Rich, creamy, and loaded with savory flavors, this Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan is the kind of comfort food that warms your soul. Tender bowtie pasta is coated in a luscious cheese sauce, with juicy bits of seasoned ground beef and sweet pops of diced tomatoes, creating a balanced and hearty bite every time.

Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or looking to impress guests with minimal effort, this dish delivers. The creamy sauce clings perfectly to the bowtie pasta’s ridges, while the melted mozzarella and Parmesan give each forkful a stretchy, cheesy satisfaction. It’s weeknight-friendly but fancy enough for a weekend indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Ground Beef Bowtie Pasta with Mozzarella and Parmesan

Comfort in a bowl: Creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory flavor.
Easy to make: Perfect for busy weeknights with just a handful of steps.
Family-friendly: A crowd-pleaser that kids and adults will request again and again.
Customizable: Easily add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a nutritional boost.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this pasta shine, having the right tools makes the cooking process smooth and stress-free:

Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: Needed for browning the beef and building the sauce in one pan, minimizing cleanup.
Large Pot for Boiling Pasta: Ensures the bowtie pasta cooks evenly without sticking.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Gentle on your cookware while perfectly mixing the sauce and pasta together.
Colander: For draining pasta quickly without losing heat.
Cheese Grater: Freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan melt more smoothly and add better flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese.

These basics not only make the process easier but also help you achieve the perfect creamy consistency and balanced texture in every bite.

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

Bowtie Pasta: The shape catches the creamy sauce in its folds, ensuring flavor in every bite.
Ground Beef: Adds rich, meaty depth and hearty texture.
Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into the sauce for that signature stretch and creaminess.
Parmesan Cheese: Brings a salty, nutty finish that balances the richness.
Diced Tomatoes: Adds a burst of acidity and sweetness to cut through the cream.
Heavy Cream: Creates the luxurious, velvety base for the sauce.
Garlic: Infuses the dish with aromatic depth.
Onion: Builds a savory foundation for the sauce.
Olive Oil or Butter: Helps sauté the aromatics and adds flavor.
Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Italian Herbs): Enhances and harmonizes all the flavors.

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 and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente. Drain, but reserve about 1 cup of pasta water to adjust sauce consistency later.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil or butter. Cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3 minutes.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Stir in the diced tomatoes and Italian herbs, letting the flavors meld for 2–3 minutes. Lower the heat, then add heavy cream, stirring gently until it starts to thicken.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Mix in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, use a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked bowtie pasta into the sauce, ensuring every piece is coated. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan if desired.

Serving and Storing This Pasta

Serve immediately while the cheese is melty and the sauce creamy. Pair with a crisp green salad and warm, crusty bread for a complete meal. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely. Penne, rigatoni, or rotini hold the sauce beautifully.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can cook the beef and sauce in advance, but for best texture, boil pasta fresh and combine just before serving.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Half-and-half works, though the sauce will be a bit lighter. Whole milk can be used in a pinch.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, though creamy sauces can change slightly after thawing. Freeze in portions; thaw overnight and reheat gently.

How can I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a minced jalapeño with the aromatics.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you love this creamy pasta, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta for a garlicky twist and extra cheesiness.
• Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese when you’re craving sweet heat and comfort.
• One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta for bold, smoky flavor with minimal cleanup.
• Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti if you love extra-creamy, bake-style pasta.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you keep it classic or add spinach, mushrooms, or a pinch of heat? Questions are welcome—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Find more of my daily recipes here: Kitchen By Kate on Pinterest