When you’re looking for a comforting, creamy pasta dish that’s both hearty and easy to prepare, this Creamy Beef Bowtie Pasta hits all the right notes. It combines tender bowtie pasta with savory ground beef, smoky turkey bacon, and a rich, cheesy sauce that’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

This recipe is ideal for those busy evenings when you want something flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. Using turkey bacon instead of pork keeps it a bit lighter, while chicken ham adds a subtle smoky flavor and extra protein. The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese creates a luscious sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta.

I love how this dish balances creamy, cheesy goodness with the fresh flavors of garlic and onion, plus a hint of Italian seasoning for that classic pasta flair. It’s easy enough for beginners but flavorful enough to please a crowd.

Let’s start by gathering the ingredients and cooking the pasta and meat.

Ingredients

• 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 oz turkey bacon, chopped
• 1 cup chopped chicken ham
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup beef broth (no wine)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

STEP 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce and meat.

STEP 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Turkey Bacon

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped turkey bacon, cooking until the beef is browned and the bacon is crisp. If there’s excess fat in the pan, carefully drain it off to avoid a greasy sauce.

STEP 3: Add Chicken Ham and Vegetables

To the skillet with the beef and bacon, stir in the chopped chicken ham, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for your creamy sauce.

Creamy Beef Bowtie Pasta Recipe for Easy Dinner

Now that your pasta is cooked and your savory beef and turkey bacon mixture is perfectly sautéed with onions and garlic, it’s time to bring everything together with a luscious, creamy sauce. This step transforms simple ingredients into a rich, comforting dish that’s bursting with flavor.

Let’s move on to making the sauce and combining it all for the perfect creamy beef bowtie pasta.

STEP 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour the beef broth and heavy cream into the skillet with your cooked meat and vegetables. Stir well to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 3 to 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. This creates a velvety base that will coat your pasta beautifully.

STEP 5: Add the Cheese

Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.

The cheeses add richness and that irresistible gooey texture that makes this dish a true comfort food classic.

STEP 6: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Add the cooked bowtie pasta directly to the skillet. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy beef sauce.

This step is all about combining flavors and textures so that every bite has a perfect balance of tender pasta, savory beef, and cheesy sauce.

STEP 7: Serve and Garnish

Transfer your creamy beef bowtie pasta to serving plates or a large serving bowl. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if you like—it adds a fresh, bright touch to the dish.

Serve immediately while it’s warm and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this easy pasta dinner.

Tips and Variations

• Vegetable Add-ins: For extra nutrition and color, toss in some sautéed spinach, peas, or cherry tomatoes when adding the cream.
• Cheese Choices: Feel free to swap mozzarella for provolone or add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar for a sharper bite.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle heat that complements the creamy sauce.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Creamy Beef Bowtie Pasta Recipe for Easy Dinner

Now that you’ve mastered the creamy, cheesy sauce and perfectly combined it with tender bowtie pasta and savory beef, it’s time to wrap things up. This dish is a perfect weeknight meal—easy to make, packed with flavor, and comforting enough to satisfy everyone at the table.

Before you dive in, here are some frequently asked questions and tips to help you get the best results every time and make the most out of your leftovers.

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and meat mixture in advance and store it separately from the pasta. Reheat gently on the stove, then toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

2. How do I reheat leftovers without drying out the sauce?
Reheat leftovers slowly on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or milk to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving without adding liquid, as this can dry it out.

3. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great leaner alternatives. Just adjust cooking times accordingly and season well to maintain flavor.

4. What’s the best way to cook bowtie pasta?
Cook the pasta al dente according to package instructions. This means it should be tender but still slightly firm to the bite, so it doesn’t get mushy when mixed with the sauce.

5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Spinach, peas, or diced tomatoes are excellent additions. Add them when simmering the sauce for a fresh boost of flavor and nutrition.

6. Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative and use dairy-free cheese options to make this recipe suitable for dairy-free diets.

Final Thoughts: Comfort Food Made Simple and Delicious

This Creamy Beef Bowtie Pasta recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a rich, comforting meal that’s perfect for busy nights or casual dinners with family and friends. The combination of ground beef, turkey bacon, chicken ham, and a luscious cheese sauce wrapped around perfectly cooked pasta is a sure winner.

It’s easy to customize, quick to prepare, and satisfying every single time. Whether you stick to the classic version or add your favorite vegetables or spices, this dish will quickly become a staple in your weeknight dinner lineup.

Give it a try and enjoy the creamy, cheesy, flavorful goodness in every bite. Don’t forget to share your twists or favorite ways to serve it—I’d love to hear how you make this recipe your own!

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