Description
This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a comforting and hearty meal featuring tender bowtie pasta tossed in a rich, creamy sauce with ground beef, seasoned perfectly with Italian herbs and a blend of cheeses. Ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner, this dish combines simplicity with delicious flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Meat
- 12 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Liquids and Dairy
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- 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. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks to ensure even cooking.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent.
- Add Seasonings and Tomato Paste: Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to develop its flavor.
- Simmer with Broth: Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 3–4 minutes to reduce slightly and meld the flavors.
- Create Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and sour cream until the sauce is smooth and creamy, combining well with the meat mixture.
- Toss Pasta and Cheese: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to thoroughly coat the noodles with the creamy sauce. Stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, allowing them to melt and blend evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish for a fresh finish if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, cheesy beef pasta.
Notes
- For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey or chicken in place of ground beef.
- Enhance the dish with vegetables such as spinach or peas for added nutrition and color.
- Adjust the spice level to your liking by increasing or omitting the crushed red pepper flakes.
