Easy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef

Introduction

Easy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef is a hearty, comforting, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe features tender bowtie pasta tossed in a rich, savory tomato-based sauce with flavorful ground beef, aromatic herbs, and melty cheese. It’s a simple yet delicious meal that comes together quickly with pantry staples, making it a go-to option for families. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a cozy, home-cooked dinner, this dish is sure to please.

I remember the first time I made this for a last-minute family dinner. The kitchen filled with the aroma of simmering tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, and everyone couldn’t wait to dig in. What I love about this dish is how customizable it is—you can add veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition, or switch up the cheese for a different twist. It’s one of those meals that feels comforting and familiar but still leaves room for creativity.

This pasta dish is also incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a single pan for the sauce, you can have a warm, satisfying meal on the table in no time. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, Easy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef is always a winner!

Perfect for:

• Quick and easy dinners
• Family meals
• Meal prepping
• Budget-friendly cooking
• Comfort food lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Easy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef will become a staple in your kitchen:

• Quick and Simple: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein-rich ground beef and satisfying pasta.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients that are easy to find.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable with different vegetables, cheeses, or seasonings.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, with classic, comforting flavors.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 55g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Easy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef:

For the Pasta and Sauce:

• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• 1 lb ground beef (lean)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• ½ cup water or beef broth (for extra flavor)

For Topping:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheddar)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Ingredient Highlights

• Bowtie Pasta: Holds the sauce well and provides a fun, textured bite.
• Ground Beef: A flavorful and protein-rich base for the sauce.
• Tomatoes and Sauce: Create a rich, savory tomato-based sauce.
• Garlic and Onion: Add depth and aromatic flavor.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully for a creamy, cheesy finish.
• Herbs and Spices: Oregano, basil, and paprika enhance the sauce’s depth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Easy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef:

Cook the Pasta:

1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain and Set Aside: Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.

Prepare the Ground Beef and Sauce:

3. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
4. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, and water (or beef broth). Stir in salt, pepper, oregano, basil, paprika, and red pepper flakes if using.
6. Simmer the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. If it becomes too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Combine Everything:

7. Add the Pasta to the Sauce: Stir the cooked bowtie pasta into the sauce, ensuring it’s well coated.
8. Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the pasta, cover the skillet, and let it melt for 2-3 minutes. If desired, stir in Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Serve and Garnish:

9. Plate the Pasta: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil.
10. Enjoy! Pair with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

How to Serve

Easy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef is versatile and can be served in many ways:

• With Garlic Bread: A side of warm, crispy garlic bread complements the dish perfectly.
• With a Side Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• For Meal Prep: Store in meal containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Topped with Extra Cheese: Sprinkle additional Parmesan or mozzarella for extra cheesiness.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Add roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more nutrients.

Additional Tips

Here are some tips to ensure your Easy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef turns out perfectly:

• Use Lean Ground Beef: 85% or 90% lean ground beef reduces excess grease while keeping the dish flavorful.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook until al dente to prevent it from becoming too soft when mixed with the sauce.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Adding a little starchy pasta water helps the sauce cling better to the pasta.
• Let the Sauce Simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer enhances the flavors and richness.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or spice levels as needed.

Recipe Variations

Here are 10 variations you can try for Easy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef:

• Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for heat.
• Cheesy Baked Bowtie Pasta: Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F for 10 minutes.
• Vegetable-Packed: Add bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• Creamy Bowtie Pasta: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or ricotta cheese for a creamy twist.
• Mexican-Inspired: Add taco seasoning and top with avocado and cilantro.
• Protein Boost: Mix in cooked chicken, turkey, or shrimp along with the ground beef.
• Lighter Version: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner option.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular bowtie pasta for gluten-free pasta.
• Pesto Bowtie Pasta: Stir in a tablespoon of basil pesto for a fresh twist.
• One-Pot Pasta: Cook everything in the same pot for easy cleanup.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: This dish freezes well! Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
• Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to refresh the sauce.

Special Equipment

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Easy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef easier:

• Large Skillet: For cooking the beef and sauce.
• Pasta Pot: A large pot for boiling the pasta.
• Wooden Spoon: Useful for stirring the sauce and breaking up ground beef.
• Cheese Grater: For fresh Parmesan or mozzarella.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use another type of pasta?
   Yes! Penne, rotini, or rigatoni all work well with this sauce.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes, prepare the dish and store it in the fridge. Reheat when ready to serve.
3. Can I make it dairy-free?
   Yes, simply omit the cheese or use dairy-free alternatives.
4. Can I add more vegetables?
   Absolutely! Try adding mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

Conclusion

Easy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef is a simple, comforting, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender pasta, a rich tomato sauce, and melty cheese, this meal is guaranteed to satisfy. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a winner. Enjoy every bite! 🍝

Perfect for:

• Quick and easy dinners
• Family meals
• Meal prepping
• Budget-friendly cooking
• Comfort food lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Easy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef will become a staple in your kitchen:

• Quick and Simple: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein-rich ground beef and satisfying pasta.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients that are easy to find.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable with different vegetables, cheeses, or seasonings.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, with classic, comforting flavors.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 55g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Easy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef:

For the Pasta and Sauce:

• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• 1 lb ground beef (lean)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• ½ cup water or beef broth (for extra flavor)

For Topping:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheddar)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Ingredient Highlights

• Bowtie Pasta: Holds the sauce well and provides a fun, textured bite.
• Ground Beef: A flavorful and protein-rich base for the sauce.
• Tomatoes and Sauce: Create a rich, savory tomato-based sauce.
• Garlic and Onion: Add depth and aromatic flavor.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully for a creamy, cheesy finish.
• Herbs and Spices: Oregano, basil, and paprika enhance the sauce’s depth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Easy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef:

Cook the Pasta:

1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain and Set Aside: Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water, and set aside.

Prepare the Ground Beef and Sauce:

3. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
4. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, and water (or beef broth). Stir in salt, pepper, oregano, basil, paprika, and red pepper flakes if using.
6. Simmer the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. If it becomes too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Combine Everything:

7. Add the Pasta to the Sauce: Stir the cooked bowtie pasta into the sauce, ensuring it’s well coated.
8. Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the pasta, cover the skillet, and let it melt for 2-3 minutes. If desired, stir in Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Serve and Garnish:

9. Plate the Pasta: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil.
10. Enjoy! Pair with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

How to Serve

Easy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef is versatile and can be served in many ways:

• With Garlic Bread: A side of warm, crispy garlic bread complements the dish perfectly.
• With a Side Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• For Meal Prep: Store in meal containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Topped with Extra Cheese: Sprinkle additional Parmesan or mozzarella for extra cheesiness.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Add roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more nutrients.

Additional Tips

Here are some tips to ensure your Easy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef turns out perfectly:

• Use Lean Ground Beef: 85% or 90% lean ground beef reduces excess grease while keeping the dish flavorful.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook until al dente to prevent it from becoming too soft when mixed with the sauce.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Adding a little starchy pasta water helps the sauce cling better to the pasta.
• Let the Sauce Simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer enhances the flavors and richness.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or spice levels as needed.

Recipe Variations

Here are 10 variations you can try for Easy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef:

• Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for heat.
• Cheesy Baked Bowtie Pasta: Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F for 10 minutes.
• Vegetable-Packed: Add bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• Creamy Bowtie Pasta: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or ricotta cheese for a creamy twist.
• Mexican-Inspired: Add taco seasoning and top with avocado and cilantro.
• Protein Boost: Mix in cooked chicken, turkey, or shrimp along with the ground beef.
• Lighter Version: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner option.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular bowtie pasta for gluten-free pasta.
• Pesto Bowtie Pasta: Stir in a tablespoon of basil pesto for a fresh twist.
• One-Pot Pasta: Cook everything in the same pot for easy cleanup.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: This dish freezes well! Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
• Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to refresh the sauce.

Special Equipment

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Easy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef easier:

• Large Skillet: For cooking the beef and sauce.
• Pasta Pot: A large pot for boiling the pasta.
• Wooden Spoon: Useful for stirring the sauce and breaking up ground beef.
• Cheese Grater: For fresh Parmesan or mozzarella.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use another type of pasta?
   Yes! Penne, rotini, or rigatoni all work well with this sauce.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes, prepare the dish and store it in the fridge. Reheat when ready to serve.
3. Can I make it dairy-free?
   Yes, simply omit the cheese or use dairy-free alternatives.
4. Can I add more vegetables?
   Absolutely! Try adding mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

Print

Conclusion

Easy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings together tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce in a satisfying meal. Simple to make and packed with delicious flavors, it’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or hearty family dinners.

With its perfectly cooked bowtie pasta and well-seasoned beef, this dish is both filling and versatile. Whether topped with melty cheese or fresh herbs for extra flavor, it’s sure to become a household favorite.

This recipe is easy to prepare with pantry staples, making it a reliable choice for quick meals or meal prepping. Serve it hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese or a side of garlic bread, for a comforting and complete dish.

I’d love to see how your Easy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me so I can admire your delicious creation. Happy cooking!