Description
Creamy Beef & Pasta Magic
Take your pasta game to the next level with this creamy beef and bowtie pasta recipe. Perfectly cheesy and irresistibly good!
Ingredients:
Ground beef, farfalle pasta, olive oil
Onion, garlic, broth, cream, cheddar, Parmesan
Instructions:
Cook pasta and set aside.
Brown ground beef with onion and garlic in olive oil.
Stir in broth and cream, simmering until thick.
Add cheddar and Parmesan, mix with pasta, and enjoy!
#CheesyPastaLove
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the finely chopped onion to the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the broth and cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Reduce heat to low. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the creamy beef sauce. Toss to combine thoroughly. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached. Serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and creamy pasta dish is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a vegetable boost, try serving it with steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus. Garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh chopped parsley, or a crack of black pepper for a restaurant-quality finish.
How-to Summary
In summary, this creamy beef pasta is a one-pan wonder. Cook your pasta, then in a separate skillet, brown ground beef with onion and garlic. Create the creamy base by simmering broth and cream, then melt in cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Finally, combine the sauce with the drained pasta, toss, and serve for a quick, comforting, and cheesy dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely. While farfalle (bowtie) holds the sauce well, penne, rigatoni, or shells are excellent substitutes.
How can I make this dish less rich? Substitute half the cream with whole milk or use a lighter cream. You can also use a leaner ground beef or ground turkey.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? The sauce can be made 1-2 days in advance and stored in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen it, before mixing with freshly cooked pasta.
My sauce seems too thin. How do I thicken it? Let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce. Alternatively, create a quick slurry by mixing 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the simmering sauce.
Can I freeze leftovers? Cream-based sauces can separate when frozen and reheated. For best texture, it’s recommended to enjoy this dish fresh or refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it will continue to soften in the hot sauce—aim for al dente. Do not add the cheese to a boiling sauce, as high heat can cause it to become grainy and separate; always reduce the heat to low first. Finally, remember to reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid is the key to perfectly binding the sauce to the pasta if your mixture seems dry.
Conclusion
This Creamy Beef & Pasta recipe is the ultimate weeknight comfort food, delivering maximum flavor with minimal fuss. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that transforms simple ingredients into a decadent, satisfying meal. With the detailed steps, tips, and tricks provided, you’re equipped to avoid common pitfalls and create a perfectly creamy, cheesy pasta dish every single time. Give it a try and experience the magic for yourself!
