Name: One-Pan Cheesy Beef & Bowtie Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices); 2 cups beef broth; 1½ cups uncooked bowtie (farfalle) pasta; ½ cup tomato sauce or marinara; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp paprika (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste; 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella, or a mix); Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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This One-Pan Cheesy Beef & Bowtie Pasta is a hearty and flavorful weeknight dinner that I can make quickly and clean up even faster. With tender pasta, savory ground beef, melty cheese, and a rich tomato base, it’s comfort food made simple—all in a single skillet. When I need something satisfying with minimal effort, this dish never lets me down.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe gives me a full, balanced meal in just one pan. It’s quick to prep, loaded with flavor, and super customizable based on what I have in the kitchen. It’s also a hit with everyone at the table—even picky eaters. Whether I’m craving something cheesy, meaty, or cozy, this checks all the boxes. Plus, I only have one pan to wash afterward.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
2 cups beef broth
1½ cups bowtie (farfalle) pasta, uncooked
½ cup tomato sauce or marinara
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp paprika (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella, or a mix)
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Cook the Beef
I start by cooking the ground beef and chopped onion in a large skillet over medium heat for about 6 to 8 minutes, until browned. Then I add minced garlic and cook for another minute. If there’s extra grease, I drain it out.
Add Pasta and Liquids
I stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Then I add the uncooked bowtie pasta and give everything a good stir.
Simmer and Cook
I bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat, and cover the skillet. It cooks for 12 to 15 minutes, with occasional stirring, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Add Cheese
I stir in half the shredded cheese until it melts and becomes creamy. Then I sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top, cover again, and let it melt for another 2 to 3 minutes.
Serve
I garnish with chopped parsley and serve it hot, straight from the skillet.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 to 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

When I want to switch it up, I try these ideas:

Spice it up: I add crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
Cheese swap: Monterey Jack, provolone, or a Mexican blend gives this dish a fun twist.
Make it creamy: A bit of heavy cream or sour cream added at the end makes it extra indulgent.
Add veggies: I stir in baby spinach, peas, or chopped bell peppers in the last few minutes of cooking.

Storage/Reheating

If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it on the stove over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. The microwave works too—I just stir halfway through to heat evenly. I don’t recommend freezing it since the pasta texture changes.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes, I often substitute with penne, rotini, or shells if I don’t have bowtie pasta. I just keep an eye on the cooking time.

What can I use instead of beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles work great if I want to lighten it up or go meatless.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. I’ve made it a day in advance and simply reheated it before serving. The flavors even deepen overnight.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking to the pan?

I stir it occasionally during simmering to keep the pasta from sticking or clumping together.

Is it okay to use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but I prefer shredding my own cheese because it melts more smoothly. Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that can affect texture.

Conclusion

This One-Pan Cheesy Beef & Bowtie Pasta is the ultimate weeknight comfort food—easy to make, easy to clean up, and loaded with flavor. It’s a go-to dish when I want something hearty and homemade without spending all evening in the kitchen. Once I try it, I’ll be adding it to my regular dinner rotation.