A Comforting, Cheesy, One-Pan Pasta Dinner Everyone Will Love
Craving a Simple, Creamy Weeknight Dinner That Packs a Punch?
This Delicious Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef and Creamy Cheese Sauce is the answer to your comfort food cravings. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s rich, cheesy, hearty, and family-approved. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, hosting a casual dinner, or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this recipe checks every box for flavor and simplicity.
Introduction
There’s something universally comforting about a bowl of creamy pasta—and when you pair tender bowtie noodles with savory ground beef and a rich, cheesy sauce, you have a recipe for pure dinner-time satisfaction. This Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef and Creamy Cheese Sauce brings together pantry staples in a way that’s bold, delicious, and filling.
Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this dish is both budget-friendly and versatile. The seasoned ground beef blends beautifully with the creamy, cheddar-Parmesan sauce, while the bowtie pasta holds onto every drop of goodness. Finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, this recipe delivers warmth and flavor in every bite.
Tools Needed, Serving Size, and Cooking Time
Essential Tools:
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Colander
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 generous servings
Calories: Approximately 520 kcal per serving
Ingredients
- 12 oz bowtie pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step 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 until al dente. Drain and set aside. Toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking if needed.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 lb of ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy sauce.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and fragrant. This step builds the base flavor for the sauce.
Step 4: Add Seasonings
Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon paprika, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir and let the seasonings cook with the beef mixture for about 1 minute, allowing them to bloom and release their full aroma.
Step 5: Simmer with Beef Broth
Pour in 1 cup of beef broth and stir well, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes to let the broth reduce slightly and deepen in flavor.
Step 6: Make It Creamy and Cheesy
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese, and ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring gently until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. This creates the luscious, velvety sauce that makes the dish so satisfying.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet with the creamy beef sauce. Use tongs or a spatula to toss everything together, ensuring each piece of pasta is coated in that rich, cheesy goodness.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy immediately. Pair with a green salad or crusty bread for a complete, hearty meal.
Tips for Recipe Success
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melt and texture. Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that affect creaminess.
- Cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t get mushy after being mixed with the sauce.
- Don’t skip the onion and garlic—they’re essential for building rich, savory depth.
- Use full-fat cream for the best texture. Substituting with milk may thin the sauce.
- Taste as you go to adjust the salt, pepper, or seasoning based on your preferences.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve alongside garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls for extra indulgence.
- Add a side of steamed green beans, broccoli, or a crisp Caesar salad for balance.
- Sprinkle with extra Parmesan or red pepper flakes for extra flavor and a kick of heat.
Storage Instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
- You can also microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring in between for even heating.
- Not ideal for freezing, as the cream sauce may separate once thawed.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely. Penne, rotini, shells, or rigatoni all work well. Choose a pasta shape that holds onto sauce for the best experience.
2. Is it possible to use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter version. Just note that these leaner meats may require extra seasoning and a drizzle of olive oil for richness.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Definitely. You can prepare the dish up to a day in advance and reheat before serving. For best results, reheat in a skillet with a splash of cream or broth to maintain the creamy texture.
4. What if I don’t have beef broth?
No worries. You can use chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water in a pinch. Beef broth adds the deepest flavor, but the others still work well.
5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Feel free to stir in spinach, peas, mushrooms, or chopped bell peppers during step 3. Just make sure to sauté them until tender before adding the broth.
Conclusion
When you need a comforting meal that’s quick, easy, and loaded with flavor, Delicious Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef and Creamy Cheese Sauce is the perfect answer. It combines pantry staples with rich flavors and satisfying textures, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or cozy dinners at home.
The beef brings hearty protein, the cream sauce delivers that crave-worthy richness, and the bowtie pasta adds the perfect base to hold it all together. Plus, the whole dish comes together in less than 30 minutes—what’s not to love?
Ready to bring warmth and comfort to your table?
Whip up this creamy, cheesy pasta tonight and treat yourself and your loved ones to a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.
