There’s just something about cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef that wraps you in a warm hug, don’t you think? It’s the ultimate comfort food, blending the rich flavors of savory beef, creamy cheese, and tender pasta into one delightful dish. Every bite feels like a cozy night in, perfect for family dinners or when you just need a little extra love in your life. I remember my mom making this for us after long school days, and the smell would drift through the house, instantly making everything feel better. Trust me, this dish doesn’t just fill your belly; it fills your heart too. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef is a go-to recipe that never disappoints!
Ingredients List
- 8 oz bowtie pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef
Making cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef is as satisfying as it is simple! I promise, if you follow these steps, you’ll have a delicious dish ready in no time. Let’s dive in!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz of bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain and set aside.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add 1 lb of ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break it up with a spatula as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Add Aromatics: Toss in 1/2 cup of chopped onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. Wow, the smell is amazing already!
- Mix in the Good Stuff: Now, stir in 1 cup of diced tomatoes, 1/2 cup of cream, 1 tsp of Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. It’s all coming together beautifully!
- Combine Pasta and Cheese: Finally, add the cooked bowtie pasta and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir everything together until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined. Give it a taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Serve warm and enjoy! You can even sprinkle a little extra cheese on top for that cheesy goodness overload.
And there you have it! A comforting, cheesy dish that’s ready to be devoured. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- One-pot dish means less cleanup, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal.
- Rich and creamy flavors that everyone in the family will love.
- Versatile recipe—feel free to add in your favorite veggies for an extra boost of nutrition.
- Comforting and filling, making it a great option for feeding a crowd.
- Leftovers are just as delicious, making it a perfect meal prep option!
Tips for Success
To really nail your cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef, here are some of my favorite tips! First off, use high-quality ground beef—leaner options like 80/20 give you the best flavor without being too greasy. If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing in some ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist. And don’t skip on the cheese! Freshly shredded cheddar melts better and gives you that gooey, creamy texture we all crave.
When cooking the pasta, make sure to salt the water generously; it’s your only chance to season the noodles! Also, keep an eye on the garlic while sautéing; you want it fragrant but not burnt. If you like a little kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes when you add the tomatoes for a subtle heat. Lastly, don’t hesitate to tweak the seasoning to your taste. A dash of Worcestershire sauce can add a whole new layer of flavor. Trust me, these little adjustments make a big difference!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the nutritional breakdown for a serving of cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef. Keep in mind these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. But this should give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying!
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 30g
This cheesy, hearty dish not only satisfies your cravings but also packs a good punch of protein to keep you feeling full and happy. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is fun and holds the sauce beautifully, you can easily swap it for any pasta shape you love—penne, rotini, or even spaghetti work great!
What can I add for extra flavor?
Oh, there are so many possibilities! You can throw in some bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms for a veggie boost. Herbs like basil or parsley sprinkled on top really elevate the dish, too.
How do I store leftovers?
To store your cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of cream to bring back that creamy goodness!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare everything up to the point of adding the cheese and pasta. Store the meat sauce in the fridge, and when you’re ready to eat, just reheat it and mix in the cooked pasta and cheese. It’s a great time-saver!
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Definitely! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It should last about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.
Serving Suggestions
- A crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
- Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks are perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce.
- Roasted or steamed vegetables, like broccoli or green beans, bring a healthy touch.
- A glass of red wine, such as a Chianti, pairs beautifully with the rich flavors.
- For a fun twist, serve with a side of crispy potato wedges for a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef is super easy! Once you’ve enjoyed your meal, let any leftovers cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer them to an airtight container. This will keep the pasta fresh and delicious for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
If you’re looking to save some for later, this dish is also freezer-friendly! Just make sure to portion it out properly in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. It can stay in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge.
For reheating, you can pop it in the microwave for a quick fix. Just add a splash of cream or a little bit of water to keep it from drying out, then heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until piping hot. If you prefer to reheat on the stove, add it to a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, and again, don’t forget that splash of cream for extra creaminess! With these tips, you’ll have a comforting meal ready to go, just like the first time!
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Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef: 5 Comforting Steps
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef is a comforting dish that combines pasta, beef, and cheese in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients
- 8 oz bowtie pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add onion and garlic to the skillet, cooking until softened.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the cooked pasta and cheese to the skillet. Mix until cheese is melted and everything is combined.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
- This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef, pasta recipes, comfort food
