Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan

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This Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan is one of those comfort meals that tastes like a warm hug. It combines hearty ground beef, tender bowtie pasta, and a luxuriously creamy sauce loaded with cheesy goodness. Whether you need a cozy weeknight dinner or something simple to satisfy a family gathering, this dish delivers every time.

What makes this pasta so irresistible is how seamlessly the ingredients come together. The richness of the beef and the velvety creaminess of the sauce are perfectly balanced by the chewy pasta and melted cheeses. It’s that magic combination of pantry staples that transforms into something extraordinary, all in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan

This dish is as dependable as it is delicious. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and flexible enough to adjust based on what you have on hand. The double cheese blend of gooey mozzarella and sharp parmesan adds depth and indulgence, while the bowtie pasta provides a playful texture kids and adults both adore.

It also reheats well, making it a great meal prep option or next-day lunch. And the best part? You don’t need a long list of fancy ingredients—just comfort food classics that work beautifully together.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for This Recipe?

While bowtie pasta (farfalle) is fantastic for holding onto the creamy sauce in all its little folds and ridges, you can easily swap it with penne, rotini, or even elbow macaroni. Just keep in mind that different pasta shapes might cook a bit faster or slower, so adjust your timing accordingly.

Ingredients for the Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan

The beauty of this recipe is that you likely have most of the ingredients on hand. Each one plays a key role in creating the bold, cheesy, creamy flavor that makes this dish unforgettable.

• Ground beef
• Bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• Yellow onion
• Garlic cloves
• Italian seasoning
• Crushed tomatoes
• Heavy cream
• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper
• Olive oil

How To Make the Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add chopped yellow onion to the skillet with the beef and cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Let everything simmer together for 5–7 minutes to meld the flavors. Then, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let it cook gently for another 3–4 minutes until the sauce becomes creamy and thickened.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Combine and Melt

Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce. Stir well to coat every piece. Then mix in the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan, stirring until everything is beautifully melted and creamy.

Step 6: Serve

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve warm, with a sprinkle of extra parmesan if you like a finishing touch of cheese.

How to Serve and Store This Pasta

This pasta is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it’s even better with a crisp side salad or garlic bread. Serve it piping hot in shallow bowls so every bite captures that luscious sauce clinging to the pasta.

Leftovers keep very well. Store any extra pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to restore the creaminess. This recipe feeds about 4 to 6 people generously.

What to Serve With Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta?

Garlic Bread

Golden and buttery, garlic bread is the perfect tool for scooping up extra sauce.

Caesar Salad

The cool crunch and tang of Caesar salad contrast beautifully with the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Green Beans

Lightly caramelized green beans add a crisp, healthy side that balances the creamy textures.

Caprese Skewers

Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato on a skewer offer a bright, juicy complement to the dish.

Sauteed Spinach

A warm pan of garlic-sautéed spinach is a fast and flavorful way to round out your meal.

Crusty Baguette

Tear off a chunk of rustic bread to enjoy every drop of creamy cheese sauce.

Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their slight bitterness plays well with the creaminess of the pasta.

Lemon Herb Asparagus

A zesty vegetable side brings freshness and balance to your plate.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If this Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta has you craving more indulgent pasta nights, check out these other favorites from the Janet Dishes kitchen:

• Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta for a vegetarian twist that still feels hearty.
• One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni for a no-fuss weeknight dream.
• Creamy Lemon Butter Salmon if you’re in the mood for seafood with a citrus punch.
• Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta for those who like a little kick in their cream.
• Tuscan Chicken Pasta when you want sun-dried tomato flavor all over your plate.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use penne or stick with bowties? Maybe added mushrooms or a dash of red pepper flakes?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated comfort food classics and fresh dinner ideas on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find your next family favorite!

Conclusion

This Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan is the kind of easy, satisfying meal that never disappoints. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just need something comforting after a long day, it’s sure to bring everyone to the table with smiles and second helpings.

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