish from becoming too greasy.
4. Once your beef is browned, pour in 1 cup of beef broth and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This will help to build flavor and create a nice broth to work with.
5. Now, it’s time for the creaminess! Slowly stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and mix until well combined. You’ll see it turn into a luscious sauce in no time! Then, add in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and stir continuously until it melts and becomes beautifully creamy. This is my favorite part—just wait until you smell it!
6. Season your mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy; this is where you can adjust the flavor to your liking.
7. Finally, add the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet. Toss everything together gently, ensuring each piece of pasta is coated in that lovely creamy sauce. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
8. Serve your creamy beef and bowtie pasta warm, and feel free to sprinkle some extra cheese on top for that finishing touch. Enjoy!

Remember, cooking is all about having fun and making it your own. Take your time, and soon you’ll be serving up this comforting dish that everyone will adore!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy preparation: This recipe comes together in just about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Comforting and satisfying: Every bite delivers that warm, hearty feeling we crave, making it a favorite for family gatherings.
• Deliciously creamy flavor: The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan creates a rich sauce that’s simply irresistible.
• Great for family meals: It’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both young and old, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.
• Can be customized with veggies: Add in your favorite vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for an extra nutritional boost!

Tips for Success

To ensure your creamy beef and bowtie pasta turns out perfectly, here are a few pro tips from my kitchen to yours:

• Cook pasta al dente: This means cooking it just until tender but still firm. It’ll hold up better when mixed with the sauce!
• Brown the beef evenly: Make sure to break it apart and stir it well while cooking. This helps achieve that wonderful flavor and prevents any pieces from being undercooked.
• Add cheese slowly: When stirring in the Parmesan, do it gradually. This helps create that smooth, creamy texture we love.
• Don’t skip the seasoning: Taste as you go! A little salt and pepper can elevate the dish immensely.
• Let it rest: If you can, let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to a delicious meal that everyone will rave about!

Variations

If you’re looking to switch things up with your creamy beef and bowtie pasta, there are plenty of delicious options! For a lighter twist, try using ground turkey instead of beef—it’s still hearty but a bit healthier. You can also experiment with different pasta shapes; penne or fusilli work wonderfully and hold onto that creamy sauce just as well. Feeling adventurous? Toss in some vibrant vegetables like fresh spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color. You could even sprinkle in some mushrooms for an earthy flavor. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and make this dish your own!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a general idea of the nutritional content for this creamy beef and bowtie pasta, based on a serving size of 1 cup. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients you use:

• Calories: 550
• Fat: 30g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fiber: 2g

This comforting dish is rich and satisfying, making it perfect for a special family meal. Enjoy every creamy bite!

FAQ Section

Here are some common questions you might have about making creamy beef and bowtie pasta. I’m here to help!

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is delightful, you can easily substitute it with other shapes like penne, fusilli, or even shells. Each will bring its own charm to the dish and still hold that creamy sauce beautifully.

How can I make this dish healthier?
If you’re looking to lighten it up a bit, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also replace heavy cream with low-fat milk or half-and-half for fewer calories. Adding extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers not only boosts nutrition but also adds vibrant color and flavor!

Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes! This dish can be made ahead of time. Just prepare it up until the point of adding the pasta, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of beef broth or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

I hope these answers help you on your cooking journey! Enjoy your creamy beef and bowtie pasta!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To store any leftovers of your creamy beef and bowtie pasta, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to seal it well to prevent any odors from your fridge from sneaking in!

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat them gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of beef broth or a little milk to help maintain that creamy texture and prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until it’s warmed through, and you’re ready to dig in again! Enjoy those comforting bites once more!

Serving Suggestions

To complement your creamy beef and bowtie pasta, I highly recommend serving it with a crisp, fresh salad. A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, garlic bread is always a hit! The warm, buttery bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. You could even consider a side of steamed vegetables for a colorful and nutritious touch. Whichever you choose, these sides will round out your meal beautifully!

Delicious Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta for Cozy Nights

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Comfort Food

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Description

A comforting dish of creamy beef and bowtie pasta that’s easy to prepare.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 ounces bowtie pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

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Instructions

1. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until onions are soft.
4. Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
5. Pour in the beef broth and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Add heavy cream and stir until combined.
7. Mix in grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and creamy.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat.
10. Serve warm, garnished with extra cheese if desired.

Notes

• For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for beef.
• Use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream for fewer calories.
• Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: creamy beef and bowtie pasta, easy pasta recipe, comfort food