Introduction
Whip up some fun with our Creamy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef! This flavor-packed dish is perfect for cozy nights in or entertaining friends. With its hearty ingredients and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into this deliciousness and get cooking!
Detailed Ingredients
- 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Instructions
1. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Toss in the ground beef. Break it apart and cook until browned, roughly 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes to mix those flavors.
5. Lower the heat, pour in the heavy cream, and blend until smooth. Add the shredded cheese and mix until it melts into creamy perfection.
6. Mix the cooked pasta into the skillet, coating it thoroughly with the creamy beef sauce. Heat for another 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve warm and top with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Enjoy this creamy bowtie pasta with ground beef that promises to deliver comfort and satisfaction in every bite!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Toss in the ground beef. Break it apart and cook until browned, roughly 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes to mix those flavors.
Step 5: Incorporate Cream and Cheese
Lower the heat, pour in the heavy cream, and blend until smooth. Add the shredded cheese and mix until it melts into creamy perfection.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Mix the cooked pasta into the skillet, coating it thoroughly with the creamy beef sauce. Heat for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 7: Serve
Serve warm and top with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if it appears dry.
Customization Options
Feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for additional nutrition and flavor. Adjust the type of cheese based on your preference.
Cook techniques
Cooking Pasta
Cook the bowtie pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente. This ensures the pasta retains a firm texture and does not become mushy.
Sautéing Aromatics
Sauté diced onions and minced garlic in olive oil until the onion becomes translucent. This step releases their flavors, creating a flavorful base for the sauce.
Browning Ground Beef
Cook ground beef in the skillet, breaking it apart and allowing it to brown. This adds depth of flavor to the dish and creates a rich sauce.
Simmering for Flavor
Simmer the mixture of diced tomatoes, beef broth, and seasonings for several minutes. This helps meld the flavors together, enhancing the overall taste.
Creating Creaminess
Lower the heat before stirring in heavy cream and cheese. This minimizes curdling and helps achieve a smooth and creamy sauce.
Coating the Pasta
Mix the cooked pasta into the skillet, ensuring it is well-coated with the creamy beef sauce. This allows the pasta to absorb the flavors while heating through.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute bowtie pasta with other shapes such as penne, fusilli, or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time based on the package instructions.
Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Yes, you can replace ground beef with plant-based protein or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to make it vegetarian.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be reheated in the microwave or on the stove.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it separately. Cook the pasta fresh right before serving for the best texture.
What can I serve with this pasta dish?
This creamy bowtie pasta pairs well with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.