Easy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan

If you’re craving a dinner that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor, this Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan is your new go-to. This dish combines tender bowtie pasta with savory ground beef, all smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce featuring gooey mozzarella and sharp Parmesan. It’s simple enough for weeknights but special enough to impress family and friends, delivering a perfect blend of textures and tastes in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Cheesy Comfort: Loads of mozzarella and Parmesan add that irresistible creamy, cheesy goodness.
• Family Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults, making it a crowd-pleaser.
• One-Pan Cleanup: Minimal dishes with one skillet doing all the heavy lifting.
• Versatile: Easily adjustable with your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things simple but powerful. Each ingredient plays a key role— from the hearty ground beef adding rich flavor and protein, to bowtie pasta providing a fun, bite-sized texture that holds the sauce beautifully. The cheeses? They bring that perfect creamy and slightly tangy finish you’ll love.

• Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef to keep it flavorful without excess fat.
• Bowtie Pasta: Also called farfalle, this pasta shape captures sauce in every crease.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Use shredded for quick melting and a stretchy texture.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for a sharp, nutty flavor that complements mozzarella.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a fragrant, savory base.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
• Diced Tomatoes: For a mild tang and to keep the sauce light yet flavorful.
• Cream or Milk: Creates the luscious, creamy sauce binding everything together.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing and adding a subtle fruity note.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all the ingredients’ flavors.
• Italian Herbs: A simple blend of basil, oregano, and parsley elevates the taste with herbal freshness.

Variations for Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan

One of the best parts about this dish is how adaptable it is! Feel free to swap ingredients or add extras to make it your own, whether for dietary preferences or just mixing up flavors on the go.

• Vegetarian Version: Replace ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based meat alternatives for a hearty meal.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for an exciting spicy twist.
• Veggie Boost: Stir in spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Cheese Swap: Use provolone or fontina in place of mozzarella for a different melty experience.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute bowtie pasta with a gluten-free version to suit dietary needs.

How to Make Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the bowtie pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving about half a cup of the pasta water for later.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Add diced onions and minced garlic to the beef. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Stir in diced tomatoes, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors. Then, add cream or milk and half of both the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet, gently tossing to coat everything evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Finish off with the remaining shredded mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

Step 6: Melt the Cheese

Cover the skillet with a lid and allow it to sit on low heat for a few minutes, or place it under a hot broiler briefly to melt and slightly brown the cheese for an irresistible finish.

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan

• Choose Quality Cheese: Freshly shredded mozzarella and Parmesan give the best melt and flavor compared to pre-shredded store-bought cheese.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook bowtie pasta just until al dente to avoid a mushy texture after mixing with the sauce.
• Use Reserved Pasta Water: Adding pasta water helps the sauce cling better and adjusts consistency naturally.
• Drain Grease Well: Removing excess fat from ground beef keeps the sauce from becoming oily.
• Layer Flavors: Sauteing garlic and onions with the beef builds a rich flavor foundation—don’t skip!

How to Serve Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley scattered over the finished dish add a bright pop of color and fresh herbaceous notes that complement the rich cheeses beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair this pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or simple roasted vegetables to balance out the meal with some freshness and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in individual bowls topped with extra grated Parmesan and a drizzle of good olive oil, or bake in a casserole dish with an extra layer of cheese for a bubbly, golden crust that’s perfect for cozy dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and maintains its creamy texture.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, but the texture of pasta slightly softens upon thawing. Freeze portions in sealed containers for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water to refresh the sauce. Alternatively, microwave covered in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is ideal for holding the sauce, penne, rigatoni, or rotini can also be great substitutes depending on your preference.

Is ground beef the only meat option?

No, you can swap ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for different flavor profiles or to lighten the dish.

Can this recipe be made dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and a plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk to achieve a similar creamy texture without dairy.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe is mild by default, but you can easily add chili flakes or hot sauce to increase heat to your liking.

What’s the best way to reheat without drying out the pasta?

Reheat gently on the stovetop with a little added milk or pasta water, stirring frequently to keep the sauce creamy and prevent drying.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan is truly a weekday hero—comforting, cheesy, and totally satisfying every single time. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced home chef, it brings together simplicity and flavor in the most delightful way. Give it a try tonight and prepare to fall in love with an easy recipe that feels like a warm hug in every bite.

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