Craving a hearty and satisfying meal that’s both quick and easy to prepare? Look no further than this Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time but still want something delicious. With tender bowtie pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich, creamy tomato sauce, you get a comforting dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent, yet it’s simple enough for even the busiest of cooks to pull off.
What makes this recipe even better is how versatile it is. You don’t need to rush to the store for fancy ingredients—chances are, you already have most of the items in your pantry and fridge. The creamy tomato sauce, with its smooth texture and rich flavor, beautifully coats the pasta, and the ground beef adds a savory depth that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking for a quick dinner for yourself, this meal will not disappoint.
But the best part? It’s customizable! You can adjust the seasoning and spice level to suit your preferences. Add more heat with extra red pepper flakes, or make it milder if you prefer a gentler flavor. This Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef isn’t just a meal—it’s a blank canvas for your creativity in the kitchen.
This dish is a perfect example of how easy it is to take basic ingredients and transform them into something extraordinary. A bit of ground beef, some pasta, a can of tomatoes, and a few other pantry staples—when combined, they create a meal that’s not only delicious but also comforting and filling. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a weekend family meal, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. So let’s get cooking and enjoy a warm, hearty bowl of Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Family-Friendly: A meal that’s loved by both kids and adults.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday pantry staples.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level and flavors to suit your tastes.
Ingredients Overview
This recipe uses simple, accessible ingredients that pack a lot of flavor:
- Bowtie Pasta: Farfalle pasta is used for its fun shape and texture, but you can substitute other pasta shapes like fusilli or penne.
- Ground Beef: Juicy and flavorful, ground beef provides the perfect protein for this dish.
- Crushed Tomatoes and Cream: These form the base of the rich, creamy tomato sauce.
- Seasonings: Garlic, onions, and red pepper flakes give the sauce depth and just the right amount of heat.
How to Make Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef
Ingredients:
- 8 oz bowtie pasta (or similar shape)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- ½ cup onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions (about 8-10 minutes). Once cooked, reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and red pepper flakes. Break up the beef with a wooden spoon, cooking until browned and fully cooked through.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion to the skillet with the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Add the crushed tomatoes and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 8-10 minutes, allowing it to thicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.
Tips for the Best Recipe
- Enhance the Flavor: If the sauce tastes too acidic, a pinch of sugar can balance the tomatoes.
- Cheesy Touch: Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
- Perfect Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming too soft when combined with the sauce.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley can elevate the dish’s flavor.
Variations to Try
- Protein Alternatives: Swap the ground beef for turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for a different flavor.
- Vegetarian Version: For a meatless option, sauté mushrooms or zucchini as a replacement.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Add more or fewer red pepper flakes depending on your desired heat level.
- Creamy Option: Use half-and-half for a lighter version of the creamy sauce, or double the cream for extra richness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! Fusilli, penne, or radiatori are all great alternatives.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Q: How should I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: The sauce freezes well, but the pasta may lose some texture. Store the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
How to Store and Reheat
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or microwave. Add a splash of cream or water to refresh the sauce as needed.
Conclusion
Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef is a quick, easy, and delicious dish that’s perfect for busy nights when you crave comfort food without the long cook time. With simple ingredients and a creamy tomato sauce, it’s a meal that delivers on flavor with minimal effort. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a last-minute meal, this pasta will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.
So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get cooking! This Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef will leave everyone satisfied, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your family’s meal rotation.
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