Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, cheesy, and full of rich flavor. Featuring tender ground beef, perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, and a creamy cheese sauce, this one-pot wonder is an easy and satisfying meal the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is quick, filling, and made with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. It’s a fantastic weeknight dinner option that comes together in about 30 minutes. The savory beef, comforting pasta, and gooey cheese create a dish that’s both cozy and delicious. Plus, it’s kid-approved, reheats well, and is easily customizable.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• Ground beef
• Onion, finely chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Canned diced tomatoes
• Tomato paste
• Beef broth
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Cheddar cheese, shredded
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Olive oil or butter
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
6. Reduce heat to low and stir in cooked pasta. Mix well to coat the pasta in the sauce.
7. Add cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir until melted and creamy.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4–6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
• Creamy twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
• Vegetable boost: Add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to sneak in some greens.
• Cheese swap: Use Monterey Jack, provolone, or Parmesan for a different flavor.
• One-pot method: Cook pasta directly in the sauce with extra broth for fewer dishes.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.
You can freeze the dish for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as usual.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, penne, rotini, shells, or elbows all work well in place of bowtie pasta.

How can I make this dish lighter?

Use lean ground beef or ground turkey, and reduce the amount of cheese or use low-fat cheese.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it in advance and reheat before serving. It stores and reheats very well.

What kind of cheese melts best in this recipe?

Cheddar and mozzarella melt well and give a creamy texture, but feel free to use your favorites.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients (like broth and tomato paste) are certified gluten-free.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, chop and cook down fresh tomatoes, but the texture may be slightly different.

Is it okay to add cream cheese for extra creaminess?

Absolutely! A few tablespoons of cream cheese can make the sauce extra luscious.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, omit the beef and add cooked lentils or extra vegetables for a meat-free version.

What goes well with this pasta?

A simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables make great sides.

Can I add herbs for more flavor?

Yes, fresh basil, oregano, or thyme can enhance the taste and give it a fresh touch.

Conclusion

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a cozy, satisfying recipe that hits all the right notes—flavorful, creamy, and quick to make. With simple ingredients and tons of room for customization, it’s a go-to meal for busy nights or whenever you need a comforting bowl of pasta. Once you try it, it’ll likely earn a spot in your regular dinner rotation.

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