If you’re searching for a hearty, flavorful meal that can be made in under 30 minutes, Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is the perfect choice! This creamy, cheesy pasta dish features tender ground beef and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, creating a family-friendly dinner everyone will love. Whether you’re short on time or craving comfort food, this easy recipe checks all the boxes.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. If necessary, drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the beef broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce cook for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Stir in the shredded cheese until it melts into a creamy, rich sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot! This comforting meal is sure to become a family favorite.
Tips for Perfecting Your Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta:
- Meat Variations: You can easily substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix up the cheese – try Parmesan, Gruyère, or a combination of different cheeses for added flavor.
- Add Veggies: Boost the nutritional value by adding spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor and texture.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat it on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring back its creamy texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this one-pan meal makes dinner a breeze.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a comforting, cheesy pasta dish that even picky eaters will enjoy.
- Versatile: With simple ingredients and optional add-ins, you can make this recipe your own.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 600
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fat: 30g
Storage and Reheating Tips:
- Refrigeration: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to 2-3 months. Simply portion it into freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat, add a splash of broth or cream to the skillet or microwave to loosen the sauce.
FAQs:
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the pasta and sauce, then store the mixture in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to serve, reheat and add a bit more cream or broth to restore its creamy texture.
2. Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat will work well in place of ground beef.
3. How can I make this dish lighter?
To make it lighter, use lean ground beef or turkey, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, and add extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini.
4. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! Freezing works well for this dish. Simply portion it into containers and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat on the stove, adding a little broth or cream if necessary.
Conclusion:
Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a quick, comforting, and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With its rich, creamy sauce and hearty beef, this dish will become a go-to in your dinner rotation. Give it a try and share it with your loved ones – they’ll be asking for seconds!
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