– **Title**: Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta
– **Ingredients**:
– 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– **Instructions**:
1. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted water. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and ground beef to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula.
4. Drain any excess fat from the skillet, then stir in the beef broth and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
5. Lower the heat and slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning to the sauce, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine the cooked bowtie pasta with the creamy beef sauce in the skillet, tossing to fully coat the pasta.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bowtie Pasta: Farfalle is my go-to for this dish because it holds the creamy sauce well. If you don’t have bowties, try penne or fusilli as they also grab the sauce nicely.
Ground Beef: I love using lean ground beef to keep things simple and healthier. You can swap it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or use a plant-based ground meat if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness, but you can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce. For a non-dairy choice, coconut cream can provide a rich texture though it will change the flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is perfect for its melting quality. If you prefer a bolder taste, try sharp cheddar or even mix in some gouda. For a dairy-free option, consider a plant-based cheese that melts well.
How Do I Get the Creamy Sauce Just Right?
Making a creamy sauce can be tricky, but with the right steps, it’s easy! The key is to combine heat and patience when mixing in the cream and cheese.
- Once you’ve added the cream, keep the heat low to avoid curdling. Stir gently but consistently.
- Add the cheese gradually, letting it melt fully between each addition. This ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
- Don’t rush! Give it those 3-5 minutes to really meld the flavors together. It makes a world of difference.
How to Make Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Sauce:
- 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this recipe is about 25 minutes. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing and cooking the pasta and another 15 minutes making the creamy beef sauce. In no time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bowtie Pasta:
Begin by cooking the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions. You want it to be al dente, which means it should be firm when bitten. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Once it’s cooked, drain it in a colander and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Cook the Beef Mixture:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook this mixture for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is nicely browned and the onions are soft and translucent. If there’s any extra fat, you can carefully drain it from the skillet.
3. Add Flavorful Ingredients:
Next, pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and sprinkle the Italian seasoning into the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Let this mixture come to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, which helps all the flavors blend together beautifully.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Now, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing well until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes creamy. This should take about 3 to 5 minutes, and the smell will be amazing!
5. Combine with Pasta:
Finally, it’s time to add the drained bowtie pasta to the skillet with the creamy beef sauce. Gently toss the pasta to ensure it’s evenly coated with the sauce. Add salt and pepper to taste, giving it a little stir.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy beef and bowtie pasta immediately in bowls. Don’t forget to garnish it with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top for a nice touch. Enjoy your comforting meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used in this recipe for a lighter option. Just be aware that lean meats might require a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor, so consider adding a pinch more salt and pepper or extra Worcestershire sauce.
What if I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of flour to thicken. For a dairy-free option, try coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative, but note that these will change the flavor slightly.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover creamy beef and bowtie pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much during storage.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Simply sauté the vegetables with the onion and garlic until they’re tender before adding the beef. This is a great way to boost the nutritional value of your meal!
