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Bow Tie Pasta Recipes With Ground Beef and Tomato Sauce

Bow Tie Pasta Recipes With Ground Beef and Tomato Sauce

These bow tie pasta recipes with ground beef and tomato sauce combine tender farfalle, browned ground beef, and savory marinara for an easy, comforting weeknight dinner. Parmesan and fresh basil finish the dish with extra flavor.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz bow tie pasta farfalle
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small yellow onion finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 24 oz marinara or tomato pasta sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil if needed
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • ½ tsp salt or to taste
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley for serving
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water as needed

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Colander
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Chef’s knife
  • Cutting board
  • Pasta serving spoon or tongs

Method
 

Cook the pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to the package directions until just tender.
  3. Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water.
  4. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Brown the ground beef
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the ground beef and break it into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
  3. Cook until the beef is thoroughly browned and reaches 160°F (71°C).
  4. Drain excess grease if needed.
Cook the aromatics
  1. Add the chopped onion to the skillet.
  2. Cook for about 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
  3. Add the minced garlic.
  4. Cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Make the tomato sauce
  1. Pour the marinara or tomato sauce into the skillet.
  2. Add Italian seasoning, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  3. Stir everything together.
  4. Reduce the heat and simmer for 8–10 minutes.
Combine the pasta and sauce
  1. Add the cooked bow tie pasta to the skillet.
  2. Gently toss until the pasta is evenly coated with the beef and tomato sauce.
  3. Add a small splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
  4. Let everything cook together for another 1–2 minutes.
Finish the dish
  1. Turn off the heat.
  2. Add the grated Parmesan and gently toss.
  3. Taste and adjust the salt or pepper if needed.
  4. Top with fresh basil or parsley.
  5. Serve warm with additional Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • Brown the beef well: Let it develop some color before stirring too much for a deeper flavor.
  • Do not overcook the pasta: Farfalle should remain slightly firm before being finished in the sauce.
  • Save the pasta water: A little starchy water helps loosen a thick sauce while keeping it clingy.
  • Taste before adding salt: Marinara and Parmesan may already contain enough salt.
  • For a creamy version: Stir ¼–½ cup heavy cream into the tomato sauce before adding the pasta.
  • For more vegetables: Add mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the beef sauce.

Storage

  • Let leftovers cool before transferring them to an airtight container.
  • Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
  • Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
  • Add a splash of water or extra tomato sauce if the pasta looks dry.

Summary

These bow tie pasta recipes with ground beef and tomato sauce make a flavorful, filling dinner with simple ingredients and straightforward cooking steps. The browned beef adds richness to the marinara, while farfalle holds onto the sauce for a satisfying bite. It is easy to make this bow tie pasta with ground beef quickly for a weeknight meal or adapt it with vegetables, extra cheese, or a creamy finish.