Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan

When comfort food calls, pasta often answers. There’s something about a steaming plate of noodles coated in a rich, cheesy sauce that satisfies like nothing else. This Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan combines tender farfalle pasta, juicy ground beef, and a luxuriously creamy sauce loaded with garlic, Parmesan, and mozzarella.

The bowtie shape isn’t just charming—it’s functional. The grooves and folds catch the sauce perfectly, ensuring every bite is a balance of pasta, beef, and cheesy goodness. The result is a family-friendly, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight yet indulgent enough for a special dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in about 30 minutes – A quick dinner solution for busy nights.
• Cheesy and creamy – Parmesan brings a sharp, nutty note, while mozzarella adds silky richness.
• Balanced flavor – Garlic, cream, and beef blend into a sauce that’s both hearty and smooth.
• Customizable – Easy to adapt with vegetables, different meats, or alternate pasta shapes.
• Kid-approved – The mild cream sauce appeals to a wide range of tastes.

Ingredients Breakdown

Serves: 4

Pasta

• 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle) – Holds creamy sauces well thanks to its ridged surface and pinched center.

Beef

• 1 lb lean ground beef – A protein-rich base for the dish.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Enhances flavor while cooking.

Garlic Butter Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing beef and helping it brown.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Creates the rich garlic butter foundation.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Infuses a subtle background garlic note.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced – Delivers bold, fresh garlic flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds gentle heat if desired.

Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream – Creates a velvety, thick sauce.
• 1/2 cup beef broth – Deepens the savory profile.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – For sharp, salty richness.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Adds smooth meltiness.

Garnish

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley – For color and a touch of freshness.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Colander for draining pasta
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 10–12 minutes.
3. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
4. Drain pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
8. Cook until browned and no pink remains, about 5–6 minutes.
9. Remove beef from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Base

10. Lower heat to medium.
11. Add butter to the skillet.
12. Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using).
13. Cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

14. Pour in heavy cream and beef broth, stirring to combine.
15. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet—they add flavor.
16. Simmer for 3–4 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Beef

17. Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella until melted and smooth.
18. Return cooked beef to the skillet and mix until coated with sauce.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

19. Add cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet.
20. Toss until pasta is fully coated.
21. If needed, loosen the sauce with a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

22. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
23. Serve hot with extra Parmesan on the side.

Tips for Success

• Salt the pasta water generously – It’s your first chance to season the dish.
• Don’t overcook garlic – Burnt garlic turns bitter quickly.
• Grate Parmesan fresh – Pre-grated cheese can be waxy and less flavorful.
• Reserve pasta water – Its starch can help adjust sauce consistency.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

Taste
The creamy sauce offers a balanced mix of savory beef, nutty Parmesan, mild mozzarella, and aromatic garlic. Red pepper flakes provide optional warmth without overpowering.

Pair with

• Crisp green salad with a vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or warm crusty baguette
• Steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted asparagus

Wine pairing
A light red such as Pinot Noir or a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc works well.

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving)

Estimates for 4 servings

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~670 kcal
Protein	35 g
Carbohydrates	52 g
Fat	35 g
Fiber	3 g

Variations to Try

1. Vegetable Boost – Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers when sautéing garlic.
2. Spicy Kick – Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
3. Herb Twist – Mix in fresh basil or oregano for an Italian-inspired flavor.
4. Different Pasta – Penne, rigatoni, or cavatappi also work beautifully.

Make-Ahead & Storage

• Prep ahead – Mince garlic and chop parsley a day in advance.
• Storage – Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing – Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating – Warm gently over low heat with a splash of cream or milk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be slightly thinner.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth is gluten-free.

Why is my sauce grainy?
Cheese should be added over low heat to prevent clumping.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes—ground chicken or turkey works well for a lighter version.

Cooking Timeline (Quick Glance)

Step	Time
Boil pasta	10–12 min
Brown beef	5–6 min
Garlic butter base	1 min
Simmer cream sauce	3–4 min
Add cheese & beef	2 min
Toss pasta & serve	2 min
Total	~30 min

Conclusion

Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan is the definition of comfort in a bowl. The combination of tender pasta, hearty beef, rich cream, and melted cheese creates a satisfying dish that comes together quickly yet feels special. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or serving guests, it’s a versatile recipe that can adapt to your tastes and pantry.

With its balance of savory, creamy, and cheesy flavors, this pasta will likely earn a regular spot in your recipe rotation. Serve it with a crisp salad, a side of garlic bread, and good company, and you’ve got a meal worth savoring to the very last bite.

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