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## **Instructions**
### **Step 1: Cook the Pasta**
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the **bowtie pasta** and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes).
2. Drain the pasta, reserving **1 cup of pasta water**. Set the pasta aside.
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### **Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef**
1. While the pasta cooks, heat the **olive oil** or **butter** in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the **ground beef** to the pan and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about **6-8 minutes**.
3. Season the beef with **salt**, **pepper**, **oregano**, and **red pepper flakes** (if using). Stir to combine.
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### **Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic**
1. Once the beef is cooked, add the **chopped onion** to the pan and sauté for about **3 minutes**, or until the onion softens.
2. Add the **minced garlic** and cook for another **1 minute**, until fragrant.
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### **Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce**
1. Stir in the **tomato paste**, followed by the **beef broth** and **heavy cream**. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about **5 minutes**, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
2. Stir in the **cheddar cheese** (or Parmesan), and cook until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, you can add some of the **reserved pasta water** to reach your desired consistency.
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### **Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce**
1. Add the cooked **bowtie pasta** to the skillet with the creamy beef mixture. Toss to coat the pasta in the sauce, making sure everything is well combined.
2. Cook for an additional **2-3 minutes** to allow the pasta to absorb some of the sauce.
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### **Step 6: Garnish & Serve**
1. Serve the creamy beef and bowtie pasta in bowls, and garnish with fresh **parsley** or **basil** if desired.
2. Enjoy your creamy, comforting, and flavorful meal!
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## **Pro Tips & Variations**
✅ **Vegetable boost**: Add **spinach**, **zucchini**, or **mushrooms** to the beef mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
✅ **Cheese options**: Swap the cheddar for **mozzarella**, **Parmesan**, or a combination of your favorite cheeses for different flavor profiles.
✅ **Add some crunch**: Top with **crispy bacon** or **toasted breadcrumbs** for extra texture.
✅ **Make it spicier**: Increase the **red pepper flakes** or add a few dashes of **hot sauce** for a little heat.
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## **Final Thoughts**
This **Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta** is the ultimate comfort food that’s rich, hearty, and easy to make. It’s a crowd-pleasing meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a **creamy**, **flavor-packed** pasta dish that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Give this recipe a try next time you want a meal that’s both comforting and quick to prepare – your family (and taste buds) will thank you! 🍝
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