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Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Sauce

Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Sauce

Easy Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Sauce is a quick, comforting dinner combining perfectly cooked bowtie pasta with a rich, savory ground beef and tomato sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this flavorful and family-friendly meal is ideal for busy weeknights and can be easily customized with veggies or cheese.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)

Meat and Sauce

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Aromatics and Seasonings

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning (oregano, basil blend)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Garnish

  • Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook the Bowtie Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the bowtie pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving some pasta water for later if needed.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant to build the sauce base.
  3. Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook thoroughly, breaking the meat apart with a spatula until fully browned and no longer pink.
  4. Add Tomato Sauce and Seasonings: Stir in tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 8-10 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet with the ground beef sauce. If the sauce seems thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Mix well until the pasta is evenly coated.
  6. Serve and Garnish: Plate the Bowtie Pasta with Ground Beef Sauce and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot for the best experience.

Notes

  • Use lean ground beef to reduce grease and keep the sauce clean and flavorful.
  • Cook pasta al dente to maintain texture and shape with the sauce.
  • Sauté onions and garlic gently to release sweetness without burning.
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency and help it cling to the pasta.
  • Season gradually and taste as you go to balance the flavors properly.

Nutrition

Keywords: bowtie pasta, ground beef sauce, easy dinner, quick meal, Italian pasta, weeknight recipe, family friendly, savory beef sauce