Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a rich and comforting dish that combines savory beef with cheesy, creamy pasta in a deliciously satisfying way. The tender bowtie pasta and seasoned beef are enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce, making this meal the ultimate comfort food. It’s quick to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy meal with family and friends.

Ingredients

this Recipe

• 1 lb ground beef
• 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 10-12 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-6 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
4. Make the Cheese Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce becomes creamy.
5. Combine the Pasta: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet with the beef and cheese sauce. Toss to combine, making sure the pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce.
6. Serve: Serve the cheesy beef and bowtie pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: For extra flavor and nutrients, stir in vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini along with the beef.
• Use Different Pasta: You can substitute the bowtie pasta with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or fusilli.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a little heat.
• Creamy Version: For an even creamier dish, add more heavy cream or use a mix of heavy cream and cream cheese.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner option. The flavor will be lighter, so you may want to adjust the seasonings.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the cheesy beef and bowtie pasta for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding a little extra cream or broth to bring back the creamy consistency.

Conclusion

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its rich, creamy sauce, savory beef, and tender pasta, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. It’s quick, easy to make, and full of comforting flavors that everyone will love.

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