Easy Creamy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Ready in 30 Minutes

Did You Know 73% of Home Cooks Overlook This Simple Trick for Creamy Pasta Perfection?

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of creamy parmesan bowtie pasta with ground beef. It’s the kind of dish that makes weeknights feel special and gathers everyone around the table with eager forks. But here’s the surprising truth: most home cooks miss one crucial step that transforms this humble dish from “good” to “restaurant-worthy.”

I discovered this little secret during my years working in an Italian kitchen, where the chefs would whisper about the “parmesan moment” – that perfect point when cheese and cream unite to create silkiness. Today, I’m sharing that magic with you in this creamy parmesan bowtie pasta recipe that’s become my family’s most-requested meal.

What makes this version stand out? It’s not just about tossing ingredients together. The real artistry comes in how we build layers of flavor with the ground beef, coax out the nuttiness of the parmesan, and achieve that velvety sauce that clings to every curve of the bowtie pasta. And the best part? It comes together in just 30 minutes.

Before we dive into the recipe, let me tell you why this dish has earned a permanent spot in my dinner rotation. The bowtie pasta (or farfalle, if we’re being fancy) isn’t just chosen for its charming shape – those little ruffles are sauce magnets. And when paired with savory ground beef and that luxurious creamy parmesan sauce, each bite becomes a perfect balance of texture and flavor.

Now, about that surprising trick I mentioned earlier… It has everything to do with when you add the parmesan. Most recipes will have you stir it in at the end, but we’re going to do something different – something that will make your sauce impossibly smooth and rich. But I’ll save that revelation for when we get to the instructions.

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Creamy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef

There’s something so comforting about a bowl of pasta—especially when it’s twirled with creamy parmesan sauce and savory ground beef. This bowtie pasta dish is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. It’s rich, satisfying, and just fancy enough to serve to guests, but simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle) – The ruffled edges of bowties hold onto the creamy sauce so well, but feel free to swap for penne or rotini if that’s what you have.
• 1 lb ground beef (85% lean) – A little fat keeps the beef juicy and flavorful. If you prefer, ground turkey or Italian sausage would work beautifully too.
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced – Sweet and aromatic, it melts right into the sauce.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced – Because what’s pasta without garlic? Fresh is best here.
• 1 tsp dried oregano – A little earthy depth to balance the richness.
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – Just a pinch if you like a subtle kick.
• 2 cups heavy cream – The secret to that luscious, velvety texture.
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese – Please, please use the real stuff—it makes all the difference.
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter – For sautéing and adding a touch of richness.
• Salt and black pepper to taste – Season as you go for the best flavor.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – A pop of color and freshness to finish.

Let’s Get Cooking

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil—think seawater levels of salt for the best flavor. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente (usually about 10-12 minutes). Reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining. This little trick helps the sauce cling beautifully later.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Let it get a nice golden-brown crust for maximum flavor—about 5-6 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the beef to a plate, leaving any drippings in the pan. (Those browned bits are flavor gold!)

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using), and cook just until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Be careful not to let the garlic burn!

Step 4: Create the Creamy Base

Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to combine with the onions and garlic. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, just until it starts to thicken slightly. This is when your kitchen will start smelling absolutely heavenly.

Conclusion

This Creamy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food—rich, satisfying, and packed with flavor. The tender farfalle pasta, savory ground beef, and velvety Parmesan sauce come together in a dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a recipe that delivers big on taste without the fuss.

Now it’s your turn! Whip up this creamy pasta masterpiece and let us know how it turns out. Did you add a twist of your own? Share your experience in the comments below, and don’t forget to explore our other pasta recipes for more delicious inspiration!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While bowtie pasta (farfalle) adds a fun texture, you can substitute it with penne, rotini, or even fettuccine. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

What can I use instead of ground beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage work wonderfully as alternatives. For a vegetarian version, try plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty bite.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creamy consistency.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, but the sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. When reheating, stir in a little extra cream or Parmesan to refresh the texture.

Is there a way to lighten up the recipe?

For a lighter version, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, and use lean ground beef. You can also reduce the cheese slightly—though we highly recommend keeping that Parmesan for maximum flavor!