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Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes).
- Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of pasta water. Set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef to the pan and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.
- Season the beef with salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
- Once the beef is cooked, add the chopped onion to the pan and sauté for about 3 minutes, or until the onion softens.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Stir in the tomato paste, followed by the beef broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese (or Parmesan), and cook until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, you can add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet with the creamy beef mixture. Toss to coat the pasta in the sauce, making sure everything is well combined.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb some of the sauce.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
- Serve the creamy beef and bowtie pasta in bowls, and garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
- Enjoy your creamy, comforting, and flavorful meal!
Pro Tips & Variations
✅ Vegetable boost: Add spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the beef mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
✅ Cheese options: Swap the cheddar for mozzarella, Parmesan, or a combination of your favorite cheeses for different flavor profiles.
✅ Add some crunch: Top with crispy bacon or toasted breadcrumbs for extra texture.
✅ Make it spicier: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a few dashes of hot sauce for a little heat.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that’s rich, hearty, and easy to make. It’s a crowd-pleasing meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a creamy, flavor-packed pasta dish that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Give this recipe a try next time you want a meal that’s both comforting and quick to prepare – your family (and taste buds) will thank you! 🍝
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