Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan

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When I think of the ultimate comfort food, this Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan comes straight to mind. It’s a recipe I go back to over and over again—hearty, rich, and full of flavor. The bowtie pasta perfectly holds onto the creamy, cheesy sauce, and the seasoned ground beef brings the perfect savory bite. It’s one of those dishes that makes the whole house smell incredible and brings everyone to the table without having to call them twice.

I love how effortlessly this meal comes together with just a few pantry staples. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when I need something satisfying on the table fast, but it’s equally perfect for a cozy Sunday dinner. The combination of gooey mozzarella, sharp Parmesan, and just a touch of Italian seasoning makes this dish feel indulgent without being complicated.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan

• It’s a one-pan wonder: fewer dishes, more flavor.
• Incredibly kid-friendly and picky-eater approved.
• Comes together in under 30 minutes.
• Easy to customize with veggies or alternative proteins.
• The sauce is creamy, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible.

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What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan?

I use bowtie pasta (farfalle) because it’s not just pretty—it’s also practical. The ruffled edges and pinched center catch all that velvety cheese sauce and bits of ground beef, giving you a perfect bite every time. That said, if you’re in a pinch, penne, rigatoni, or even rotini would work beautifully too. Just aim for a short pasta shape with some texture so it can hold onto all that creamy goodness.

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Options for Substitutions

Not only is this recipe quick and satisfying, but it’s also forgiving. You can make a few smart swaps depending on what’s in your kitchen:

• Ground Beef → Swap with ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage if you want something leaner or spicier.
• Heavy Cream → Half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese can work if you want to lighten it up.
• Mozzarella & Parmesan → Try a blend of shredded Italian cheeses, white cheddar, or even Gruyère for a richer twist.
• Diced Tomatoes → Roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes add a slightly sweeter and more complex flavor.
• Add-ins → Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or peas for extra nutrition without losing the creamy vibe.

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Ingredients for This Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan

• Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle)
  The shape is ideal for holding onto the creamy sauce and meat, making every bite flavorful.
• Ground Beef
  A hearty and savory base that adds protein and richness to the dish. I usually go with 80/20 for just the right amount of flavor.
• Yellow Onion
  Adds a slightly sweet, aromatic depth to the beef mixture.
• Garlic
  Essential for bringing in that classic savory, Italian-inspired aroma and punch.
• Diced Tomatoes (with juices)
  Provides acidity to balance out the creaminess and adds some vibrant texture.
• Heavy Cream
  The backbone of the sauce—smooth, rich, and luscious.
• Shredded Mozzarella
  Melts into the cream for that gooey, stretchy texture that makes this dish so craveable.
• Freshly Grated Parmesan
  Adds saltiness, sharpness, and umami depth to the sauce.
• Italian Seasoning
  A balanced blend of herbs that gives the pasta its unmistakable homestyle flavor.
• Salt and Pepper
  For seasoning the beef and pasta to bring out every ingredient’s best.
• Fresh Parsley (optional)
  For a pop of color and a fresh finish.

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, but don’t rinse—those starches help the sauce stick beautifully.

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Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess grease if needed.

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Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Push the beef to the side of the skillet and add diced onion. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened, then stir in the minced garlic. Let it cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

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Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Seasoning

Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 5 minutes to bring the flavors together.

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Step 5: Pour in the Cream

Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the heavy cream. Stir and let it warm through until it starts to slightly thicken—about 3 to 5 minutes.

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Step 6: Stir in the Cheese

Add the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan gradually, stirring until fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.

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Step 7: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss to coat every piece in the cheesy, beefy sauce. Let it simmer together for another 2 minutes so the pasta absorbs the flavor.

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Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you like, and serve hot straight from the pan—or even better, from a big serving bowl at the center of your table.

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How Long to Cook the Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan

This recipe is quick from start to finish—perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute guests. Here’s the rough timing breakdown:

• Pasta Boil Time: 10–12 minutes
• Beef Browning & Onion/Garlic Sauté: 7–8 minutes
• Simmering with Tomatoes & Cream: 8–10 minutes
• Cheese Melting & Final Toss: 3–5 minutes

Total cook time: Around 25 to 30 minutes from start to finish.

