Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a go-to weeknight meal that’s comforting, hearty, and absolutely packed with flavor, look no further than Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef. This dish is a true family favorite, blending tender bowtie pasta with savory ground beef in a rich tomato sauce, all finished with plenty of Parmesan and fresh parsley. It’s the kind of recipe that’s easy enough for busy nights, yet special enough to make everyone at the table feel like they’re getting a warm culinary hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef is just how simple but essential each ingredient is. Every item in this lineup brings something important to the dish, whether it’s comforting texture, robust flavor, or a vibrant pop of color that makes dinner feel extra inviting.
- Bowtie (farfalle) pasta: The signature shape holds sauce perfectly in every bite and adds visual fun to the plate.
- Ground beef: Provides hearty protein and a savory base that makes this meal truly satisfying.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the beef brown beautifully for extra flavor.
- Onion: Brings sweetness and depth to the sauce as it sautés.
- Garlic: Infuses the dish with irresistible aroma and classic Italian undertones.
- Crushed tomatoes: Create a luscious, tangy sauce that coats every piece of pasta.
- Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce just right.
- Dried Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the sauce its signature Mediterranean flair.
- Salt: Essential for bringing out all the other flavors in the dish.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle kick if you like things a bit spicy.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce and adds a nutty, salty finish.
- Fresh parsley: Brings a burst of color and fresh, herby brightness to the final dish.
How to Make Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef
Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package directions until just al dente. This ensures that the pasta will hold up well when tossed with the sauce later. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside—you’ll want it ready to go when the sauce is finished.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once it shimmers, crumble in the ground beef. Cook, stirring and breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink. This step gives the dish its deep, savory flavor, so don’t rush it!
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion has softened and the garlic is aromatic. This melds their sweetness and fragrance right into the meat.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat. Mix everything well, then reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes. This step is where all the flavors mingle and the sauce thickens up to perfection.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked bowtie pasta directly to the skillet and toss to coat every piece evenly in that rich, beefy tomato sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up just a bit.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Right before serving, sprinkle the dish generously with grated Parmesan cheese and finish with a shower of fresh parsley. Give everything a gentle toss and get ready for the best part—digging in!
How to Serve Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef
Garnishes
Nothing beats the finishing touches! Try an extra handful of grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of chopped parsley, or even a drizzle of good olive oil for a glossy sheen. For a little zing, add a few cracks of black pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes right on top.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette, or some roasted vegetables for extra color and nutrition. And of course, a basket of warm garlic bread or a rustic loaf of Italian bread is perfect for mopping up that delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef in individual bowls, topped with a swirl of ricotta or a dollop of fresh pesto. You can also nestle the pasta into a large serving platter and let everyone help themselves family-style—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at potlucks or gatherings!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef, simply transfer it to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making leftovers a real treat for lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef is freezer-friendly, making it a fantastic make-ahead option. Let the pasta cool completely, then portion into airtight containers or freezer bags. Freeze for up to 2 months, and don’t forget to label and date for easy meal planning.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the pasta gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through for even heating. Top with fresh Parmesan and parsley to refresh the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is classic here, you can swap in penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package directions.
Is there a way to make Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef lighter?
Yes! You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and opt for part-skim Parmesan to cut down on fat while keeping all the flavor.
What if I don’t have crushed tomatoes?
No worries—diced tomatoes will work in a pinch. You can pulse them in a blender for a smoother sauce if you prefer.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach make great additions. Just toss them in with the onion and garlic for extra color and nutrients.
How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy when reheating?
Reheat gently and avoid overcooking. Adding a splash of water or broth helps revive the sauce and keeps the pasta from drying out or becoming too soft.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a cozy, flavorful dinner that’s as easy to make as it is to love, Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef is truly hard to beat. I hope this recipe becomes a regular at your table, bringing smiles and second helpings every time you serve it. Give it a try, and let the magic of simple ingredients shine!
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Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef is a hearty and delicious Italian-American main course that combines tender farfalle pasta with a rich, seasoned meat sauce. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this flavorful dish is enhanced with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a satisfying meal the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Toppings
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks to ensure even browning.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the onions are softened and fragrant.
- Add tomatoes and seasonings: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
- Simmer the sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to deepen the flavors.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked bowtie pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce and heat through for a minute or two.
- Finish and serve: Sprinkle the dish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped parsley before serving to add a burst of flavor and color.
Notes
- For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream or a handful of shredded mozzarella cheese before serving.
- This recipe works well with ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to beef.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder sauce.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
