Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan

Save this recipe on:

When comfort food calls, this Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan answers with bold, cheesy flavor and irresistible creaminess. The richness of seasoned ground beef, paired with the tender bite of bowtie pasta, gets wrapped in a luscious cream sauce that’s loaded with mozzarella and parmesan. Every bite delivers a satisfying mix of savory meat, gooey cheese, and a hint of herby freshness from diced tomatoes and parsley.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just looking for an easy dinner idea that hits all the right notes, this dish is a standout. It’s hearty without being too heavy, flavorful without requiring a pantry full of ingredients, and indulgent in all the right ways. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again — a go-to weeknight dinner that also holds its own at casual gatherings or potlucks.

---

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

• Quick & easy dinner – Done in under 30 minutes with minimal fuss.
• One-pot magic – Fewer dishes, more flavor.
• Family favorite – Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Cheesy goodness – A creamy combo of mozzarella and parmesan creates a velvety sauce.
• Perfect for leftovers – Tastes even better the next day.
• Customizable – Easily add in mushrooms, spinach, or swap beef for turkey.
• Comfort food at its best – Rich, satisfying, and packed with flavor.
• Budget-friendly – Simple ingredients that stretch to feed a crowd.

---

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment (and Why They Matter)

Before diving into this cheesy, savory goodness, gathering the right tools will make the cooking process smooth and stress-free. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

• Large Deep Skillet or Dutch Oven: This is the heart of the recipe. You’ll need a large surface area to brown the beef evenly and enough depth to hold the pasta and sauce. A non-stick or enameled surface helps prevent scorching the cheese.
• Pasta Pot with Strainer: Boiling your bowtie pasta separately ensures perfect texture. A built-in strainer lid or a colander will save time during draining.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring the sauce and folding in the cheese without damaging your cookware.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision matters — too much or too little cream or cheese can throw off the texture.
• Box Grater (if shredding cheese fresh): Freshly shredded mozzarella and parmesan melt smoother and taste better than pre-packaged.
• Cutting Board & Knife: For dicing optional veggies (like onions or tomatoes) or prepping garnishes like parsley.

Investing in these basic tools sets you up not only for this dish but for a range of comforting pasta recipes in your weeknight rotation.

---

Preparation Tips

To get the best out of this creamy bowtie pasta, a little prep can go a long way. These tips will make the process even easier and more delicious:

• Salt your pasta water well – It’s your first chance to season the dish, and it makes a big difference in flavor.
• Brown the beef thoroughly – Let it sit undisturbed in the pan for a minute or two before stirring to get that deep, caramelized flavor.
• Drain excess grease – Especially if using higher-fat ground beef. This keeps your sauce rich but not greasy.
• Cook pasta al dente – The pasta will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot sauce, so avoid overcooking it in the pot.
• Warm the cream before adding – This helps prevent curdling when mixing it with hot meat and cheese.
• Use freshly shredded cheese – It melts smoother and more evenly than pre-packaged versions, which often contain anti-caking agents.
• Reserve a cup of pasta water – If your sauce feels too thick at the end, adding some starchy water can loosen it without diluting flavor.

---

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

This recipe keeps things simple while delivering big on flavor. Here’s everything you’ll need to bring it to life:

• 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle) – Cooked al dente for perfect texture
• 1 lb ground beef – Lean or regular, depending on your preference
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing and flavor
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Adds depth and aroma
• 1/2 cup diced onion – Optional, but boosts savory notes
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with Italian herbs, drained – Brings brightness and balance
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Complements the creamy and cheesy base
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – For a subtle heat
• 1 cup heavy cream – Forms the creamy base of the sauce
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Melty and creamy, the star of the show
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese – For that nutty, salty finish
• Salt & black pepper to taste – Season every layer to bring out the flavors
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish) – Adds a touch of color and freshness

Optional Add-ins:

• 1/2 cup chopped spinach (stir in at the end for a pop of green)
• 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms for extra umami
• A splash of chicken broth if you prefer a lighter sauce

---

Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.

---

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

---

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Add the minced garlic and diced onion (if using) to the beef. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and the onions are softened.

---

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Seasoning

Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1–2 minutes to let the flavors blend.

---

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Simmer

Lower the heat to medium-low. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to combine. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly thickened.

---

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Turn off the heat and immediately stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan. Mix until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

---

Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together gently until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

---

Step 8: Taste and Finish

Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for garnish, if desired. Serve immediately while hot and cheesy.

