Introduction:
Cheesy Beef & Bowtie Pasta is the ultimate comfort food. This creamy, cheesy one-pot meal combines tender bowtie pasta, savory ground beef, and a delightful blend of tomatoes, cream, and spices. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to treat the family to a filling meal, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that balances convenience and flavor. The rich combination of cheddar, cream cheese, and sour cream creates a velvety sauce, while Italian seasoning and paprika add a touch of warmth and depth. Plus, the entire meal comes together in just over half an hour, making it the go-to choice for a quick yet satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese (cubed)
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Preparation:
Step 1:
Boil a large pot of salted water. Once boiling, add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This should take around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water, and set both aside.
Step 2:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until they soften and turn translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 3:
Once the onions are soft, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break the beef up with a spoon as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, or until the beef is fully browned. Drain any excess grease from the skillet for a leaner result.
Step 4:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and onions. Stir constantly for 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant but doesn’t burn. Then, pour in the diced tomatoes (along with their juices) and tomato sauce. Stir in the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat). Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5:
Reduce the heat to low and add the cubed cream cheese and sour cream to the skillet. Stir slowly until the cream cheese fully melts and combines with the tomato-beef mixture, creating a smooth and creamy sauce. Make sure to stir constantly to prevent the cream from curdling.
Step 6:
Gently fold the cooked bowtie pasta into the sauce, mixing until each pasta piece is well-coated in the cheesy, beefy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 7:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta. Cover the skillet with a lid for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt, or place the skillet under a preheated broiler for about 2 minutes for a bubbly, golden cheese topping.
COOKING Note:
For the richest flavor, use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream. If you prefer a spicier kick, adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or swap the paprika for smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the Cheesy Beef & Bowtie Pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a touch of freshness. Pair it with a side salad of mixed greens and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta. A slice of garlic bread or a crusty baguette would also complement the dish well, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Tips:
- To make this meal even quicker, prep your ingredients while the pasta is boiling. This way, you can have the dish ready in a flash once the pasta is done.
- For added vegetables, throw in a handful of spinach or some diced bell peppers when adding the tomatoes.
- If you want to lighten up the dish, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken, and swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt.
- Leftovers can be easily reheated the next day, and the flavors may even intensify after resting in the fridge overnight.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
25 minutes
Total Time:
35 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 780mg
Conclusion:
This Cheesy Beef & Bowtie Pasta recipe is the epitome of comfort food. With its creamy sauce, savory beef, and tender pasta, it’s bound to become a family favorite. The best part? It’s quick, easy, and only requires one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this dish is sure to please.
FAQ:
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the entire dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
2. Can I freeze Cheesy Beef & Bowtie Pasta?
Absolutely! Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as mentioned above.
3. Can I substitute the ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives can be used. Adjust the seasonings as needed since these options may have slightly different flavors.
4. What other cheeses can I use?
Besides cheddar, you can try mozzarella for a gooey texture or add Parmesan for a nutty, salty punch. A blend of cheeses will create an even richer, more complex flavor.
5. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply swap the bowtie pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Be sure to check the other ingredients like the tomato sauce to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.
If you’re eager to explore a wider variety of mouthwatering recipes, you can click here to uncover a collection of dishes that suit every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for quick and easy meals or something more elaborate, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to elevate your cooking experience!