Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef: 7 Comforting Tips

Name: Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef: 7 Comforting Tips
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 8 oz bowtie pasta; 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste

September 14, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef! This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly evening—so comforting and absolutely satisfying. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma of garlic and onions sizzling on the stove practically pulled my family into the kitchen! It’s such a simple recipe, yet it brings everyone together around the table, devouring every last bite. The combination of tender bowtie pasta enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce and savory ground beef is just irresistible. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means less mess for me to clean up later! Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll quickly become a go-to for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef - detail 1

Ingredients

8 oz bowtie pasta
1 lb ground beef
1 cup packed shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh, whichever you prefer)
1/2 cup onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth (homemade or store-bought)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

How to Prepare Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef

Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta

First things first, let’s get that pasta going! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add in your bowtie pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—usually around 8-10 minutes. Don’t forget to stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick together! Once it’s done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. This step is super important, as it helps keep your pasta from getting mushy in the final dish.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Now, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add your ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula as it browns. You’ll want to keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally, until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink. Once it’s browned, carefully drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish a bit lighter and healthier. Trust me, it makes a difference!

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Next up, it’s time to add those aromatic veggies! Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook them together for about 3-5 minutes, stirring often, until the onion turns translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant. Oh wow, the smell at this point is just heavenly!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Now, let’s bring this dish together! Stir in your diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. It’s a good idea to bring the mixture to a boil—this helps to meld all those flavors together beautifully. Just keep an eye on it, and don’t let it boil over!

Step 5: Simmer the Mixture

Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This simmering step is crucial as it allows the flavors to develop and deepen. You’ll see the mixture thicken up a bit, which is exactly what we want!

Step 6: Mix in the Pasta

Now comes the fun part—mixing in the pasta! Add your cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet and stir until every piece is coated with that delicious sauce. It’s like a cozy pasta hug! Make sure it’s all well combined, so every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 7: Add Cheese and Serve

Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. Cover the skillet for just a few minutes until the cheese melts into gooey perfection. Serve it hot, and watch everyone gather around the table—trust me, they won’t be able to resist!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s a quick and easy one-pan meal that comes together in just 30 minutes!
The comforting flavors of cheesy goodness combined with savory ground beef are simply irresistible.
It’s versatile—feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
The leftovers (if there are any!) taste even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
You can easily customize the cheese—try mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a blend for a fun twist!
This dish is a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
It’s gluten-free if you use gluten-free pasta, so everyone can enjoy it!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef turns out perfectly every time! Here are my top tips for success:

Keep an eye on the pasta: Overcooking can lead to mushy pasta, so stick to the package instructions for al dente. It’ll soak up all that delicious sauce without falling apart!
Brown the beef well: Don’t rush this step! Get a nice brown color on the ground beef to enhance the flavor. The caramelization adds depth to your dish.
Fresh herbs make a difference: If you have fresh basil or parsley on hand, toss some in at the end for a pop of color and flavor. You’ll be amazed at how it brightens up the dish!
Customize your cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese! Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan can elevate the flavor profile.
Don’t skip the simmer: Allowing the mixture to simmer for the full 10 minutes helps meld all those rich flavors together, so be patient—it’s worth it!
Spice it up: If you like a little kick, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when mixing in the tomatoes. A little heat enhances the overall flavor!
Stir in some veggies: Sneak in chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color. Just toss them in when you add the tomatoes!
Store leftovers wisely: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’re great for lunch the next day, and the flavors deepen overnight!

With these tips, you’ll definitely impress everyone at the dinner table. Get ready for some compliments!

Nutritional Information

Okay, let’s talk numbers! While I’m all about enjoying delicious food, I know some folks like to keep an eye on the nutritional side of things. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values per serving for this cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef:

Calories: 450
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
Protein: 25g

Keep in mind, these values are based on typical ingredients and can vary depending on what you use—like if you swap in a different type of cheese or add in extra veggies. But hey, it’s all about balance, right? Enjoy that cheesy goodness while being mindful of what you’re eating!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making this cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I’ve come across, along with my tips to help you out:

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and you’ll still get a deliciously comforting dish.

What if I don’t have bowtie pasta?

No problem! You can use any type of pasta you have on hand—penne, rotini, or even spaghetti will work perfectly. Just keep an eye on the cooking time since it may vary.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

For sure! Just skip the ground beef and replace it with your favorite plant-based protein, like lentils or crumbled tofu. You can also add more veggies to bulk it up and keep it hearty!

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of beef broth to bring back that creamy goodness!

Can I freeze cheesy bowtie pasta?

Yes! You can freeze it for up to 2 months in a tightly sealed container. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. It may not be quite as creamy after freezing, but it’s still delicious!

What other veggies can I add to this recipe?

Get creative! Bell peppers, spinach, zucchini, or even broccoli can all be great additions. Just remember to sauté them a bit with the onions and garlic for the best flavor.

Can I add more cheese?

Oh, definitely! If you’re a cheese lover like me, go ahead and sprinkle in more cheese before serving. You can even mix different types for extra flavor—just remember, the cheesier, the better!

Hopefully, this clears up any questions you might have. Now, let’s get cooking and enjoy this amazing dish together!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, let’s talk about how to keep those delicious leftovers fresh and tasty! If you happen to have any cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef left after dinner (though I doubt it!), you’ll want to store it properly to maintain that scrumptious flavor and texture.

First, let the pasta cool down a bit before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent any moisture from building up inside, which can make your pasta soggy. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s sealed tight so it doesn’t absorb any other fridge smells!

When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is super simple. You can pop it in the microwave for a quick fix—just add a splash of beef broth or a bit of water to keep it from drying out. Heat it in short intervals, stirring in between, until it’s warmed through. If you prefer the stovetop method, just toss it into a skillet over low heat, adding a little liquid as needed, and stir until everything is nice and hot.

And there you have it! Easy storage and reheating tips that keep your cheesy bowtie pasta just as delightful as the first time you made it. Enjoy every bite!

For more delicious pasta recipes, check out Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta and Easy Dinner Recipes with Ground Beef.

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.