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Cheesy Beef Bowtie Pasta

Cheesy Beef Bowtie Pasta
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Cheesy Beef Bowtie Pasta is a rich and creamy comfort food dish combining tender ground beef, a velvety cheese sauce made with cream cheese and shredded cheddar, and the fun texture of bowtie pasta. Quick and easy to make in under 30 minutes, this hearty meal is perfect for weeknight dinners and family gatherings. The sauce melts perfectly into the pasta, creating a satisfying dish that is both comforting and flavorful.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Protein

  • 8 oz bowtie pasta
  • 1 lb ground beef

Cheese and Dairy

  • 4 oz cream cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk or cream

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids and Seasonings

  • 1 cup beef broth
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

  1. Cook the Bowtie Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside, reserving some pasta water in case you want to thin the sauce later.
  2. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed for a cleaner finish.
  3. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef, cooking until the onion is translucent and fragrant to build the flavor base for the sauce.
  4. Make the Cheese Sauce: Lower the heat and stir in the cream cheese until melted and smooth. Slowly pour in milk or cream while stirring continuously, then add shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and velvety.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet with the beef and cheese sauce. Mix thoroughly so each piece of pasta is coated in cheesy goodness. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce feels too thick.
  6. Season and Serve: Sprinkle salt, pepper, and paprika to taste. Give everything one last stir, then serve immediately while warm and gooey.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar for better melting and deeper flavor.
  • Do not overcook the pasta; al dente helps it hold shape in the sauce.
  • Melt cheeses gently over low heat to avoid graininess.
  • Reserve pasta water to thin the sauce without losing flavor.
  • Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving for brightness.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy beef pasta, bowtie pasta recipe, comfort food, quick dinner, family meal, creamy pasta, ground beef pasta

Find it online: https://linacorner.com/cheesy-beef-bowtie-pasta/