Bow tie pasta, or farfalle, isn’t just adorable—it’s also incredibly versatile. Its unique shape holds sauces beautifully, making it a favorite for hearty, comforting meals. When paired with ground beef, it transforms into a satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
We love how this combination brings together tender pasta and savory beef in a way that feels both simple and indulgent. Whether we’re craving a creamy sauce, a tomato-based classic, or something with a bit of spice, bow tie pasta and ground beef always deliver. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize and even easier to whip up.
Bow Tie Pasta Recipes With Ground Beef
When it comes to quick, hearty meals that offer versatility and flavor, Bow Tie Pasta Recipes With Ground Beef are a top choice. Below, we’ll walk through a step-by-step guide to creating a delicious version of this beloved combination. The process is simple enough for busy weeknights yet satisfying enough to serve during a casual gathering.
Ingredients
- 12 oz bow tie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean for the best balance of flavor and texture)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicier kick)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Bow Tie Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions (8-10 minutes) until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set it aside.
2. Brown the Ground Beef
- Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it into crumbles with the back of a spoon.
- Season with salt and pepper, then remove the beef and set it aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics
- In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Simmer the Sauce
- Add diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, oregano, and red pepper flakes to the skillet.
- Stir everything together, then reduce the heat to low.
- Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Combine the Dish
- Return the ground beef to the skillet, mixing it into the sauce.
- Add the cooked bow tie pasta and toss until fully coated. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water for a silkier consistency.
6. Finish with Cheese
- Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
7. Garnish and Serve
- Plate the pasta and sprinkle each serving with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting meal.
Cooking Tips
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Select Quality Ingredients | Use fresh onions, garlic, and high-quality marinara for the best flavor. |
| Balance Acid and Sweetness | If the sauce tastes too tangy, add 1 tsp of sugar to balance flavors. |
| Pasta Water Secret | Always reserve pasta water! The starchiness helps bind the sauce and pasta. |
| Make it Customizable | Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to boost nutrients and create your own variation of Bow Tie Pasta Recipes With Ground Beef. |
No matter how you choose to enhance it, this bow tie pasta and ground beef dish is bound to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
To create our irresistible bow tie pasta recipe with ground beef, we’ll need to gather some simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in crafting the rich, customizable, and comforting dish we all love.
Pasta and Protein
- 12 oz bow tie pasta (farfalle) – Cooked al dente for the perfect texture.
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio) – Adds a savory, hearty base.
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium yellow onion – Finely diced for sweetness.
- 3 cloves garlic – Minced for a robust aroma.
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh) – Adds a hint of tang and texture.
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 cups marinara sauce – Choose a high-quality or homemade variety for depth of flavor.
- ½ cup beef or chicken broth – Helps thin and enhance the sauce.
Seasonings
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – A blend of basil, oregano, and thyme.
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – For a touch of heat.
- Salt and black pepper – To taste.
Garnishes
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese – Grated, for that nutty, salty finish.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley – Chopped for a burst of freshness.
Additional
- 1 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing aromatics.
- Water – For boiling pasta, salted generously.
Here’s a summary table for quick reference:
| Category | Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Pasta and Protein | Bow tie pasta, Ground beef | 12 oz, 1 lb |
| Vegetables/Aromatics | Yellow onion, Garlic, Diced tomatoes | 1 medium, 3 cloves, 1 cup |
| Sauce | Marinara sauce, Beef/Chicken broth | 2 cups, ½ cup |
| Seasonings | Italian seasoning, Red pepper flakes, Salt, Pepper | 1 tsp, ½ tsp, To taste |
| Garnishes | Parmesan cheese, Fresh parsley | ½ cup, 2 tbsp |
| Additional | Olive oil, Water | 1 tbsp, As needed |
With these key ingredients, we’re set to build a rich, satisfying plate of bow tie pasta with ground beef.
Tools And Equipment
Preparing a perfect bow tie pasta recipe with ground beef requires having the right tools and equipment on hand. Each piece plays a critical role in ensuring a seamless cooking experience, from boiling the pasta to creating the savory sauce. Below, we’ve listed the essential tools you’ll need for this recipe:
Essentials for Cooking and Prep:
- Large pot: For boiling the bow tie pasta to perfection.
- Colander or strainer: To drain the pasta quickly without overcooking it.
- Large skillet or sauté pan: For browning the ground beef and combining all components.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Helps with stirring and ensuring the meat doesn’t stick to the pan.
- Sharp knife and cutting board: For chopping aromatics, like onions and garlic, with precision.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurately measuring diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, seasonings, and garnishes.
Secondary Tools That Make Cooking Easier:
- Grater: For shredding fresh Parmesan cheese to top the dish.
- Mixing bowl: If you need to combine seasonings or prepare garnishes beforehand.
- Tongs or pasta server: For serving the bow tie pasta without breaking its delicate shape.
- Ladle: Perfect for scooping and layering the rich sauce onto the cooked farfalle.
Optional Additions:
While not mandatory, these tools can elevate your cooking:
- Microplane: For finely grating cheese or zesting lemon for a refreshing garnish.
- Garlic press: An easy way to mince garlic quickly and evenly.
- Cast-iron skillet: For achieving a deep, caramelized flavor when browning the beef.
Tools At A Glance:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large pot | Boiling bow tie pasta evenly and thoroughly |
| Colander or strainer | Draining pasta without overcooking |
| Skillet/saute pan | Sautéing ground beef and combining ingredients |
| Knife and cutting board | Chopping onions, garlic, and other aromatics |
| Measuring cups/spoons | Ensuring the recipe’s precise balance of ingredients |
| Wooden spoon/spatula | Stirring sauce and preventing sticking during cooking |
| Grater | Shredding Parmesan cheese for a fresh garnish |
| Optional tools | Microplane, garlic press, cast-iron skillet for elevated texture/flavor |
While the tools may seem basic, each item ensures efficiency in transforming a few simple ingredients into a rich, hearty dinner. So, gather these essentials, and you’ll be set for a hassle-free cooking process.
Directions
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of crafting this hearty bow tie pasta recipe with ground beef. Follow these simple instructions to create a flavorful, satisfying meal.
Prep
- Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt for flavor, then cook 12 oz of bow tie pasta according to the package instructions (approximately 10-12 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
- Chop the aromatics: Finely dice 1 medium yellow onion and mince 2 garlic cloves. Keep them prepared for sautéing.
- Prepare seasoning mix: Measure 1 tsp Italian seasoning, ½ tsp paprika, ½ tsp onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste, combining them in a small bowl for easy use later.
Cook
- Brown the ground beef: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 lb ground beef to the skillet and stir occasionally, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Once browned and fully cooked (internal temperature of 160°F), remove any excess grease with a spoon or carefully drain.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the sauces and tomatoes: Pour in 1 cup marinara sauce, 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, and the prepared seasoning mix. Stir until thoroughly combined.
- Simmer the sauce: Reduce heat to low-medium and allow the sauce to simmer for 5-7 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. If the sauce feels too thick, add ¼ cup pasta water for a silkier consistency.
Assemble
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained bow tie pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss gently to coat every piece evenly.
- Incorporate garnishes: Sprinkle ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and fold it into the mixture. For added flavor, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve warm: Transfer the pasta to serving bowls or plates. Serve right away with extra Parmesan on the side for those who love it cheesier.
| Cooking Stage | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Pasta Preparation | 10-12 minutes |
| Browning Beef | 5-7 minutes |
| Sautéing Aromatics | 2-3 minutes |
| Simmering Sauce | 5-7 minutes |
| Total (Approx.) | 25-30 minutes |
Enjoy this delicious bow tie pasta with ground beef, perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting gathering with family and friends.
Make-Ahead And Storage Tips
Preparing bow tie pasta recipes with ground beef in advance can simplify weeknight dinners or meal prep sessions. Here’s how we can make ahead and store this hearty dish while keeping its flavors intact:
Make-Ahead Instructions
- Cook Components Separately: For the best texture, we should prepare the pasta and the ground beef sauce in advance but store them separately. This prevents the pasta from becoming soggy while sitting in the sauce.
- Prepare the pasta as per the recipe instructions, then drain and toss it lightly in a teaspoon of olive oil once cooled to prevent sticking.
- Cook and simmer the ground beef sauce. Allow it to cool completely before storing.
- Combine When Ready to Serve: Store the cooled pasta and sauce in airtight containers, then combine and reheat them together when ready to serve. Adding a splash of water or broth during reheating can help maintain the sauce’s consistency.
- Storage Time Guide: Follow this quick chart for storing components correctly:
| Component | Refrigeration | Freezing |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked Pasta | Up to 3 days | Up to 2 months (airtight bag) |
| Ground Beef Sauce | Up to 3-4 days | Up to 3 months (sealed container) |
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store cooled components in separate, airtight containers. Label them with dates for quick reference. If possible, use shallow containers for faster cooling and better freshness.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the pasta and sauce. Use freezer-safe bags or containers to prevent freezer burn. When freezing, press out any excess air from bags to prolong freshness.
- Portion Control: Divide the pasta and sauce into meal-sized portions before freezing to avoid thawing more than needed.
Reheating Instructions
- Stovetop: For the most even heating, reheat the ground beef sauce in a small saucepan, adding a touch of broth or water for moisture. Warm pasta can be tossed directly with the reheated sauce on the stovetop and cooked for 3-4 minutes.
- Microwave: Place pasta and sauce in a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely and microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval for even heating.
- Oven: Combine pasta with sauce in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and reheat at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh Parmesan cheese before serving for a fresh finish.
Pro Tips for Freshness
- Avoid overcooking pasta if freezing, as reheating softens it further.
- Freeze sauce with a layer of plastic wrap touching the surface inside the container to minimize air exposure and preserve flavor.
- Brighten reheated servings with fresh garnishes like herbs or a touch of olive oil for a just-made effect.
With these make-ahead and storage tips, we can enjoy the convenience of prepping this flavorful bow tie pasta with ground beef dish while ensuring it tastes just as delicious when served later.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving bow tie pasta with ground beef, there are countless ways to elevate the experience and impress your family or guests. Whether you’re aiming for a casual dinner or a festive spread, these ideas will help you present this hearty dish in a way that enhances its flavors and appeal. Here’s how we love to serve it:
Plate Presentation
- Serve individual portions: Spoon the pasta into shallow bowls or wide plates, ensuring each serving is evenly coated with sauce.
- Garnish generously: Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil, and a pinch of red chili flakes for a pop of color and a hint of spice.
- Layer toppings: Add a dollop of ricotta cheese or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a creamy, luxurious upgrade.
Perfect Pairings
Pairing this dish with complementary sides can create a full and satisfying meal. Consider the following:
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Garlic Bread | The buttery, garlicky flavor perfectly complements the richness of the sauce. |
| Caesar Salad | Crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and croutons balance the hearty pasta with refreshing crunch. |
| Steamed Vegetables | Lightly steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add a vibrant, wholesome touch. |
| Roasted Vegetables | Caramelized zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes enhance the dish’s savory profile. |
Beverage Pairings
Selecting the right drink elevates the dining experience further:
- Wine: A glass of dry red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully with the hearty sauce.
- Non-Alcoholic: Lemon-infused sparkling water or iced tea makes an excellent choice to cleanse the palate.
Creative Serving Ideas
- Family-Style Serving: Serve the pasta in a large, rustic serving dish at the table. Let everyone help themselves for a cozy, communal vibe.
- Make it a Casserole: Pour the pasta into a baking dish, sprinkle with mozzarella and bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Elegant Plating: Use food rings or molds to stack the pasta neatly on the plate for a more formal presentation.
Pro Tips for Serving
- Warm your plates: Pre-warming the bowls or plates ensures the pasta stays hot longer during mealtime.
- Prepare last-minute garnishes: Add herbs and cheese just before serving to maximize their freshness and flavor impact.
- Provide extra sauce: Serve some sauce on the side to accommodate those who enjoy a saucier meal.
By incorporating these serving suggestions, we can transform our bow tie pasta recipe with ground beef into not just a meal, but a delightful dining experience.
Conclusion
Bow tie pasta with ground beef is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting, versatile dish that fits seamlessly into busy schedules and special occasions alike. With its rich flavors and customizable options, it’s a recipe that’s both practical and indulgent.
Whether you’re preparing it fresh or making it ahead, this dish offers ease without compromising on taste. Pair it with your favorite sides, experiment with garnishes, or simply enjoy it as is. It’s a go-to recipe that never disappoints, bringing warmth and satisfaction to every table.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is bow tie pasta commonly used for?
Bow tie pasta, or farfalle, is known for its ability to hold sauces well due to its unique shape. It is versatile and often used in hearty dishes, salads, and casseroles.
Does ground beef pair well with bow tie pasta?
Yes, ground beef complements bow tie pasta perfectly, creating a hearty, satisfying dish. Their combination works well with various sauces, making it a customizable and crowd-pleasing meal.
What sauce works best with bow tie pasta and ground beef?
Bow tie pasta and ground beef pair well with marinara, tomato-based sauces, creamy Alfredo, or even spicy arrabbiata sauce. The choice depends on your preference.
How long does it take to cook bow tie pasta with ground beef?
The dish takes approximately 25-30 minutes to cook, making it a quick option for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Can I make the dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and ground beef sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers and combine them when reheating for the best texture and flavor.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For freezing, ensure the components are stored separately for up to 2-3 months.
What tools are needed to cook bow tie pasta with ground beef?
Essential tools include a large pot for boiling pasta, a skillet for browning beef, a colander for draining, and measuring cups. Additional items like a grater for cheese are optional but helpful.
What can I serve alongside this dish?
Complement the dish with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or steamed vegetables. A glass of dry red wine or lemon-infused sparkling water makes an excellent beverage pairing.
Can I customize this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables, substitute ground beef with another protein, or experiment with different seasonings and sauce variations to suit your taste.
What are the reheating instructions for this dish?
Reheat on the stovetop with a bit of water or broth for freshness. You can also use a microwave or oven, ensuring the dish is evenly heated before serving.