Last week, my daughter had a friend over, and I was wracking my brain trying to figure out something quick and easy that both kids would actually eat. You know how it is – picky eaters can be the bane of a home cook’s existence! I remembered a dish my mom used to make when I was little, and with a few tweaks, I came up with this absolutely delicious cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef. Seriously, the silence at the table when they started eating was golden.

Picture this: tender bowtie pasta, perfectly browned ground beef, all coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce that stretches into delightful strings with every bite. The aroma alone is enough to make your stomach rumble! What I love most about this cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef is how incredibly simple it is to throw together, even on those hectic weeknights when you’re juggling homework, after-school activities, and a million other things. It’s a complete meal in one pot, which means fewer dishes to wash – always a win in my book! My kids devour this cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef every single time. My youngest even requests it for his birthday dinner!

I’ve made this cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef so many times now that I’ve got it down to a science. I’ve also learned a few tricks along the way – like adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick, or using different types of cheese to switch things up. I remember the first time I tried making it, I totally forgot to drain the beef properly and the sauce was way too greasy. Lesson learned! Now, I always make sure to drain the beef really well.

This cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef has become a family staple for several reasons. It’s comforting, it’s easy, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies – I often add diced carrots or zucchini to the sauce. The possibilities are endless! Seriously, even my husband, who is usually a tough critic, raves about how good this cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef is. He says it reminds him of his childhood!

I know you’re going to love this recipe as much as my family does. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or just a cozy night in. So, grab your ingredients, put on some music, and let’s get cooking! Trust me, this cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef will quickly become a favorite in your household, just like it has in mine. I can’t wait for you to try this – it’s become such a staple in our house!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this fantastic cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef. I always try to use the best quality ingredients I can find because it really does make a difference in the flavor.

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1 pound ground beef: I usually go for 80/20 for the best flavor, but you can use leaner ground beef if you prefer. USDA FoodData Central: Ground Beef
1 pound bowtie pasta: Any short pasta shape will work, but bowties (farfalle) are my family’s favorite. National Pasta Association: Pasta Shapes Guide

1 medium onion, chopped: Yellow or white onion works great.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is always best, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch (about 1 teaspoon).
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes: I like to use crushed tomatoes with basil for extra flavor.

1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce: Make sure to check the sodium content if you’re watching your salt intake.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a lovely Italian flavor.
1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Complements the oregano perfectly.

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a little kick! My kids love it, but you can leave it out if you’re sensitive to spice.
1 cup beef broth: Adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: I use a mix of mild and sharp cheddar for the perfect cheesy flavor. My kids prefer mild cheese, but you can absolutely use sharp cheddar for more flavor.

1/2 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce extra creamy and rich. I’ve found that using whole milk instead of 2% makes all the difference.
Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t be afraid to season generously!

Here’s a little tip my mom taught me: when browning the ground beef, don’t overcrowd the pan. Brown it in batches to get a nice, even sear. It makes all the difference in the world! Also, I buy my ground beef in bulk at Costco and freeze portions for later use. It’s a real money-saver! If you can’t find fresh herbs, dried works fine – just use half the amount. And remember, for the best cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef, quality ingredients are key!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create the most delicious cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef you’ve ever tasted. I promise, it’s easier than you think!

Preparing Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef

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Cook the pasta: Cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Remember to salt the pasta water – it makes a big difference!

Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet or pot, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Don’t worry if it looks a little messy at first – mine always does too! For even browning, ensure the pan isn’t overcrowded; work in batches if necessary. This allows each piece of beef to sear properly, enhancing its flavor and texture.
Drain the excess grease: This is crucial! Drain off any excess grease from the ground beef. Trust me, you don’t want a greasy sauce. Use a fine-mesh sieve or a strainer to ensure all excess fat is removed. This step is vital for achieving a balanced and palatable dish.
Add the onion and garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen starts smelling absolutely amazing. After burning garlic one too many times, I learned to add it later in the process to prevent burning. Cooking the garlic until fragrant is key, but be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to the dish.

Stir in the tomatoes, tomato sauce, and seasonings: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir well to combine. This combination creates the foundational flavor profile of the sauce, providing depth and richness.
Add beef broth: Pour in the beef broth and bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. During this time, I usually do the dishes to save time later! Simmering the sauce allows the flavors to deepen and harmonize, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful dish.
Stir in the cooked pasta: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and stir to coat it evenly with the sauce. Ensure the pasta is well-coated to maximize flavor in every bite. Gently toss the pasta with the sauce to avoid breaking it.

