Crockpot Bowtie Casserole

This slow-cooked bowtie casserole brings comfort and flavor together in one pot and makes weeknight dinners effortless. With tender pasta, hearty beef and gooey melted cheese layered into a rich tomato base, it is a dish that practically cooks itself while you go about your day.

I made this one winter evening when I had barely anything in the fridge and needed something warm and filling. It quickly became one of our go to dishes for busy days.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: adds hearty flavor and rich texture use 80 percent lean for best results
• Minced garlic: enhances the savory depth fresh minced gives more punch
• Onion: brings sweetness and body yellow onions work best here
• Oregano and Italian seasoning: round out the flavor profile dried herbs hold up well in slow cooking
• Stewed tomatoes: contribute texture and natural sweetness choose canned tomatoes without added sugar
• Tomato sauce: creates a smooth rich base for the casserole
• Fresh or frozen spinach: adds nutrients and color thaw frozen spinach and squeeze excess moisture
• Bowtie pasta: holds its shape well and adds visual appeal cook just to al dente
• Parmesan cheese: adds sharpness and umami use grated for even melting
• Mozzarella cheese: creates that irresistible melted topping choose low moisture for less greasiness
• Salt and pepper: to balance and enhance all the ingredients season to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Browning the Beef:

In a skillet over medium heat cook the ground beef and chopped onion for about ten minutes until the beef is browned and the onion is soft then drain off any excess fat

Adding the Garlic:

Add minced garlic to the pan and stir continuously for about thirty seconds just until fragrant but not browned

Layering the Crockpot:

Transfer the beef mixture to the bottom of your crockpot spreading it out evenly to form the base

Adding Tomatoes and Sauce:

Pour the stewed tomatoes over the meat mixture then add the tomato sauce covering evenly

Seasoning the Base:

Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and oregano add a pinch of salt and a few grinds of black pepper then stir everything together gently to blend flavors

Slow Cooking:

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for six hours letting the flavors meld and the sauce develop

Melting the Cheese:

In the last thirty minutes of cook time stir in grated Parmesan and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese

Adding Greens:

Add spinach to the crockpot folding it gently into the hot sauce until evenly distributed

Finishing with Pasta:

Stir in cooked bowtie pasta making sure it is fully coated with sauce and cheese

Topping and Serving:

Remove the lid sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top and allow it to melt before serving warm

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I especially love how the mozzarella melts into little golden pockets over the pasta. My kids always fight for the corners where the cheese gets slightly crispy.

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool completely then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. For longer storage portion into freezer safe containers and freeze for up to three months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot throughout.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to reduce fat. You can also use whole wheat or gluten free pasta if needed. Add vegetables like bell peppers mushrooms or zucchini for more texture and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and warm garlic bread. It also works well alongside roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli for a more balanced meal.

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Cultural Context

Casseroles like this reflect the comforting simplicity of American home cooking. They became especially popular in the mid twentieth century as families looked for efficient filling meals that could be made in one dish.

Recipe FAQs

→ Why is this casserole perfect for weeknights?

It's easy to prepare—just layer ingredients in the crockpot and let it cook while you go about your day.

→ What type of pasta can I use besides bowtie?

Shells, penne, or spaghetti all work well and absorb the sauce beautifully.

→ Can I make this on the stovetop?

Yes, cook the pasta and meat mixture separately, then bake it all together in a casserole dish.

→ What cheese options work best?

Mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan are all great. You can also mix cheeses for a richer flavor.

→ How can I make this healthier?

Try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, lean ground turkey, or omit cheese for a lighter version.

→ Can I include vegetables?

Absolutely—mushrooms, carrots, peppers, corn, or fresh spinach make great additions.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Garlic bread, cheese bread, or a fresh dinner salad complement this casserole perfectly.