When you need a comforting, creamy, and cheesy dinner that doesn’t take hours to make, this Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan is exactly what you’re looking for. The bowtie pasta soaks up a rich, velvety sauce that clings to every fold and corner, while the seasoned ground beef adds that savory bite that turns it into a full meal.

Think of it like a cozy skillet dinner that feels both indulgent and familiar. The melted mozzarella brings the stretch, the parmesan brings the depth, and the diced tomatoes add just enough brightness to keep every bite interesting. It’s one of those recipes that disappears fast—so maybe double it if you’re feeding a crowd.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best?

Bowtie pasta (farfalle) holds up beautifully in creamy sauces thanks to its shape. The ridges catch the meat and cheese, giving you that perfect bite every time. If you’re out of bowtie pasta, penne or rotini make great substitutes, but farfalle is ideal for a creamy, hearty dish like this.

Ingredients for the Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan

Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle): Its butterfly shape is perfect for grabbing onto the rich sauce.
Ground Beef: Adds a savory, meaty base that transforms the dish into a full meal.
Onion: Enhances the flavor of the beef and builds depth in the sauce.
Garlic: Brings a warm, aromatic kick.
Italian Seasoning: Infuses every bite with herby goodness.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): For a subtle heat that cuts through the creaminess.
Diced Tomatoes (Drained): Balances the richness and adds texture.
Heavy Cream: The heart of the sauce, creating that luscious, silky texture.
Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into the sauce for gooey, cheesy stretches.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds salty, nutty complexity.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balance.
Fresh Parsley (Optional): A sprinkle on top for color and freshness.

How To Make the Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Cream

Stir in the drained diced tomatoes and pour in the heavy cream. Mix well and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Reduce heat to low and stir in the mozzarella and parmesan cheeses until melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the creamy beef sauce. Mix until all the pasta is well coated and heated through.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top before serving for a fresh finish. Serve hot!

Serving and Storing This Creamy Pasta Dish

This pasta is best served fresh and hot, straight from the skillet. The creamy cheese sauce is at its dreamiest when it’s just melted and clinging to every bite.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s texture. Avoid freezing, as the dairy-based sauce can separate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different meat instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage work well and change the flavor profile slightly.

Is it okay to use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. Whole milk is your best substitute, but the texture won’t be quite as luscious.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and pasta separately a day ahead, then combine and heat just before serving. Add a bit of cream when reheating to bring back the creaminess.

What vegetables can I add to this dish?

Chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers make excellent additions. Just sauté them with the onion for best results.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not by default. The crushed red pepper flakes are optional—feel free to leave them out or increase for more heat.

How do I keep the cheese from clumping?

Add the cheese off the heat or on very low heat, and stir constantly. This helps it melt smoothly into the sauce.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If this creamy beef bowtie pasta hits the spot, here are a few other savory favorites you might love:

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli for a hearty weeknight hit.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce if you’re in the mood for comfort food with a twist.
One-Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta for quick, flavorful indulgence.
Red Pepper Rigatoni: A Creamy Bold Pasta Delight when you want bold and zesty.
Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef for a crave-worthy twist on garlic butter pasta.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Life with Jam Pinterest Recipes.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swap the beef for sausage? Add mushrooms or extra cheese?

I love hearing your spins on these recipes. Got a question? Drop it below—let’s make weeknight dinners more delicious together.

Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

A cozy, cheesy skillet pasta with seasoned ground beef, farfalle pasta, and a rich cream sauce blended with melty mozzarella and sharp parmesan. It’s quick, hearty, and always a crowd-pleaser!

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion until soft, then add garlic and cook 1 more minute.

3. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.

4. Stir in the drained diced tomatoes and pour in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for 3–5 minutes to blend the flavors.

5. Lower the heat and stir in mozzarella and parmesan until the sauce is creamy and smooth.

6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated.

7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot.