The aroma of melting cheese and savory beef wafts through the kitchen as this decadent dish bakes to perfection. Bow tie pasta lasagna is a delightful twist on traditional lasagna, requiring just about an hour from start to finish. Its creamy texture and hearty ingredients create a comforting meal that brings everyone to the table.
This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep or a quick reheat on busy nights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The unique shape of bow tie pasta adds fun and texture.
- Cream cheese creates a rich, creamy sauce that binds the ingredients.
- Baking melds the flavors together, making every bite irresistible.
- It’s a one-dish meal that simplifies cleanup while feeding a crowd.
What You’ll Need
Gather your ingredients to get started on this delicious meal.
For the Pasta
- 1 pound bowtie pasta
For the Sauce
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 24 ounces pasta sauce
For the Meat
- 1/2 pound ground beef
For Topping
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
Substitutions can vary based on preference.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Cream cheese: sour cream
- Ground beef: ground turkey or chicken
- Mozzarella: cheddar or a cheese blend
How to Make It
Here’s how to prepare your delicious bow tie pasta lasagna.
1. Preheat
Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking.
2. Boil Pasta
Boil water. In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil, then add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, as per package instructions.
3. Cook Ground Beef
Cook beef. While the pasta boils, heat a medium-sized skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned.
4. Drain Beef
Drain grease. Carefully drain the excess grease from the skillet to ensure your dish isn’t too greasy.
5. Combine Ingredients
Mix ingredients. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and return it to the pot. In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, cream cheese, milk, and pasta sauce. Mix thoroughly until the cream cheese is evenly blended.
6. Add Pasta
Incorporate pasta. Gently add the cooked pasta into the ground beef mixture, ensuring every piece is coated in the creamy sauce.
7. Prepare to Bake
Transfer to dish. Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and pour the pasta mixture into it, spreading it evenly.
8. Add Cheese
Sprinkle cheese. Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta mixture.
9. Bake
Bake the dish. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
How to Store It
Fridge: store for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, due to pasta texture.
Reheat: microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
Tips for Best Results
- Cook the pasta slightly under to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for a richer flavor.
- Don’t skip draining the ground beef to keep it light.
- Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh garden salad and garlic bread.
- Serve as a hearty main course for a family gathering.
- Offer alongside a glass of red wine for a cozy dinner.
