Go Back
Creamy ground beef bowtie pasta

Creamy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef

This creamy bowtie pasta with ground beef is the perfect weeknight dinner that combines rich, comforting flavors with quick and simple preparation. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or whipping up a meal for yourself, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American-Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 600 kcal

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

This dish offers a hearty, balanced meal with protein from the ground beef, carbs from the pasta, and fats from the creamy cheese sauce. For a lighter version, you can adjust the cheese and cream content or add more vegetables.

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
 
Nutrition Disclaimer:
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!
Keyword bowtie pasta recipe, creamy bowtie pasta with ground beef, pasta recipes, quick dinner recipes