Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan

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When comfort food calls, few dishes answer quite like this Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan. Rich, cheesy, and layered with savory flavor, it brings together perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a velvety blend of melted mozzarella and parmesan. The creamy sauce hugs every fold of the pasta, while pops of tomato and herbs add color and brightness.

This is the kind of weeknight dinner that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen. It’s hearty enough to satisfy a hungry family, yet elegant enough to serve to guests. Whether you’re planning a cozy meal or looking for a quick and easy dinner idea, this pasta promises to steal the show with its satisfying texture and comforting flavor.

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

• Fast & Fuss-Free: A full-flavor pasta dish ready in under 40 minutes.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Cheesy, meaty, and creamy—everything most people love in one bowl.
• Balanced Flavors: The slight tang of tomatoes, the richness of beef, and the creamy cheeses all shine without overpowering each other.
• Pantry-Friendly: Most ingredients are probably already in your kitchen.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Stores well for leftovers, making it ideal for weekly meal planning.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and the Importance of Each Tool)

To get the best results with this Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan, having the right tools on hand can make the cooking process smoother and more efficient.

• Large Skillet or Deep Sauté Pan: Essential for browning the ground beef evenly and allowing space to mix in the sauce and pasta without spilling over.
• Large Pot for Boiling Pasta: You’ll need plenty of space to cook the bowtie pasta evenly without clumping.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring ground beef and incorporating cheese without scratching your cookware.
• Colander: For draining pasta quickly and safely.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: Ensures the right balance of cream, cheeses, and seasoning.
• Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board: Needed for prepping ingredients like garlic or fresh herbs (if using).
• Mixing Bowl (Optional): If you like to combine seasonings or cheeses ahead of time for quicker assembly.

Each of these tools supports the different stages of the dish, from boiling to sautéing to combining, ensuring the final pasta turns out rich, creamy, and evenly cooked.

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Preparation Tips

• Salt Your Pasta Water: Don’t skip this step—it’s your first chance to season the pasta itself and enhances overall flavor.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Bowtie pasta (farfalle) holds its texture best when it’s just cooked, especially since it’ll simmer in the sauce briefly.
• Drain, Don’t Rinse: Rinsing removes the starch that helps the sauce stick to the pasta.
• Use Room Temperature Cheese: Mozzarella and parmesan blend more smoothly when not ice-cold.
• Brown the Beef Properly: Let it sear without constant stirring to build flavor and a bit of crispness.
• Reserve Some Pasta Water: Just a splash can help thin out the sauce if it gets too thick after adding cheese.
• Add Cheese Gradually: Stir slowly and melt in batches for the creamiest consistency without clumping.

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

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this cheesy, hearty pasta dish to life:

• 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle) – Cooked al dente
• 1 lb ground beef – Lean (85/15) is ideal for flavor without excess grease
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For browning and flavor
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a mild kick)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes – Drained
• 1½ cups heavy cream – For a rich, velvety sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

Optional Add-ins:

• ½ cup frozen peas or spinach (for added color and nutrition)
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (for depth of flavor)

Each ingredient is chosen to balance creamy richness with savory beefiness and a touch of brightness from the tomatoes. The result is a pasta dish that feels indulgent but also well-rounded.

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Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside. Do not rinse the pasta.

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Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet or deep sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon. Once done, drain excess fat if necessary.

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Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the diced onion to the same skillet with the beef and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and optional red pepper flakes.

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Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Simmer

Stir in the drained diced tomatoes and let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes. This helps meld the tomato flavor into the meat mixture.

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Step 5: Make It Creamy

Reduce the heat to low, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine and let the sauce gently simmer for about 3–5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

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Step 6: Add Cheese

Gradually stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan, a handful at a time, letting each addition melt fully before adding more. Keep stirring gently until the sauce is thick, creamy, and smooth.

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Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the creamy sauce. If needed, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.