Add the cheese and heavy cream: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. This step transforms the sauce into a luscious, cheesy delight. Use a low heat to prevent the cheese from clumping or burning.
Season to taste: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, taste as you go! Seasoning is crucial, but it’s important to do it gradually, tasting and adjusting as needed. This ensures the dish is perfectly balanced to your preferences.
Serve and enjoy! Serve the cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef immediately. This has become our go-to for Sunday dinners with the grandparents. Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes can enhance the flavors, but it’s best enjoyed while the cheese is still melted and gooey.

I learned the hard way to let it rest for a few minutes before serving – trust me on this one! My husband always asks me to make extra cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef because he loves the leftovers for lunch. If this happens, don’t panic – here’s how to fix it: add a little extra beef broth or water if the sauce gets too thick. And there you have it – a delicious and easy cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef that your whole family will love!

Serving Ideas

This cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef is a complete meal in itself, but here are a few ideas to take it to the next level.

We love this with a simple green salad and some crusty bread. The salad adds a nice fresh contrast to the richness of the pasta, and the bread is perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce. I like to sprinkle fresh herbs on top of the pasta – it makes it look so much fancier! This cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef has become our go-to for Sunday dinners with the grandparents.

For a more substantial meal, you can add a side of roasted vegetables, like broccoli or Brussels sprouts. These add extra nutrients and fiber to the meal. Roasting the vegetables brings out their natural sweetness, complementing the savory pasta. My daughter always asks for extra sauce on her portion.

This cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef is also great for potlucks and gatherings. It’s easy to transport and always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to double or triple the recipe to feed a larger group. The kids always fight over who gets the crispiest pieces.

If we somehow have leftovers, they make the best lunch the next day. Just reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a little extra cheese on top for extra goodness! This recipe says it serves 6, but in our house it barely feeds 4 hungry people! And don’t forget, a little grated Parmesan cheese on top of this cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef never hurt anyone!

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef recipe.

Q: Can I use a different type of ground meat?

A: Absolutely! Ground turkey or ground chicken would work well in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Using leaner meats can also reduce the overall fat content of the dish.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

A: Yes, you can! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or use sautéed mushrooms. Using a variety of mushrooms can add depth and umami to the vegetarian version.

Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?

A: Definitely! Diced carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach would be great additions to this recipe. Adding vegetables not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds texture and flavor complexity.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare this cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving. I’ve definitely overcooked this before – here’s how to avoid that: use a lower heat and stir frequently. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to maintain its creamy consistency.

Q: Can I freeze this dish?

A: Yes, you can freeze this cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Freezing is a great way to preserve leftovers and enjoy them at a later date.

Q: What if I don’t have bowtie pasta?

A: Any short pasta shape will work, such as penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni. The key is to choose a shape that holds the sauce well. My mother-in-law is on a low-sodium diet, so here’s how I modify it for her: I use low-sodium broth and tomato sauce. Don’t have a stand mixer? No problem – I use my hand mixer and it works great! Also, remember, the key to a good cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef is to not overcook the pasta!

Conclusion

This cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. It’s the kind of dish that brings back fond memories and creates new ones around the dinner table. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal but also special enough to serve to guests. I love how versatile it is – you can easily customize it to your family’s preferences.

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Always let the pasta rest for a few minutes before serving – I learned this the hard way when I served it too soon and it fell apart! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of cheese – mozzarella, provolone, or even Gruyere would be delicious. And remember to season generously – salt and pepper are your friends!

My son loves this cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef with extra cheese, while my daughter prefers it plain. It’s funny how everyone has their own little preferences! But no matter how you serve it, I’m confident that this cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef will be a hit with your family. It’s truly a comfort food classic! Try my Keto Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry, or try my Chinese Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry

Don’t be intimidated – if I can make this on a busy Tuesday night, you absolutely can too! Just follow the steps, trust your instincts, and have fun in the kitchen. Remember, cooking is about creating something delicious and sharing it with the people you love. For perfect pasta doneness every time. For safe food handling, remember to check the internal temperature of your beef. Food Safety.gov: Safe Minimum Internal Temperatures

I’d love to hear how this cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef turns out for your family – drop me a comment below and let me know! I’m always eager to hear your feedback and any variations you might have tried.

Happy cooking, and I hope this cheesy bowtie pasta with ground beef becomes as beloved in your kitchen as it is in mine!

Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef

Print Recipe

A delicious and cheesy bowtie pasta recipe that’s perfect for any occasion! With five amazing cheeses, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Author: Kiera
Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Category: Pasta
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound bowtie pasta
1/2 cup butter
1/4 cup flour

3 cups milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded provolone cheese

1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

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Instructions

Cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions.
While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.

Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 5 minutes, or until thickened.
Stir in the salt, pepper, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, provolone cheese, parmesan cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth.

Drain the pasta and add it to the cheese sauce.
Stir to coat.
Serve immediately.

Notes

For an even cheesier dish, top with extra cheese before serving! You can also add cooked vegetables or protein to the pasta for a complete meal.