Easy Beef and Bowtie Pasta: Delicious Comfort Food!

Alright, come on in, grab a seat at the island, and let’s talk about one of my absolute favorite comfort foods: Beef and Bowtie Pasta. I can almost smell it now, can’t you? The savory aroma of browned ground beef mingling with a rich tomato sauce, all clinging to those adorable little bowtie pasta shapes. Honestly, just thinking about it makes my mouth water!

This recipe…oh, it has a story. See, when I first started cooking, I was TERRIBLE at sauces. Everything was either bland or…well, let’s just say my husband, bless his heart, always had a smile and a glass of water ready. But I was determined to master a good, hearty Beef and Bowtie Pasta, just like my Nonna used to make. Her sauce was legendary! So, I experimented, I failed, I tasted (and sometimes tossed), and eventually, I landed on this version. It’s become a true family favorite, and I’m so excited to share it with you.

What I love most about this Beef and Bowtie Pasta is how adaptable it is. You can throw in extra veggies, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey if you’re feeling a little lighter, or even add a splash of red wine to the sauce for a more robust flavor. It’s also incredibly budget-friendly, which is a huge win in my book. Life is busy, especially with little ones running around, and this Beef and Bowtie Pasta is the perfect weeknight meal because it comes together quickly and easily. I mean, who doesn’t love a one-pot wonder, right? It also allows me some wiggle room to catch up with my followers in my Facebook group.

My cooking philosophy is all about creating delicious, nourishing meals that bring people together. It’s about taking simple ingredients and transforming them into something special, something that makes you feel good from the inside out. This Beef and Bowtie Pasta recipe embodies that perfectly. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking! Trust me, you’re going to love it.

Alright, let’s get organized. Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this amazing Beef and Bowtie Pasta. I’ve included my preferred brands and some tips that I’ve learned along the way.

• 1 pound ground beef: I always use lean ground beef (90/10) for my Beef and Bowtie Pasta. It’s less greasy, and I don’t have to worry about draining off as much fat.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to. It adds a lovely flavor.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Yellow or white onion works great.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must!
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes: I prefer crushed tomatoes over tomato sauce for a chunkier texture in my Beef and Bowtie Pasta.
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce: This adds a smooth base to the sauce.
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato paste: This is what gives the sauce that rich, concentrated flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a classic Italian touch.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: Another essential herb.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is best!
• 1 cup beef broth: Adds depth of flavor. Chicken broth works in a pinch.
• 1 pound bowtie pasta (farfalle): Of course! You can use other pasta shapes, but bowties are just so darn cute! For more ideas on beef and pasta combinations, check out these Ground beef pasta options.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: For serving.

When making this simple Beef and Bowtie Pasta, you can usually find everything at your local grocery store. I often stock up on canned tomatoes when they’re on sale. Here’s a Beef and Bowtie Pasta trick I learned from my mom: add a pinch of sugar to the sauce to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. It works like a charm!

For a quick shortcut, you can use pre-minced garlic. It saves time, especially on busy weeknights. As for storing leftover ingredients, transfer the crushed tomatoes to an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll keep for a few days. The tomato paste can be frozen in small portions for later use. This will help minimize waste and help keep the budget on track.

Alright, friend, let’s get cooking! I promise, this Beef and Bowtie Pasta is easier than it looks. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious, comforting meal in no time.

1. Brown the beef: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. I learned the hard way with Beef and Bowtie Pasta that not draining the grease makes the sauce too oily.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Your Beef and Bowtie Pasta should smell amazing already! While the beef is cooking, I often chop the onion and garlic to save time.
3. Add the sauce ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer. Don’t worry if your Beef and Bowtie Pasta sauce looks a little watery at this point. It will thicken as it simmers.
4. Simmer, simmer, simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. This is the perfect time to set the table, make a salad, or just relax for a bit. In my kitchen, Beef and Bowtie Pasta usually simmers for about 45 minutes.
5. Cook the pasta: Stir in the beef broth and bring the sauce back to a simmer. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions, usually around 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
6. Serve and enjoy: Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese. I love to pair this Italian beef bowtie pasta with a simple side salad and some crusty bread for dipping in the sauce.

Here’s a little tip: add a bay leaf to the sauce while it’s simmering for an extra layer of flavor. Just remember to remove it before serving! If you’re looking for an even faster version, you can find tips at Instant Pot Beef and Bowtie Pasta. And remember, cooking should be fun, so don’t stress if things don’t go perfectly. Just keep tasting and adjusting until it’s just right for you. This Beef farfalle recipe will be a winner in the end!

Okay, so the Beef and Bowtie Pasta is cooked to perfection, the house smells amazing, and everyone’s gathered around the table. Now, how do we make it even more special?

My family loves this Beef and Bowtie Pasta when I serve it with a big green salad with a simple vinaigrette. The fresh, crisp lettuce is a nice contrast to the rich, hearty pasta. I also like to serve it with some warm, crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce. Honestly, the bread is almost as important as the pasta itself!

This Beef and Bowtie Pasta is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a casual get-together with friends, or even a potluck. It’s always a crowd-pleaser! For presentation, I like to sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese and some fresh parsley on top. It makes it look extra fancy, even though it’s super easy to do.

If you have extra Beef and Bowtie Pasta, it’s even better the next day! The flavors have had time to meld together even more. I often pack it for lunch or reheat it for a quick and easy dinner. You can also freeze individual portions for a convenient meal on a busy night.

For a seasonal variation, I sometimes add roasted vegetables to the sauce. In the fall, I love adding roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes. In the summer, zucchini and bell peppers are a great addition. It’s a delicious way to sneak in some extra veggies! Friends always ask for this Beef and Bowtie Pasta recipe whenever I make it for them. It is always a hit! And there’s something so special about sharing a meal with loved ones, especially when it’s a dish that brings back so many memories for me. If you love this classic Beef and Bowtie Pasta, you’ll also enjoy this Creamy Pasta Soup.

Okay, let’s tackle some common questions I get about my Beef and Bowtie Pasta recipe. I’ve made my share of mistakes, so I’m happy to share my hard-earned wisdom!

Q: Can I use a different type of ground meat?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey or ground chicken are great substitutes for ground beef. Just make sure to drain off any excess fat after browning. I’ve even made it with Italian sausage before, and it was delicious!

Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Definitely! You can substitute the ground beef with lentils or crumbled plant-based meat alternatives. I would also recommend adding some extra vegetables, like mushrooms or bell peppers, to make it more filling.

Q: My sauce is too acidic. What can I do?
A: You know what I do when my Beef and Bowtie Pasta is too acidic? Add a pinch of sugar or a tablespoon of butter to the sauce. It will help balance the acidity and make it taste smoother.

Q: Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Vegetables are a great addition to Beef and Bowtie Pasta. I love adding diced carrots, celery, and bell peppers to the sauce while it’s simmering. You can also add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.

Q: How can I make this recipe spicier?
A: If you like a little heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or using a spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef. You can also add a diced jalapeño pepper to the sauce while it’s simmering.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a great make-ahead meal. You can prepare the sauce a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the pasta and combine it with the sauce.

Q: My pasta is sticking together. What am I doing wrong?
A: Make sure you’re using enough water when cooking the pasta and that you’re stirring it occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. You can also add a tablespoon of olive oil to the cooking water. When it comes to the perfect beef pasta recipes, this one is a winner! And another tip: I have found great advice on Reddit about creamy pasta here.

This Beef and Bowtie Pasta recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s a dish that I’ve been making for my family for years. It’s a simple, comforting meal that always brings a smile to their faces. And honestly, that’s what cooking is all about for me – creating moments of joy and connection through food.

My Beef and Bowtie Pasta Pro Tips:

• Don’t overcook the pasta! Nobody likes mushy pasta. Cook it al dente for the best texture.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go. Every palate is different, so don’t be afraid to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your taste.
• Let the sauce simmer for as long as possible. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.

Here are a few variations of this creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta that I’ve tried with my family:

• Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta: Add a splash of heavy cream or sour cream to the sauce at the end for a richer, creamier flavor. This is my daughter’s favorite version.
• Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta: Stir in some shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese to the sauce at the end for a cheesy, gooey delight. My son loves this one!
• Spicy Beef and Bowtie Pasta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño pepper to the sauce for a little kick.

I really hope you try this easy Beef and Bowtie Pasta recipe and make it your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors. The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process! The key is to take this basic Italian beef bowtie pasta and have fun with it!

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, I believe that anyone can make delicious, nourishing meals for their loved ones. So, go ahead, grab your apron, and get cooking! I know you’re going to create something amazing. And remember, this Beef and Bowtie Pasta is a classic that can be passed down for generations. Enjoy! I also have a Vegetable Beef Soup recipe you may enjoy.