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Crockpot Bowtie Casserole (Printable Version)

Comforting bowtie casserole with beef, cheese, and tomato sauce. Simple crockpot prep for cozy dinners.

# Ingredients:

→ Main

01 - 1.5 lb ground beef
02 - 1 medium onion, chopped
03 - 1 tsp minced garlic
04 - 1 can (15 oz) stewed tomatoes
05 - 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
06 - 1 tsp Italian seasoning
07 - 1 tsp oregano
08 - Salt and pepper to taste
09 - 10 oz fresh or frozen spinach
10 - 16 oz bowtie pasta

→ Cheese

11 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
12 - 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese

# Steps:

01 - In a skillet over medium heat, sauté ground beef with chopped onion until meat is browned and onion is tender. Drain excess fat.
02 - Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
03 - Transfer beef mixture to crockpot. Add stewed tomatoes and tomato sauce.
04 - Add Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
05 - Cover and cook on low heat for 6 hours.
06 - In the last 30 minutes, stir in Parmesan cheese, half the mozzarella, and spinach.
07 - Stir in cooked bowtie pasta until well mixed.
08 - Sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top, allow to melt with lid open, then serve warm.

# Notes:

01 - You can substitute bowtie pasta with penne, shells, or spaghetti based on availability.
02 - Cheddar or a cheese blend can replace mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
03 - Add vegetables like mushrooms or peppers for extra texture and nutrition.