One-Pan Cheesy Beef & Bowtie Pasta is the kind of comfort-food magic that happens when simplicity meets serious flavor. Tender bowtie pasta simmers right in a rich, savory beef sauce, soaking up every delicious drop before being smothered in melty cheese that turns gloriously creamy as it melts into the pan.
This dish is fast, fun, and ridiculously satisfying, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Kids love it, adults devour it, and leftovers—if there are any—taste even better the next day. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this one-pan wonder brings joy to the table with every cheesy, beefy, twirlable bite you scoop up.
Equipment You Will Need
- Large deep skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater
- Ladle or heat-safe cup
Ingredients List
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 2 cups uncooked bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt, or to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Optional add-ins: red pepper flakes, spinach, peas, or fresh basil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent browning. Add the ground beef to the pan and break it apart as it cooks, allowing it to brown evenly. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika to build rich, layered flavor. Once the beef is fully browned, stir in the minced garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant. Drain excess fat if necessary, ensuring the mixture remains flavorful but not greasy.
Next, stir in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, mixing well so the beef becomes coated with the savory tomato base. Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring until everything becomes a creamy, bright reddish-orange sauce. Add the uncooked bowtie pasta directly into the pan, spreading it evenly so each piece is submerged.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. As the pasta cooks, it absorbs the broth and cream, becoming tender and flavorful.
Once the bowties are al dente and the sauce has thickened, uncover the pan and stir in half the shredded cheese until melted and incorporated. Let the pasta rest for a minute to thicken. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and allow it to melt into a gooey, irresistible layer.
Taste and adjust seasoning to your preference. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it. Serve hot, garnished with basil, red pepper flakes, or extra cheese. Enjoy every cheesy, beefy bite straight from the skillet.
Expert Tips for Success
Choosing the right pan makes a big difference when preparing one-pan meals, and a deep skillet provides all the room you need for stirring, simmering, and melting cheese without overflow. Browning the beef thoroughly is essential—it builds flavor and creates a rich base for the sauce. If your pan accumulates extra grease during browning, don’t hesitate to drain it lightly.
This keeps the final dish silky instead of oily. Adding spices early helps the flavors bloom and infuse the entire pot, giving the pasta a wonderfully seasoned taste from the inside out. Stir the pasta occasionally while simmering so every farfalle cooks evenly and absorbs the creamy sauce.
Another helpful tip is balancing the sauce thickness as the pasta cooks. Because bowtie pasta absorbs liquid at different rates depending on brand and size, always have extra broth or cream nearby. A small splash can instantly bring the sauce back to the perfect creamy consistency.
When melting cheese into the pasta, add it gradually to prevent clumping. Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest melt—bagged cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture. Finally, let the dish rest after cooking. A brief pause thickens the sauce naturally and gives the pasta time to settle into its luxurious, cheesy coat.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about One-Pan Cheesy Beef & Bowtie Pasta is how easily it adapts to your cravings and pantry staples. If you’re looking for extra vegetables, toss in spinach, zucchini, peas, or mushrooms during the simmering stage.
They soften beautifully and add color and nutrients without taking away from the dish’s comforting simplicity. For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes, chili powder, or diced jalapeños. You can also swap the cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses to create different flavor profiles. Want an even creamier sauce? Add a spoonful of cream cheese during the final minutes of cooking.
If you’re aiming for a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives can stand in for ground beef without sacrificing substance. Gluten-free bowtie pasta works well with slight adjustments—add a bit more broth and stir more frequently to avoid sticking.
For a tomato-free variation, eliminate the diced tomatoes and double the cream for a cheesy Alfredo-style sauce. Whether you tweak the protein, pasta, or cheese, this versatile recipe delivers incredible results every time while welcoming creativity with open arms.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
One-Pan Cheesy Beef & Bowtie Pasta is hearty enough to shine as a complete meal, but pairing it with the right sides elevates the experience. A crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness and adds refreshing contrast.
Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls make perfect companions, letting you soak up any leftover sauce. For a veggie-forward plate, consider roasted broccoli, asparagus, or sautéed green beans for color and crunch. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or grated Parmesan on top of the pasta adds a bright finish and enhances the dish’s presentation.
If you’re serving a crowd or crafting a cozy dinner spread, round out the meal with a light soup—something like tomato basil or roasted red pepper pairs beautifully. For beverages, sparkling water with lemon, iced tea, or red wine such as Chianti or Merlot complements the bold, cheesy flavors.
Kids love this dish with a simple side of fruit or veggie sticks for balance. The pasta also works great in meal prep; pack it with roasted vegetables for a complete lunch. No matter how you serve it, this one-pan meal brings fun, comfort, and irresistible flavor to every table.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating
Storing leftover Cheesy Beef & Bowtie Pasta is a breeze, and the flavors deepen beautifully overnight. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to four days.
When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to restore its silky texture, since pasta continues to absorb moisture as it sits. Warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals to avoid drying out the sauce. Stirring between intervals keeps the cheese smooth and the pasta evenly heated.
If you want to freeze the pasta, portion it into freezer-safe containers to make future meals quick and easy. It freezes well for up to two months, though the pasta softens slightly after thawing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
To revive the creamy consistency, add a bit of cream, broth, or even a splash of milk as it warms. You can also add freshly grated cheese to brighten the flavor after freezing. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh or from frozen, this dish remains delicious, comforting, and satisfying every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes! Penne, rotini, shells, or elbow macaroni all work well.
Can I make it spicier?
Definitely—add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or jalapeños.
Does it have to be cooked in one pan?
No, but one pan makes cleanup easier and the flavor richer.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free bowties and adjust liquid as needed.
Can this dish be made vegetarian?
Absolutely—use plant-based meat and vegetable broth.
