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This creamy, cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef is the ultimate comfort food that brings everyone to the table in record time. The combination of tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich, cheesy sauce creates a dish that satisfies even the pickiest eaters in my household.
I first made this dish when my sister and her family surprised us with a visit, and I needed something quick that would please both adults and children. It was such a hit that it's now requested at nearly every family gathering.
Ingredients
- Bowtie pasta provides the perfect shape for holding the creamy sauce in all its little crevices
- Ground beef creates a hearty, satisfying base that makes this a complete meal
- Onion and garlic build the aromatic foundation that elevates the flavor profile
- Diced tomatoes add brightness and acidity to balance the rich cream and cheese
- Italian seasoning brings warmth and complexity without requiring multiple spice jars
- Heavy cream creates that luxurious mouthfeel that makes this dish irresistible
- Mozzarella cheese adds that stretchy, gooey texture everyone loves
- Parmesan cheese provides a sharp, nutty flavor that deepens the sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
- Boil the bowtie pasta in generously salted water until just al dente, typically 1 minute less than package directions. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water is your secret weapon for a silky sauce if needed later.
- Brown the Beef
- Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until no pink remains and the meat develops a nice brown crust in places, about 6 to 7 minutes. Do not rush this step as proper browning equals flavor.
- Develop the Aromatics
- Add the chopped onion to the browned beef and cook until softened and translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it will turn bitter.
- Create the Sauce Base
- Add the diced tomatoes with their juices, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together and the liquid reduce slightly.
- Enrich with Cream
- Reduce the heat to low to prevent curdling and slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly. Let the mixture gently simmer for about 2 minutes until slightly thickened. The color will transform into a beautiful orange-pink hue.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat every piece with the creamy sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Add the Cheese
- Sprinkle in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese in batches, stirring between additions until completely melted and incorporated. The sauce should become gloriously smooth and clingy to the pasta.
- Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for color and a fresh flavor contrast. Serve immediately while the cheese is still hot and stretchy.
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The heavy cream is truly the secret ingredient here. I once tried to substitute half and half to make it lighter, and while still good, it just didn't have that same luxurious texture that makes everyone go silent at the dinner table except for the occasional happy sigh.
Leftover Magic
This pasta reheats beautifully in the microwave with a splash of milk to revive the creamy sauce. For an even more incredible transformation, spread leftovers in a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F until bubbly for a pasta bake that might be even better than the original dish. I often make extra just to have this baked version the next day.
Make It Your Own
While the recipe is perfect as written, feel free to add vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Ground turkey can substitute for beef if desired, though you may want to add a bit more olive oil since turkey is leaner. For a spicy kick, red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce work wonders. My husband always adds extra red pepper flakes to his portion while I keep mine mild.
Perfect Pairings
This hearty pasta works beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For an impressive yet easy meal, serve with garlic bread or crusty Italian bread to soak up every last bit of that incredible sauce. A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Merlot makes for an excellent adult beverage pairing that complements the tomato and beef flavors.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute bowtie pasta with other types like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli. Choose a shape that holds the sauce well.
- → Can I replace ground beef with another protein?
Absolutely, ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
- → How can I make this dish spicier?
Add some red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper while simmering the tomato mixture for a spicy kick.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce and cook the pasta in advance. Combine them just before serving and reheat gently to preserve the creamy texture.
- → What can I serve alongside this dish?
This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.