Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan

There’s a certain warmth that fills the kitchen when you’re stirring a pot of creamy pasta, isn’t there? I remember the first time I attempted this Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan. I was aiming for comfort food perfection, but let’s just say, my sauce ended up more like a gloopy mess than a velvety dream. It took a few tries (and some serious advice from my Italian neighbor, Rosa) to nail that lush, creamy consistency without the clumps. But, oh, was it worth it!

Now, this dish is a staple in my home. It’s the kind of meal that gathers everyone around the table, wide-eyed and hungry. The kids love when I announce it’s ‘Bowtie Night,’ and honestly, watching that mozzarella stretch with each scoop is half the fun. So, let me share this little piece of my kitchen with you—it’s homely, hearty, and utterly irresistible.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this cozy classic. (And don’t worry, I’ve learned to always have extra Parmesan on hand—just in case!)

• 1 lb ground beef (the good stuff, trust me)
• 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle if you’re feeling fancy)
• 2 cups beef broth (homemade if you’ve got it)
• 1 cup heavy cream (no skimping here)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (get the whole milk variety)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for sprinkling)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of basil, oregano, and thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Roll up your sleeves and let’s dive in! Remember, pasta waits for no one, so have everything ready to go before you start cooking.

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onions and cook until they’re translucent—about 3 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and give it a good stir. You want that fragrant smell, not burnt garlic bitterness, so keep it moving for about a minute.
3. Now, for the ground beef. Crumble it into the skillet and brown it nicely. This is where you get to sprinkle some salt and pepper. Browned bits equal flavor!
4. Pour in the beef broth and bring it to a simmer. Then, add your bowtie pasta. It’s going to soak up all that beefy goodness as it cooks, so make sure there’s enough liquid to cover the pasta.
5. Reduce the heat, cover the skillet, and let it simmer until the pasta is al dente. That’s chef speak for ‘cooked, but still firm to the bite.’ It’s about 15 minutes, but keep checking!
6. Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for another couple of minutes. Here’s where magic happens, and you get that creamy sauce we’re after.
7. Finally, fold in the mozzarella and Parmesan until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. If it’s too thick, splash in a bit more broth or cream—you’re the boss of your sauce!

Tips & Tricks

Here are a few nuggets of wisdom to help you along:

• Use a large skillet. Trust me, you want room for that pasta to dance around in the sauce.
• Don’t overcook the pasta in the broth. It’ll keep cooking in the cream, so pull it off the heat when it’s just shy of done.
• If you’re out of heavy cream, a dollop of sour cream mixed with milk can save the day (learned this the hard way).
• For a spicy kick, throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic. It’ll make your sauce sing!

FAQ

A few questions I get asked a lot:

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! While bowtie pasta adds a touch of whimsy, any short pasta will do the trick.

Q: I’m trying to cut down on dairy. Any substitutes for the cream?
A: For sure! You can use coconut milk for a dairy-free version, but it’ll have a slight coconut flavor.

Q: How long can I store leftovers?
A: In an airtight container in the fridge, this dish will stay delicious for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to keep it moist.

My mom always said the best recipes are the ones that bring family together. Honestly, this Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan embodies that sentiment. It’s a meal steeped in the cultural story of Italian comfort food, but with a down-home, everyone’s-welcome twist.

As the seasons change, I find myself drawn to this recipe over and over. It’s perfect for a chilly autumn evening or as a hearty reward after a long day of spring gardening. Just last week, I made it to celebrate my son’s soccer win—it’s become a bit of a tradition.

And, if you’re anything like me, you’ll find that the leftovers (if there are any!) taste even better the next day. The flavors meld together overnight, creating a depth that’s just divine. So, don’t hesitate to make a little extra—you’ll thank yourself later.

Whether it’s a Tuesday night dinner or a weekend feast, this recipe is a comforting hug in a bowl. So, grab your pot and let’s make some memories—one delicious, cheesy, beefy bite at a time. Happy cooking!