If there’s one dish that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table, it has to be Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan. This wonderful recipe serves as an excellent option for a weeknight dinner, providing a hearty meal that’s straightforward to prepare. Combining seasoned ground beef, al dente bowtie pasta, and a luscious cream sauce enriched with mozzarella and Parmesan, this meal feels like a warm blanket on a cold evening. The best part? It takes just 30 minutes from start to finish!
The aromatic blend of garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning elevates the dish, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor. Ideal for families or gatherings, this creamy delight holds the promise of comfort that satisfies all ages. Whether you’re entertaining or looking for an easy solution to your dinner dilemma, this Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta recipe is bound to become a favorite. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it checks every box for those seeking simplicity and satisfaction on the dinner plate.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Hearty & Filling: Packed with protein and carbs, it keeps you full and energized.
- Comfort Food: The cream sauce and cheese create a delightful, creamy texture that everyone loves.
- Kid-Friendly: With cheese and pasta in the mix, it’s a dish that’s sure to please picky eaters.
- Customizable: Feel free to add in vegetables or switch up proteins to suit your taste.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into this delightful recipe, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather your tools. Start by getting out a large pot and skillet. The pot will be for boiling the pasta, while the skillet will be perfect for cooking the beef and sauce. Make sure to have a colander ready for draining the pasta, and a wooden spoon or spatula for stirring the beef.
Chop your onion and garlic ahead of time, as having these aromatics ready to go will streamline your process. If you’re using fresh parsley as a garnish, chop that up too. This dish relies on a few simple ingredients, so have everything at hand for a smooth cooking experience. With your space organized, you’re just moments away from indulging in a creamy sensation!
Ingredients
- 12 oz bowtie pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 0.25 cup chopped parsley (optional)
- 0.5 cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. When it reaches a rolling boil, add the bowtie pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Remember to reserve half a cup of pasta water before you drain the noodles, as this starchy liquid is key in adjusting the cream sauce later on.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. When hot, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Stir until the beef is browned and cooked through. Make sure to drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too heavy. Set it aside momentarily as you’ll be adding more flavorful components soon.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
With the ground beef pushed to one side of the skillet, toss in the finely chopped onion. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic, allowing it to cook for about 30 seconds. This step is crucial as it releases the aromatic flavors, creating a base for your sauce.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Season
Next, stir in the freshly chopped cherry tomatoes, letting them simmer in the skillet for another 2-3 minutes. As their juices release, they’ll enhance the overall flavor of the sauce. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste, allowing all the ingredients to mingle nicely.
Step 5: Create the Cream Sauce
Reduce the heat to low, then slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes so it thickens slightly. This creamy sauce is the heart of the meal, offering a rich base for your pasta and beef.
Step 6: Incorporate the Cheeses
Now it’s time for the cheese! Gradually add in the mozzarella and Parmesan, stirring until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. If the mixture seems too thick, gently mix in a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 7: Combine and Heat
Once the sauce is ready, toss in the drained bowtie pasta, stirring gently to ensure it’s fully coated in the creamy cheese sauce. Heat the pasta in the sauce for an additional 1-2 minutes, letting the flavors absorb.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
To finish, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh touch. Serve warm and enjoy! Consider adding an extra sprinkle of Parmesan or a dash of red pepper flakes for some added kick if desired.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Vegetables: Add spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Spices: Experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano to enhance flavor.
Cooking Notes
- Adjust the richness of the sauce by varying the amount of heavy cream and cheese.
- To make it lighter, you can mix in half-and-half or low-fat milk, but it may alter the creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Serve with a sprinkle of extra cheese and fresh herbs for added flavor.
Tips
- Always reserve pasta water—it’s a game changer for adjusting sauce consistency.
- Taste the sauce during cooking to ensure proper seasoning is achieved.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 650 per serving
- Protein: About 30g per serving
- Sodium: Roughly 800mg per serving
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a day or two before combining it with the cooked pasta.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Swap out the ground beef for lentils or chickpeas combined with your favorite vegetables for a satisfying vegetarian alternative.
Can I freeze Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta?
While it can be frozen, the cream may not thaw well. It’s best to prepare it fresh or store it in the fridge for a few days.
What should I serve with this dish?
A simple salad and some crusty bread or garlic bread pair beautifully with this pasta dish, providing a complete dining experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan is a delightful dish that encapsulates the essence of comfort food. Its rich and creamy flavor profile makes it the perfect choice for any weeknight dinner, providing both convenience and taste. This recipe not only fulfills the desires of those seeking a quick meal but also impresses with its ability to serve a crowd. Remember to experiment with variations to keep things exciting, whether it’s adding vegetables, trying different proteins, or adjusting the seasonings. We hope you give this dish a try and share it with loved ones. Don’t forget to comment below on your cooking experience, any tweaks you made, or how it turned out for you. Bon appétit!
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Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A comforting and quick pasta dish that combines ground beef with a creamy sauce and cheese.
Ingredients
- 12 oz bowtie pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 0.25 cup chopped parsley (optional)
- 0.5 cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
-
Boil the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. When it reaches a rolling boil, add the bowtie pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Remember to reserve half a cup of pasta water before you drain the noodles, as this starchy liquid is key in adjusting the cream sauce later on.
-
Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. When hot, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Stir until the beef is browned and cooked through. Make sure to drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too heavy. Set it aside momentarily as you’ll be adding more flavorful components soon.
-
Sauté the Aromatics
With the ground beef pushed to one side of the skillet, toss in the finely chopped onion. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic, allowing it to cook for about 30 seconds. This step is crucial as it releases the aromatic flavors, creating a base for your sauce.
-
Add Tomatoes and Season
Next, stir in the freshly chopped cherry tomatoes, letting them simmer in the skillet for another 2-3 minutes. As their juices release, they’ll enhance the overall flavor of the sauce. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste, allowing all the ingredients to mingle nicely.
-
Create the Cream Sauce
Reduce the heat to low, then slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes so it thickens slightly. This creamy sauce is the heart of the meal, offering a rich base for your pasta and beef.
-
Incorporate the Cheeses
Now it’s time for the cheese! Gradually add in the mozzarella and Parmesan, stirring until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. If the mixture seems too thick, gently mix in a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
-
Combine and Heat
Once the sauce is ready, toss in the drained bowtie pasta, stirring gently to ensure it’s fully coated in the creamy cheese sauce. Heat the pasta in the sauce for an additional 1-2 minutes, letting the flavors absorb.
-
Garnish and Serve
To finish, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh touch. Serve warm and enjoy! Consider adding an extra sprinkle of Parmesan or a dash of red pepper flakes for some added kick if desired.
Notes
To make it lighter, you can mix in half-and-half or low-fat milk, but it may alter the creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 30 g