Add the Ground Beef: Add 1 lb of ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Cook the beef until it’s fully browned, about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Tip: For a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken, though the flavor will be lighter. For more on ground beef and its uses in cooking, check out this resource.
Building the Sauce
Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in one 14.5 oz can of diced tomatoes and 1 cup of beef broth. The tomatoes add acidity and a slight sweetness, while the broth deepens the flavor.
Season with Paprika, Salt, and Pepper: Add 1 tsp of paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. The paprika brings subtle warmth and a lovely color to the sauce.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5-10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld, creating a cohesive sauce.
Adding Cream and Cheese
Incorporate Heavy Cream: Lower the heat and pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream, stirring continuously until well combined. This step gives the sauce its creamy texture.
Tip: To avoid curdling, add the cream slowly over low heat. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you could use whole milk or a dairy-free cream.
Add Shredded Cheese: Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. The cheese thickens the sauce and enhances its savory taste.
Tip: For an extra cheesy flavor, try mixing in a bit of gouda or mozzarella. Parmesan cheese also works well for a sharper taste.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
Mix in the Pasta: Toss the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet, stirring until each piece is well-coated in the creamy beef sauce. Heat for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the pasta to soak up the flavors.
Tips for Perfect Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef
Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef
