One-Pan Cheesy Beef & Bowtie Pasta

This One-Pan Cheesy Beef & Bowtie Pasta is a hearty, satisfying dinner made with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Everything cooks in a single skillet—perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick cleanup and a comforting meal the whole family will love.

• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4–6

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 1/2 cups bowtie (farfalle) pasta, uncooked
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce or marinara
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella, or a mix)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

1. Cook the Beef

• In a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until browned, about 6–8 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
• Drain excess grease if needed.

2. Add Pasta and Liquids

• Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Add the uncooked bowtie pasta and stir to combine.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.

3. Simmer and Cook

• Cover the skillet and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

4. Add Cheese

• Stir in half of the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
• Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and cover again for 2–3 minutes, or until cheese is melted.

5. Serve

• Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
• Serve hot straight from the skillet.

• Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Cheese it differently: Try Monterey Jack, provolone, or a Mexican blend.
• Make it creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving.
• Veg it up: Stir in baby spinach, peas, or bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking.

• Estimated: 480–520 kcal (based on 6 servings and ingredients used)

• Garlic bread or breadsticks
• Simple garden salad with vinaigrette
• Steamed or roasted vegetables (like broccoli or green beans)

• One pan = easy cleanup
• Classic beef and pasta combo
• Ready in under 40 minutes
• Comfort food everyone enjoys
• Budget-friendly, pantry-staple ingredients