Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef is a comforting and versatile dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. Featuring hearty ground beef, perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, and a rich, savory tomato sauce, this recipe delivers flavor in every bite. Add some veggies, cheese, or spices to make it your own, and you’ve got a meal that’s easy to love. Simple to prepare and full of hearty goodness, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation and now let’s cooking our Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt (for the pasta water)
For the Sauce:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- ½ cup (120 ml) beef broth (or water)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Additions:
- 1 cup (120 g) shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- 1 cup (100 g) diced bell peppers (for extra veggies)
- 1 cup (150 g) sliced mushrooms
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cook 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.
- Drain the pasta, drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Season with salt and pepper, then remove the beef from the skillet and set aside, leaving a small amount of grease in the pan.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the onion and cook for 2–3 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
4. Make the Sauce
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and beef broth to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Season with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
- Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Combine with Pasta
- Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly in the sauce.
- If adding cheese, sprinkle it over the pasta and cover the skillet for 2–3 minutes until melted.
6. Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
- Pair with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips
- Customize Your Sauce: Add your favorite veggies like zucchini, spinach, or carrots for extra nutrition.
- Spice It Up: For a bolder flavor, mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
- Cheese Lovers Unite: For a creamy version, stir in ¼ cup heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese before serving.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.
Freezer
- Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or sautéed lentils.
- Low-Carb Version: Swap the bowtie pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- Cheesy Baked Pasta: Transfer the pasta to a baking dish, top with shredded cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Mediterranean Twist: Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
Nutrition Details (Per Serving, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 22 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 6 g
FAQ
Q: Can I use another type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or shells work great in this recipe if you don’t have bowtie pasta on hand.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the sauce and toss with freshly cooked pasta before serving.
Q: How do I make it creamier?
Add ¼ cup heavy cream or a splash of milk to the sauce during the last 5 minutes of simmering for a creamier texture.
Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative without sacrificing flavor.