If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor, this Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe is an absolute winner. It brings together perfectly cooked bowtie pasta and savory ground beef in a rich tomato sauce, seasoned just right with Italian herbs and a dash of heat. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual family dinner, this recipe delivers hearty satisfaction with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients come together here to create a balanced dish, each playing a key role in flavor, texture, or color. It’s amazing how a handful of pantry staples can transform into something so delicious!
- Bowtie (farfalle) pasta, 12 ounces: The charming shape holds sauce perfectly and adds a fun texture.
- Olive oil, 1 tablespoon: Adds richness and helps brown the beef evenly.
- Ground beef, 1 pound: Provides hearty protein and deep, savory flavor.
- Small onion, diced: Offers sweetness and a bit of crunch after sautéing.
- Garlic, 2 cloves minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth.
- Diced tomatoes with juice, 1 can (14.5 oz): Adds juiciness and a bright, tangy base for the sauce.
- Tomato sauce, 1/2 cup: Enhances thickness and richness of the sauce.
- Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon: A blend of herbs that bring that classic Italian flair.
- Salt, 1/2 teaspoon: Balances all flavors perfectly.
- Black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon: Adds subtle heat and depth.
- Crushed red pepper flakes, 1/2 teaspoon (optional): For a gentle kick if you like some spice.
- Grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup: Provides a nutty and salty finish that ties the dish together.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup (optional): Melts beautifully for added creaminess.
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional): Adds freshness and a pop of color at the end.
How to Make Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil—this is key to seasoning the pasta from the inside out. Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, which means it should still have a little bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. The slight chewiness will help it hold up perfectly when tossed with the sauce later.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it turns a beautiful golden brown, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This process should take about 5 to 7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it off so the dish doesn’t become too greasy.
Step 3: Add Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the diced onion and sauté it with the beef for around 3 to 4 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. Then stir in the minced garlic, cooking for another minute. This step builds an aromatic layer, adding sweetness and depth that lifts the entire dish.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the tomato sauce. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes if you want to add a touch of heat. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 8 to 10 minutes. This simmering melds the flavors beautifully and thickens the sauce just right.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese
Once the sauce has developed, add the cooked bowtie pasta directly into the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly in that savory goodness. Then stir in the grated Parmesan and the shredded mozzarella cheese if you’re using it. The cheese melts into the dish, making it creamy and irresistible. At this point, your Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe is ready to serve!
How to Serve Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten up the dish and add a fresh touch, sprinkle some chopped parsley or fresh basil on top just before serving. Not only does it add gorgeous color, but it also gives a lovely herbal lift that complements the richness of the sauce perfectly.
Side Dishes
This hearty pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. These sides add an extra layer of texture and nutrition, balancing the meal so it feels satisfying but not over-indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe in individual pasta bowls with a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese. Alternatively, you could place it in a shallow casserole dish and broil it for a couple of minutes to get a bubbly, golden cheese crust on top. It makes the meal feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To help maintain flavor and texture, wait until the pasta has cooled to room temperature before refrigerating it.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe freezes well. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, and it will keep for up to 2 months. When freezing pasta with sauce and cheese, it’s best to slightly undercook the pasta initially so it doesn’t become mushy when reheated.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. Avoid high heat to preserve the pasta’s texture and prevent the cheese from becoming rubbery.
FAQs
Can I substitute the ground beef with other meats?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage work wonderfully in this Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe. Just adjust cooking times slightly based on the meat you choose.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, this dish is fantastic for meal prepping. It holds up well in the fridge for a few days and reheats beautifully, making it a convenient and tasty option for busy weeks.
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Definitely. Spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini can be added to boost nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them along with the onions for the best results.
What type of pasta can I use if I don’t have bowtie pasta?
Any short pasta shape like penne, rotini, or rigatoni can be swapped in. The key is a pasta that holds sauce well and adds pleasing texture.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, simply omit the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses or use dairy-free alternatives. The rich tomato sauce and seasoned beef will still shine on their own.
Final Thoughts
This Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe is one of those go-to meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s straightforward to make, packed with flavor, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding the family or cooking for yourself, I promise this dish will quickly become a favorite. Give it a try and enjoy every comforting forkful!
Print
Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American-Italian
Description
This Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef recipe is a hearty and flavorful American-Italian main course perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender bowtie pasta is tossed in a savory tomato sauce simmered with browned ground beef, onions, garlic, and Italian seasonings, then finished with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese for a creamy, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté aromatics: Add diced onion to the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Make the sauce: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and tomato sauce. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Reduce heat and simmer the sauce for 8 to 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Toss pasta with sauce: Add the cooked pasta back into the skillet and toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Add cheeses: Stir in Parmesan cheese and, if using, shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and well combined.
- Serve: Serve the pasta warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or basil if desired.
Notes
- Add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
- You can substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
- This dish reheats well, making it a great option for leftovers.