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Step 8: Final Touches

Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of parmesan if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

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Notes

• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make sauces gritty. Grate your mozzarella and parmesan fresh for the smoothest, creamiest texture.
• Cream Alternatives: If you want a lighter version, you can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce may be slightly thinner.
• Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to suit your preference, or omit them entirely for a milder dish.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Pasta: Farfalle (bowtie pasta) can become mushy quickly. Make sure to cook just until al dente and avoid letting it boil too long.
• Adding Cheese All at Once: Dumping in all the cheese at once can lead to clumps. Stir in gradually, allowing it to melt smoothly into the sauce.
• Skipping Pasta Water: This starchy water helps emulsify and thin the sauce. Don’t forget to save some before draining the pasta.
• Overcrowding the Pan: If your skillet is too small, the sauce may not mix well with the pasta. Use a wide, deep skillet or transfer everything to a larger pot if needed.
• Not Draining Tomatoes: Failing to drain canned tomatoes will water down the sauce and affect its creaminess.
• Cooking Cream on High Heat: High temperatures can cause the cream to separate or curdle. Keep the heat low once the cream is added.
• Undersalting: Taste and season as you go, especially after adding cream and cheese which can mellow out the seasoning.
• Forgetting to Taste Before Serving: Final seasoning adjustments—like a pinch more salt, pepper, or parmesan—can make all the difference in flavor.

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What to Serve With Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan?

This hearty pasta dish is rich and filling, but pairing it with the right sides can round out the meal beautifully. Whether you want to keep it light or add more indulgence, here are some perfect pairings:

8 Recommendations

1. Garlic Bread
   Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside—perfect for scooping up the extra sauce.
2. Simple Arugula Salad
   Peppery arugula with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness and adds freshness.
3. Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans
   A light vegetable side adds fiber and balances the creamy main dish.
4. Caesar Salad
   A classic with crisp romaine, parmesan, and croutons to echo the flavors in the pasta.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Caramelized edges and slight bitterness contrast well with the cheesy sauce.
6. Toasted Baguette Slices
   Drizzle with olive oil and lightly toast—great for dipping and texture.
7. Caprese Salad
   Tomato, fresh mozzarella, and basil bring a bright, cool element to the table.
8. Sautéed Mushrooms
   Earthy and savory, mushrooms pair nicely with the beef and deepen the umami profile.

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Storage Instructions

Storing leftovers of Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan is simple and keeps the dish tasting delicious the next day.

• Refrigerator: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: While the dish can be frozen, the cream and cheese sauce may slightly separate upon reheating. If you do freeze it, place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Let thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess and prevent it from drying out.

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Estimated Nutrition

Approximate values per serving (based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 580
• Protein: 26g
• Carbohydrates: 47g
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Cholesterol: 105mg
• Sodium: 470mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g

Note: Nutrition may vary slightly depending on exact brands and ingredient substitutions used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?

Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage work well. Just note that each brings a slightly different flavor profile.

2. Can I make this pasta dish ahead of time?

You can cook the pasta and the beef sauce ahead of time, then combine and reheat with a splash of cream or milk when ready to serve.

3. Will this recipe work with other pasta shapes?

Absolutely. Penne, rigatoni, or rotini are great substitutes if you don’t have bowtie pasta.

4. Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese slightly. You can also opt for leaner protein and add more veggies.

5. Can I make it spicy?

Yes! Increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for more heat.

6. What cheeses can I use instead of mozzarella and parmesan?

Fontina, provolone, or even white cheddar can replace mozzarella. Pecorino Romano is a sharper alternative to parmesan.

7. How can I keep the sauce from getting too thick after cooling?

Add a splash of reserved pasta water, milk, or broth while reheating to loosen the sauce without thinning the flavor.

8. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Spinach, mushrooms, peas, or zucchini can be stirred in for added nutrition and color.

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Conclusion

Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan is more than just a quick dinner—it’s a comforting, satisfying meal that delivers every time. Its balance of creamy cheese, savory beef, and tender pasta makes it an instant classic, perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back family gatherings. Whether you’re looking for dinner ideas, easy recipes, or comfort food inspiration, this pasta dish is bound to become a go-to favorite in your home.

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