Julia Walton
This Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan is the kind of weeknight magic everyone craves. Perfectly al dente bowtie pasta is coated in a luscious, cheesy sauce with juicy cherry tomatoes, seasoned ground beef, and just the right touch of herbs. It’s quick, hearty, and delivers all the cozy comfort of a baked pasta dish in half the time.
What sets this dinner apart is how beautifully the mozzarella melts into the savory beef mixture, while grated Parmesan adds a nutty sharpness that ties it all together. The tomatoes burst with juicy sweetness, and that creamy sauce wraps every bite in decadence. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for an easy comfort food recipe, this one’s got your back.
What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?
Farfalle, commonly known as bowtie pasta, is the perfect choice here. Its pinched centers and ruffled edges capture the creamy beef sauce beautifully, giving every bite texture and flavor. If you’re in a pinch, penne or rotini can step in, but the visual charm and sauce-grabbing curves of farfalle make this dish shine.
Ingredients for the Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan
Ground Beef: Brings hearty flavor and rich texture to the dish—a staple protein that satisfies.
Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle): Its shape cradles the sauce, giving you the perfect pasta-to-sauce ratio.
Cherry Tomatoes: These little bursts of juicy sweetness help balance the richness of the cheese and beef.
Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into the sauce for a gooey, creamy finish.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty edge and thickens the sauce.
Heavy Cream: The key to that irresistibly silky sauce.
Garlic & Onion: Build the base flavors and aroma of the sauce.
Olive Oil: Used to sauté the aromatics and beef to perfection.
Italian Seasoning & Black Pepper: For warmth and depth, rounding out the entire flavor profile.
Fresh Parsley (optional): Adds a pop of color and brightness.
How To Make the Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the bowtie pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Sauté chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent, then add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Cream
Toss in the cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes so the flavors meld.
Step 5: Add Cheeses
Lower the heat and stir in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan. Stir continuously until both cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
Step 6: Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked bowtie pasta into the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Let it warm through for a minute.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve warm and enjoy that creamy, cheesy goodness!
Tips for Serving and Storing This Pasta
This pasta is best served hot, fresh from the skillet. The creamy sauce will be at its silkiest, and the mozzarella will have that perfect melty pull. If you’re making it ahead, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy consistency.
You can also freeze portions in sealed containers for up to 2 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight and warm up gently on the stovetop or microwave with a bit of added liquid to refresh the sauce.
What to Serve With Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta?
Garlic Bread
The buttery, garlicky crunch complements the creamy texture of the pasta perfectly.
Caesar Salad
A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing contrast and balances the richness of the pasta.
Roasted Broccoli
Its slightly bitter, roasted edges pair beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Steamed Green Beans
Light and simple, green beans offer a subtle crunch and vibrant color.
Caprese Salad
Fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil tie in nicely with the dish’s ingredients.
Sautéed Spinach with Garlic
A quick sauté of spinach with garlic gives a healthy, earthy green note.
Cheesy Breadsticks
For carb lovers, soft breadsticks with melted cheese are a welcome indulgence.
Red Wine
Pair with a medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or Chianti for a fuller flavor experience.
Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?
If you love this creamy ground beef pasta, check out these other crave-worthy dishes:
- Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup for a cozy, spoonable option.
- Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni if you’re in the mood for something bold.
- Creamy Velveeta Beef Bowtie Pasta for a cheesier variation.
- Cheesy Ranch Chicken Garlic Butter Fettuccine with creamy ranch flair.
- Delicious Philly Cheese Steak Pasta for a fun dinner twist.
Save This Pin For Later
Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.
Tried it with a twist? Maybe a splash of bourbon or a drizzle of glaze? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.
Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.
Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Pot for Pasta
- Strainer
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 oz bowtie pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 small onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped optional
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they soften.
- Pour in the heavy cream and simmer for 3-4 minutes to combine flavors.
- Reduce the heat and stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
- Toss the cooked bowtie pasta in the sauce until fully coated.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.