---

Notes

• Customize it your way: This recipe is flexible. Add spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or even swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat.
• Use quality cheese: Freshly grated mozzarella and parmesan melt smoother and give you a more luxurious texture than pre-shredded blends.
• Balance the sauce: If the sauce thickens too much while simmering or sitting, loosen it with a bit of the reserved pasta water or a splash of milk.
• Make it spicy (or not): Adjust the red pepper flakes to your taste. You can also add a dash of hot sauce for extra kick.
• Double the batch: This recipe scales beautifully. Make extra for lunch leftovers or a second meal later in the week.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the pasta: Bowtie pasta can quickly go from perfect to mushy. Stick to al dente—especially since it’ll continue cooking slightly in the sauce.
• Skipping the pasta water: It’s loaded with starch and perfect for adjusting sauce consistency without diluting flavor. Don’t toss it!
• Using cold cream straight from the fridge: Cold dairy can cause your sauce to separate or curdle. Let the cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes before adding.
• Adding cheese too early or on high heat: Turn off the heat before adding cheese to avoid clumps or a gritty texture.
• Under-seasoning: Each layer of this dish should be seasoned — meat, sauce, pasta. Taste as you go.
• Crowding the pan: Give your beef room to brown. If you overcrowd it, the meat will steam instead of sear, losing flavor.
• Using low-fat cream or milk: For best results, use heavy cream. Lighter alternatives may cause the sauce to separate or lack richness.
• Forgetting to garnish: A sprinkle of parsley or extra parmesan can brighten up the whole dish visually and flavor-wise.

---

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

This rich and satisfying pasta dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that either balance its richness or complement its flavors. Whether you’re setting the table for a full family dinner or serving a casual weeknight meal, these additions will round things out perfectly.

8 Recommendations

1. Garlic Bread or Cheesy Breadsticks
   Classic and comforting, these are perfect for soaking up any extra creamy sauce.
2. Simple Green Salad with Vinaigrette
   A crisp, acidic salad helps cut through the richness of the cheese and cream.
3. Steamed or Roasted Broccoli
   Adds a nutritious crunch and mild bitterness that contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta.
4. Sautéed Green Beans with Lemon Zest
   Fresh and vibrant, they bring brightness to the plate and keep the meal light.
5. Caprese Salad
   Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil echo the Italian flavors in the dish.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Their nutty caramelized flavor pairs surprisingly well with cheesy pasta.
7. Creamy Tomato Soup or Italian Wedding Soup
   A comforting warm-up or light starter that aligns with the overall theme of the meal.
8. Balsamic Glazed Roasted Carrots
   Sweet and tangy, they offer a beautiful flavor contrast and pop of color.

---

Storage Instructions

Storing Leftovers:
Let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating Tips:

• Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
• For microwave reheating, cover loosely and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to maintain creamy texture.

Freezing (Optional):
This dish can be frozen, though the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly upon thawing. If you do freeze it:

• Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove with a bit of added liquid to revive the sauce.

---

Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: ~580 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 32g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Cholesterol: 95mg
• Serving Size: About 1 ½ cups
• Diet: Contains dairy and gluten

---

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of bowtie?

Absolutely! Penne, rotini, shells, or even rigatoni all work well. Just choose a shape that holds onto the sauce.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes. You can cook the pasta and meat mixture ahead of time, then combine and reheat before serving. Add a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce when reheating.

3. Is it possible to make this lighter?

To lighten it up, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and lean ground turkey in place of beef. Keep in mind, the sauce may be less rich.

4. Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the bowtie pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Be sure to follow the cooking instructions closely, as gluten-free pasta can get mushy.

5. Can I freeze this pasta?

Yes, although the cream sauce may change slightly in texture. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months and reheat with a bit of added liquid.

6. What cheese substitutes can I use?

Fontina, gouda, or provolone can replace mozzarella, and Pecorino Romano can be used in place of parmesan for a sharper flavor.

7. What can I do if my sauce is too thick?

Add some of the reserved pasta water, milk, or cream to thin it out. Stir it in gradually over low heat until it reaches your desired consistency.

8. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or even peas make great additions and help balance the richness of the sauce.

---

Conclusion

Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan is a perfect blend of hearty and indulgent. It’s a family-friendly recipe that turns simple pantry staples into a cozy, cheesy masterpiece. Whether you’re feeding a weeknight crowd or prepping leftovers for lunch, this pasta is guaranteed to satisfy. The versatility of the ingredients, the ease of preparation, and the restaurant-worthy taste make it a must-have in your dinner rotation.

Comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated—and this creamy, cheesy, flavor-packed dish proves it.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: