Cheesy Bowtie Casserole with Italian Ground Beef
Let’s gather the ingredients for this delightful casserole:
- 12 oz bowtie farfalle pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: chopped parsley or basil for garnish
Directions
Follow these easy steps to prepare your Cheesy Bowtie Casserole:
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
- Step 3: Season the beef with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Step 4: Pour in the marinara sauce and stir well. Allow it to simmer over low heat for 5-7 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Step 5: Add Velveeta cheese cubes to the skillet and stir gently until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Step 6: Incorporate the cooked bowtie pasta into the sauce, tossing gently to coat all pasta pieces.
- Step 7: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts. For a crispy top, broil for 1-2 minutes.
- Step 8: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired and serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! You can substitute the bowtie pasta with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rotini.
2. Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or add your favorite vegetables in its place.
3. Can I prepare the casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance, cover it, and store it in the fridge until ready to bake.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
5. What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs perfectly with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Your search for a deliciously easy dinner has ended with this Cheesy Bowtie Casserole with Italian Ground Beef. It’s not only comforting but also delightful for the entire family. With this recipe, you can create a satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for more. Enjoy cooking this cheesy delight, and savor every delicious bite!
