Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef

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There’s something so comforting about cheesy pasta, and when it’s combined with tender ground beef and perfectly cooked bowtie noodles, it’s pure weeknight magic. This Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef is one of those meals I keep coming back to again and again. It’s hearty, it’s creamy, it’s cheesy, and best of all, it’s simple to make.

I first made this dish on a busy Tuesday when I had leftover ground beef and some bowtie pasta in the pantry. I wanted something filling but not fussy. The smell of onions sizzling in the pan and the bubbling cheese sauce brought the whole kitchen to life. One bite, and I knew this would become a staple in our meal rotation.

What I love about this recipe is how effortlessly it pulls together comfort and flavor. It’s great for feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week. It tastes even better the next day, which makes it an excellent option for leftovers.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef

This recipe is a dream for anyone looking for a cozy, satisfying dinner. The bowtie pasta holds onto the sauce beautifully, making every bite flavorful. The seasoned ground beef adds heartiness, and the cheese sauce is creamy, savory, and just indulgent enough. It’s an easy one-pan dinner that comes together fast and pleases both kids and adults alike. If you’re looking for a recipe that brings everyone to the table, this is it.

Ingredients

Bowtie Pasta: This pasta shape is perfect for catching all the delicious cheese sauce in its nooks and folds. It also has a nice texture that pairs beautifully with ground beef.

Ground Beef: The savory base of the dish, adding richness and protein. A leaner cut works best to keep the dish from getting greasy.

Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the meat, enhancing the overall flavor.

Garlic: Just a couple of cloves bring a fragrant warmth to the recipe.

Tomato Paste: Gives a mild acidity that balances the creaminess and enhances the meatiness.

Heavy Cream: The foundation for a velvety, luscious cheese sauce.

Cheddar Cheese: Brings bold, sharp flavor and creamy meltiness. Use freshly grated for best results.

Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully and stretches, giving that gooey texture we all crave.

Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings to taste, they bring all the flavors together.

Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and boosting flavor without overpowering.

How to Make Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet or deep pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until fully browned. Drain excess fat if needed. Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook out for 2 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

Reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella, stirring until completely melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the drained bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let everything heat through for a couple more minutes before serving.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

You can make this Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef your own with a few swaps. For a leaner version, ground turkey or chicken works great. Want to sneak in some veggies? Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms make delicious add-ins that cook down beautifully with the beef. If you’re out of heavy cream, try using half-and-half or even evaporated milk for a lighter touch. Prefer a bit of heat? Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or swap cheddar for pepper jack.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This cheesy pasta dish is rich and hearty, so I like to serve it with something crisp and light. A simple green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness well. Garlic bread or crusty baguette is always a hit for soaking up any leftover sauce. For drinks, go with sparkling water or a chilled glass of pinot noir or even sweet tea if you’re leaning Southern.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftover Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and keep it creamy. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or reheat gently on the stovetop. This dish also freezes fairly well—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How do I keep Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef from drying out?

To keep the dish creamy, add a splash of milk or cream when reheating. It helps restore the sauce’s texture and prevents the pasta from soaking up all the moisture.

Can I make Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef ahead of time?

Yes, it’s a great make-ahead meal. Store it in the fridge, then reheat with a little added cream. It actually tastes even better after sitting overnight.

What cheese is best for Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef?

A mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella gives the perfect balance of flavor and meltiness. Feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or Gruyère.

Can I use a different pasta shape for Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef?

Absolutely! Penne, rotini, or shells all work well. Just choose a shape that holds sauce nicely.

Is Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef kid-friendly?

Very much so! The creamy texture and mild flavors make it a hit with kids, and it’s easy to sneak in extra veggies too.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you’re loving this pasta dish, you’ll definitely want to try Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta for a spicy twist, or for a veggie-forward side, check out Roasted Zucchini and Squash. Looking for another hearty favorite? The French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a must-make.

Save and Share for Later

If you loved this Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef, don’t forget to save it to your favorite Pinterest board so you can come back to it anytime! You can also share it with friends and family who love a comforting dinner recipe—text it, email it, or tag someone in the comments. Good food is always better when shared!

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