Looking for a cozy family meal that’s quick and easy? Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef is your answer. This dish combines the cheerful shape of bowtie pasta with savory beef and rich sauce. You’ll love how simple it is to make and how satisfied everyone will feel at the table. Ready to whip up a hearty dinner? Let’s dive into the delicious details and get cooking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Sauce: The combination of crushed tomatoes, herbs, and spices creates a rich, savory sauce that elevates the dish.
- Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults, making it a great choice for family dinners.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the recipe by adding vegetables or substituting the ground beef for another protein.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make bowtie pasta with ground beef. Gather these fresh ingredients:
- 8 oz bowtie pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
These ingredients create a rich and hearty dish. The bowtie pasta brings a fun shape, while the ground beef adds protein. Onions and garlic give great flavor. Crushed tomatoes and beef broth make a tasty sauce. Oregano and basil bring a nice aroma. Don’t forget the fresh basil and Parmesan for a perfect finish.
Using quality ingredients will make your meal even better. Fresh herbs enhance taste while adding color. Always taste your dish as you cook. Adjust seasoning to suit your liking. Enjoy cooking this delicious family meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
To cook the bowtie pasta, start with a large pot. Fill it with water and add a generous amount of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the 8 oz of bowtie pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes. Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent sticking. To achieve the perfect al dente texture, taste a piece a minute before the time is up. It should be firm but not hard. Once ready, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Preparing the Beef
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. While the oil warms, finely chop 1 medium onion and mince 2 cloves of garlic. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion turns translucent. This step brings out the flavors. Next, increase the heat to medium-high and add 1 lb of ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Brown the beef for about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish light.
Making the Sauce
Now, let’s make the sauce. Stir in 1 can (15 oz) of crushed tomatoes and 1 cup of beef broth. Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and 1 teaspoon of dried basil for flavor. If you like a little heat, toss in ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes. This helps the flavors blend together. Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking.
Mixing and Serving
After simmering, it’s time to mix. Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together well, making sure the pasta is coated. Heat this mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes. For serving, use deep bowls to showcase the vibrant dish. Top each serving with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a beautiful touch and enhances the flavor. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
- Best practices for cooking ground beef: Start with a hot skillet. This helps the beef brown nicely. Break the meat into small pieces as it cooks. This ensures even cooking and texture. Drain excess fat after browning if needed. This keeps your dish lighter and more flavorful.
- Enhancing the sauce flavor: Use fresh herbs, like basil and oregano. They add bright notes to the sauce. A splash of beef broth deepens the taste. Simmer your sauce longer for a richer flavor. Stir often to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
- Pairing with side dishes and drinks: Serve with a simple green salad. A fresh Caesar or mixed greens adds crunch. Garlic bread complements the pasta well. For drinks, try a light red wine or sparkling water. These choices balance the meal nicely.
- Storing leftovers and reheating tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the pasta fresh for about 3 days. To reheat, use a microwave or stovetop. Add a splash of water to keep it moist. Stir well to heat evenly. Enjoy your delicious meal again!
Pro Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Always salt your boiling water generously. This enhances the flavor of the pasta and helps it to absorb the sauce better.
- Flavor Boost: For a richer sauce, consider adding a splash of red wine to the skillet after browning the beef. Let it simmer for a few minutes to cook off the alcohol.
- Herb Freshness: Fresh herbs can elevate the dish. If you have fresh basil on hand, use it instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving, adding a splash of broth if it looks dry.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can change the ground beef for turkey if you want a leaner dish. Ground chicken works well too. For a vegetarian option, use lentils or mushrooms. They add a nice texture. You can also mix in veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to boost nutrition. Just chop them small so they blend in.
Flavor Enhancements
Want some heat? Add more red pepper flakes to your sauce. You can also try spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for a kick. If you want to switch up the pasta, use penne or rotini. Each shape holds sauce differently, making it fun to explore.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your bowtie pasta with ground beef fresh, use airtight containers. Place the cooled pasta in these containers promptly after serving. This method helps prevent bacteria growth. In the fridge, it lasts about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it. It can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months without losing flavor. Just remember to label your container with the date.
Reheating Instructions
When reheating, use the stovetop for the best results. Add a splash of beef broth or water to the pasta. This keeps it moist and flavorful. Heat it gently over medium heat while stirring. Avoid high heat, as this can make the pasta mushy. If using the microwave, cover the dish with a damp paper towel. This helps trap steam and keeps the pasta from drying out. Enjoy your warm, hearty meal!
FAQs
How can I make Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef ahead of time?
You can prepare this dish in advance quite easily. Start by cooking the bowtie pasta. Drain and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Next, cook the ground beef with onion and garlic as per the recipe. Once cooked, let everything cool. Store the pasta and beef mixture in separate airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat them together in a skillet. This saves time and makes for a quick meal.
Can I freeze Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. After cooking, let the pasta and beef mixture cool completely. Place them in freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. To thaw, move the container to the fridge overnight. Reheat in a skillet, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to keep it moist.
What are some sides that pair well with this dish?
This hearty meal goes well with several side dishes. Here are some great options:
- Garlic bread for a crunchy, buttery contrast.
- A fresh green salad to add brightness and crunch.
- Steamed broccoli for a healthy green side.
- Roasted vegetables for added flavor and texture.
In this blog post, we covered how to make a delicious Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef. We detailed the main ingredients and gave step-by-step cooking instructions to help you succeed. I shared various tips for enhancing flavors and storing leftovers. Remember, you can swap ingredients or try different pasta shapes for variety. Cooking is fun and personal, so feel free to make this dish your own. Enjoy every bite and impress your family with your cooking skill
Bowtie Pasta Delight with Savory Beef
Ingredients
- 8 oz bowtie pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 15 oz crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- to taste salt and pepper
- for garnish fresh basil leaves
- for serving grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, for about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Lower the heat and allow the mixture to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors together.
- Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet, tossing well to coat the pasta with the meat sauce, and heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top.
