Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender bowtie pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s an easy, family-friendly dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, this hearty pasta recipe is sure to be a favorite.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

bowtie pastaground beefoniongarlicdiced tomatoes (canned)tomato saucesaltblack pepperItalian seasoningcheddar cheese (shredded)mozzarella cheese (shredded)olive oil

directions

Cook the bowtie pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.

Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Stir in ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.

Drain excess fat from the skillet.

Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to the beef. Stir well and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the beef mixture.

Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top. Stir until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.

Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative to beef.

Add chopped bell peppers or spinach for extra veggies.

Swap the cheddar for pepper jack if you like a little spice.

Top with crushed red pepper flakes or fresh parsley for added flavor and color.

Make it creamy by adding a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni work well too.

What cheese melts best in this dish?

Cheddar and mozzarella melt smoothly, but feel free to try Monterey Jack or provolone.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat just before serving.

Is this dish spicy?

Not by default, but you can add chili flakes or hot sauce to spice it up.

How do I prevent the pasta from overcooking?

Cook it just until al dente and avoid simmering it too long in the sauce.

Can I use fresh tomatoes?

Yes, but canned diced tomatoes are quicker and add consistent flavor.

Can I bake this dish?

Absolutely, transfer it to a casserole dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, omit the beef and add mushrooms or plant-based crumbles.

What’s the best way to add more veggies?

Stir in cooked broccoli, zucchini, or peas.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and has better flavor.

Conclusion

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a cozy, satisfying meal that’s easy to whip up and sure to please the whole family. With its cheesy goodness and flavorful beef, it’s a go-to dish that delivers on taste and convenience. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for leftovers to enjoy later, this recipe has you covered.