Description
This hearty bowtie pasta dish, paired with a rich, savory ground beef sauce, is the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for busy weeknights or special family dinners, it combines tender pasta, a flavorful tomato-based sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese for a meal that’s both satisfying and irresistible.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces 340 g bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 pound 450 g ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- One 14-ounce (400 g can of diced tomatoes, packed with their juices for added flavor and richness.)
- 1 can (8 ounces or 227 g tomato sauce)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- ½ cup 120 ml of beef broth or water, providing a savory base or hydration for your dish, enhancing its overall flavor profile.
- 1 cup 100 g shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley (chopped (for garnish, optional))
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Heat a generous pot of water with a sprinkle of salt until it reaches a rolling boil. Once boiling, introduce the bowtie pasta and cook it following the instructions on the package until it reaches the perfect al dente texture. Drain the pasta well and set it aside for later use.
- Prepare the Beef: As the pasta simmers, warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium heat. Introduce the ground beef to the skillet, using a spoon to crumble it as it cooks. Sauté until the meat is nicely browned and fully cooked. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off as needed.
- Cook the Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the cooked beef and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until softened. Incorporate the minced garlic into the skillet and sauté for another minute, stirring often to release its aromatic flavors without letting it burn.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes along with their juices, followed by the tomato sauce and tomato paste, allowing them to blend into the skillet for a rich, flavorful mixture. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef broth or water, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss to coat the pasta evenly. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, allowing it to melt into the dish.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the hearty, savory flavors.
Notes
- For added nutrition, incorporate sautéed vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers into the sauce.
- Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American