Next, once the beef is nicely browned, pour in the beef broth and stir in the heavy cream. I love this part — the rich aroma fills my kitchen, and you can already sense how creamy the sauce will be! Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste, and let everything simmer for about 5 minutes. Stirring occasionally helps meld all the flavors together, and you’ll notice the sauce thickening slightly as it cooks.
When the pasta is ready, drain it well and then add it to the skillet with the creamy beef sauce. Toss everything together gently, ensuring each bowtie is coated in that heavenly sauce. This step is crucial because you want the creamy goodness to envelop every piece of pasta perfectly. Finally, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until it melts into the sauce. It becomes wonderfully gooey and enhances that creamy texture.
To serve, I like to ladle generous portions onto each plate and sprinkle with fresh garlic. The colors and textures create a delightful presentation! Plus, if you have it on hand, a sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a lovely touch of freshness.
Pro Tips for Best Results
I tested this recipe three ways to really nail the flavor and texture. One thing I learned is that fresh ground beef offers a juicier result than pre-packaged options. If you can, go for organic or grass-fed beef; you’ll be amazed at the depth of flavor!
Another tip is to be patient when letting the sauce simmer. Give it time to develop the flavors! I initially rushed it on one occasion, and the sauce was good but didn’t have that rich, layered taste that makes this dish stand out.
Finally, don’t skip on the cheese! While I know it can be tempting to cut down for dietary reasons, the mozzarella is what makes this dish so creamy and delicious. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I made the first time I made this dish was overcooking the pasta. The bowtie pasta should be al dente, or it will become mushy once combined with the sauce. Always check the cooking time on the package and set a timer. It’s easier to undercook and let it finish cooking in the sauce than to fix overly soft pasta! (See the next page below to continue…)