Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Recipe: A Comforting, Hearty Meal
Bowtie pasta with ground beef is a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of tender bowtie pasta and seasoned ground beef in a rich tomato sauce makes for a cozy, filling meal the whole family will love. This recipe is quick to make, bursting with flavor, and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or cheeses for extra richness.
Bowtie pasta, or farfalle, dates back to the 16th century in Italy, originating from the Lombardy and Emilia-Romagna regions!
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup beef broth (or pasta water)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation
Cook the 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 and set aside.
Brown the Ground Beef
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through.
- Season the beef with a pinch of salt and pepper. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Sauté the Aromatics
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the beef, cooking for 3–4 minutes until softened. Then, add the garlic and cook for another 1 minute, stirring frequently.
Make the Tomato Sauce
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and tomato paste. Add the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss everything together, coating the pasta well with the sauce. If using, sprinkle with shredded cheese and let it melt.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.
Variation
Add extra veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for more nutrition and color. You can also swap the ground beef with ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor.
Cooking Note
If you prefer a creamier sauce, stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream or cream cheese right before adding the pasta to the skillet. This will add a luxurious richness to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this bowtie pasta with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan and red pepper flakes is always a welcome addition.
Tips
- Using Pasta Water: Instead of beef broth, you can reserve some of the pasta cooking water to help thicken and flavor the sauce.
- Seasoning the Meat: Season the ground beef while it browns for a more flavorful base.
- Storing Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water or broth.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Total Fat: 18g
- Sodium: 700mg
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, rotini, or even spaghetti work well in this recipe if you don’t have bowtie pasta on hand.
3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. However, the pasta may soften slightly upon reheating.
Conclusion
This Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef is a quick, hearty dish that brings comforting flavors to your dinner table. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s a meal the whole family will love. Perfect for those busy nights when you want something delicious without the fuss, give this recipe a try and enjoy a comforting classic!