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Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan


  • Author: Alioui
  • 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

Scale
  • 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

  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.

  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.

  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.

  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.

  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.

  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.

  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.

  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.

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