Creamy Bowtie Pasta With Ground Beef

As a home cook, I love recipes that are versatile, easy to make and don’t require hours in the kitchen. This dish checks all those boxes!
The bowtie pasta (also called farfalle) has the perfect texture to hold the creamy sauce, while the ground beef adds hearty protein to every bite, and the creamy, garlicky sauce ties everything together beautifully.
With the cooler months in full swing, this pasta dish is the ultimate comfort food. It’s creamy, satisfying, and a great way to warm up after a chilly day.
Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or just craving something indulgent, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite.
Why You’ll Love It
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when time is limited.
- Kid-Friendly: The creamy sauce and familiar flavors make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Budget-Friendly: Using simple ingredients like ground beef, pasta, and pantry staples makes this dish affordable.
- Versatile: You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have at home or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
- One-Pan Sauce: Less cleanup means more time to relax and enjoy your meal.
Ingredient List
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, for boiling water
For the Ground Beef:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk or heavy cream
- ½ cup (120 ml) beef broth (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Additional Parmesan cheese
More Recipes >>>>> Healthy Dinner Recipes For Two
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Large Pot: For boiling the pasta.
- Large Skillet or Pan: To cook the ground beef and sauce.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the sauce and pasta.
- Colander: To drain the cooked pasta.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
- Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping onions, garlic, and parsley.
- Whisk: To ensure a smooth and creamy sauce.
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions (usually 10-12 minutes) until al dente.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander. Drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the onions are translucent.
- Season with paprika, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine. Remove the cooked beef mixture from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually pour in the milk (or heavy cream) and beef broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, and cream cheese. Whisk until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Return the cooked ground beef mixture to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Stir to combine.
- Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss until the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the pasta with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Serve hot with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. Enjoy!
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Tips and Tricks for Success
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Don’t overcook the pasta! It will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. For the best creamy texture, grate your cheese fresh.
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is perfect for thinning the sauce without sacrificing flavor.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the sauce before adding the pasta and adjust salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
- Add Vegetables: Sneak in some extra nutrition by adding spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the ground beef mixture.
- Make It Spicy: For a kick of heat, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Double the Recipe: This dish reheats beautifully and makes excellent leftovers. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
- Pasta Substitutes: If you don’t have bowtie pasta, substitute with penne, rigatoni, or rotini. Any pasta that holds sauce well will work.
- Ground Beef Alternatives: Use ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, substitute with plant-based ground meat or sautéed mushrooms.
- Milk or Cream: Replace whole milk with half-and-half, heavy cream, or even unsweetened almond milk for a dairy-free option. Coconut milk can also add a unique flavor twist.
- Cheese: If Parmesan isn’t available, use Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or Grana Padano. Swap mozzarella for Monterey Jack or Gouda.
- Vegetables: Add more nutrients by incorporating spinach, peas, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini.
- Spices: Customize the flavor with smoked paprika, cumin, or fresh basil. Skip the red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder taste.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour substitute for the roux.
- Lighter Sauce: Skip the roux and use Greek yogurt or low-fat cream cheese to lighten the sauce.
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Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Serve this creamy pasta with a crisp green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette or a Caesar salad for a classic pairing.
- Garlic Bread: Pair it with warm, buttery garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks for a hearty meal.
- Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts make excellent sides.
- Wine Pairing: A glass of dry white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the creamy flavors perfectly.
- Family Feast: Serve alongside a platter of antipasto or a charcuterie board for a festive touch.

Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storage:
- Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing.
- Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
- Freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating:
- On the stovetop: Add a splash of milk or broth to a skillet and gently reheat the pasta over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- In the microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until warmed through. Add a bit of milk or cream to maintain the creamy texture.
- Avoid overheating to prevent the sauce from separating.
More Recipes >>>>>> Juicy Oven-baked Chicken Thighs
FAQ
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta separately. Combine them just before serving, adding a splash of pasta water to refresh the sauce.
2. How can I make it spicier?
Add extra red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce.
3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use dairy-free milk (like almond or oat milk), vegan cream cheese, and plant-based cheeses.
4. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe doubles beautifully. Just make sure to use a large enough skillet to mix everything evenly.
5. What can I do with leftovers?
Transform leftovers into a casserole! Place the pasta in a baking dish, top with shredded cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly.
6. Can I use pre-cooked pasta?
Yes, just reduce the cooking time slightly to ensure the pasta doesn’t become overcooked when mixed with the sauce.
Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!
Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me @tasiahub. I’d love to see your creations!

Creamy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef
Equipment
- Large pot
- Large Skillet or Pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Colander
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting Board and Knife
- Whisk
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz 340 g bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt for boiling water
For the Ground Beef:
- 1 lb 450 g ground beef
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups 480 ml whole milk or heavy cream
- ½ cup 120 ml beef broth (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 cup 100 g grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup 100 g shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese optional, for extra creaminess
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley chopped (optional)
- Additional Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions (usually 10-12 minutes) until al dente.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander. Drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the onions are translucent.
- Season with paprika, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine. Remove the cooked beef mixture from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually pour in the milk (or heavy cream) and beef broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, and cream cheese. Whisk until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Return the cooked ground beef mixture to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Stir to combine.
- Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss until the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the pasta with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Serve hot with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. Enjoy!
Notes
Nutritional Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 550-600
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Calcium: 15% of the daily recommended intake
- Iron: 20% of the daily recommended intake
The nutritional information on this website is only an estimate and is provided for convenience and as a courtesy only. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed. It should not be used as a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice. Did you make this recipe? Leave a comment and rating!