Crockpot Bowtie Casserole

This comforting crockpot bowtie casserole is my answer to busy nights when I want something warm and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s rich with savory beef tomatoes Italian herbs and gooey cheese layered around pasta and spinach for a one pot meal that delivers every time. I reach for this dish on cold evenings when the day’s been long and the fridge is nearly empty and it never disappoints.

I first threw this together with pantry staples on a snowy evening and now my kids request it nearly every week. It is one of those dishes that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: adds hearty flavor and rich texture go with 80 percent lean for best balance
• Minced garlic: deepens the savory base use fresh if possible for extra punch
• Onion: adds sweetness and body yellow onions offer the most rounded flavor
• Oregano and Italian seasoning: bring herbaceous warmth dried blends hold up in slow cooking
• Stewed tomatoes: give texture and natural sweetness use canned without added sugar
• Tomato sauce: smooths the base and unifies flavors
• Fresh or frozen spinach: adds color and nutrients thaw and drain if frozen
• Bowtie pasta: gives a fun shape and holds up well cook just until al dente
• Parmesan cheese: brings sharpness and umami grated melts evenly
• Mozzarella cheese: creates a rich melted topping low moisture keeps it from getting greasy
• Salt and pepper: help balance and enhance the whole dish season to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Browning the Beef:

Cook ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet over medium heat for about ten minutes until beef is no longer pink and onions are soft drain any excess fat to prevent greasy sauce

Adding the Garlic:

Stir in minced garlic and cook for about thirty seconds just until it becomes fragrant this quick step builds depth without bitterness

Layering the Crockpot:

Spread the beef and onion mixture evenly across the bottom of the crockpot creating a rich flavorful base

Adding Tomatoes and Sauce:

Pour stewed tomatoes and tomato sauce over the beef mixture spreading them evenly across the surface to ensure even cooking

Seasoning the Base:

Sprinkle in Italian seasoning oregano salt and black pepper gently stir to combine without disturbing the layered texture

Slow Cooking:

Cover and cook on low for six hours letting the flavors deepen and the sauce develop fully

Melting the Cheese:

Thirty minutes before serving stir in Parmesan and half the mozzarella cheese allowing them to melt into the sauce for extra creaminess

Adding Greens:

Add the spinach and gently fold it into the sauce it will wilt quickly and blend beautifully with the other flavors

Finishing with Pasta:

Stir in cooked bowtie pasta making sure each piece is coated in the sauce and cheesy mixture this ensures no dry bites

Topping and Serving:

Sprinkle remaining mozzarella over the top replace the lid and let it melt for a few minutes serve while warm and gooey

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I especially love how the cheese forms golden spots over the pasta when finished my kids always fight for those crispy corners it has become a go to in our weekly rotation

Storage Tips

Let the casserole cool completely before transferring to airtight containers it keeps well in the fridge for up to four days or in the freezer for up to three months reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through for best results

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken to lighten the dish whole wheat or gluten free pasta works just as well add bell peppers mushrooms or zucchini for more color and nutrition

Serving Suggestions

Pair this casserole with a simple green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli also complement it nicely for a more balanced plate

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Cultural Context

Casseroles like this became staples of American family dinners during the mid twentieth century offering warmth efficiency and the ability to stretch ingredients into hearty meals

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, but bowtie pasta holds its shape well during slow cooking. Penne or rotini are good alternatives.

→ When should I add the spinach?

Add fresh or thawed spinach in the last 30 minutes to preserve color and texture without overcooking.

→ What’s the best ground meat for this dish?

80% lean ground beef gives a rich flavor, but ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter option.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Let it cool, then store in the fridge for up to four days or freeze for longer storage.

→ How do I avoid mushy pasta?

Cook the pasta just to al dente and stir it in just before serving to maintain its texture.

→ Is it freezer friendly?

Yes. Cool completely, portion into containers, and freeze. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.