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Tips for Perfect Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan

• Use Freshly Grated Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that don’t melt as smoothly. Grate your own for the best creamy result.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Al dente is key. It’ll soak up the sauce better and won’t turn mushy.
• Drain the Tomatoes if Needed – If you prefer a thicker sauce, drain some liquid from the diced tomatoes before adding them.
• Season in Layers – Season the beef, then taste and adjust as you go. This gives you full control over the final flavor.
• Let It Sit for a Minute Before Serving – Once everything’s mixed, give the pasta a minute to soak in that cheesy sauce. The texture improves, and the flavors blend beautifully.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though this dish is simple, a few small missteps can affect the final flavor and texture. Keep these in mind:

• Overcooking the Pasta – Farfalle can get mushy quickly. Stick to al dente and remember it’ll cook a little more when mixed with the sauce.
• Skipping the Drain on Ground Beef – If you don’t drain the fat after browning the beef, your sauce may turn greasy instead of creamy.
• Adding Cheese Too Fast – Dumping all the cheese in at once can make the sauce clumpy. Add it slowly and stir well between each addition.
• Using Low-Fat Cream Alternatives Without Adjustments – If you swap out heavy cream for a lighter option, you may need a thickener like a bit of cream cheese or cornstarch slurry to keep the sauce rich.
• Rushing the Simmer – Let the sauce cook down just a little so it clings to the pasta instead of pooling at the bottom.

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What to Serve With Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan

Garlic Bread

The ultimate sidekick. Crunchy, buttery, and perfect for scooping up leftover sauce from your plate.

Caesar Salad

A crisp, refreshing counterpoint to the creamy richness of the pasta. Go classic with romaine, Parmesan, and croutons.

Roasted Broccoli or Brussels Sprouts

Roasting brings out a nutty depth that balances the dish well—and it’s a great way to get your greens in.

Sauteed Spinach with Garlic

Quick, healthy, and light, it won’t compete with the strong flavors of the pasta but adds nutritional balance.

Antipasto Platter

Before serving the main dish, offer a small plate with olives, marinated artichokes, and cured meats for a simple Italian touch.

A Glass of Red Wine

If you’re serving adults, a light red like Pinot Noir or Chianti pairs beautifully with the beef and cheese combo.

Lemon-Infused Sparkling Water

For a non-alcoholic option, something citrusy and bubbly will cut through the creaminess perfectly.

Balsamic-Glazed Strawberries (for Dessert)

A little sweet, a little tangy—this light dessert rounds out the meal without overwhelming it.

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Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (which honestly isn’t often in my house), this pasta stores beautifully:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: You can freeze it, but the cream sauce may change texture slightly. If you do, use a freezer-safe container and eat within 2 months.
• To Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring between rounds.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 6 servings)

• Calories: ~560
• Protein: 29g
• Fat: 31g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Cholesterol: 105mg

Note: These values are approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of ground beef should I use for this pasta?

I recommend using 80/20 ground beef—it has enough fat to stay juicy and flavorful but not so much that it makes the sauce greasy. Just remember to drain any excess after browning.

Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the entire dish and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce before serving.

How can I make this recipe lighter?

Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or evaporated milk, use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and reduce the cheese slightly without losing too much flavor.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check your canned tomatoes and seasonings to ensure they’re gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely. Spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or peas all work great in this pasta. Just cook them along with the beef or sauté them separately and stir in at the end.

What can I use if I don’t have mozzarella?

Try provolone, white cheddar, fontina, or a store-bought Italian cheese blend. Each will slightly change the flavor but still give you that melty, creamy result.

Can I bake this dish?

Yes! After mixing the pasta and sauce, pour it into a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F for about 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

What if my sauce is too thick or too thin?

If it’s too thick, add a splash of pasta water, milk, or cream. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes, or stir in a bit more cheese to thicken.

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Conclusion

Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan is one of those dishes that never lets you down—creamy, hearty, and soul-satisfying. It’s the kind of recipe that makes a regular weeknight feel like a little celebration. With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you can create something seriously crave-worthy and comforting.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal-prepping for the week, or just need a comforting bowl of pasta at the end of a long day, this dish checks all the boxes. And with so many ways to customize it, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again.

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