Crockpot Bowtie Casserole (Printable Recipe)

Hearty crockpot dish with beef, tomatoes, cheese, and pasta for a comforting, hands-off family meal.

# Ingredients You'll Need:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 1 lb ground beef, 80% lean
02 - 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 can (14.5 oz) stewed tomatoes, unsweetened
05 - 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
06 - 1/2 tsp dried oregano
07 - 1 tsp Italian seasoning
08 - 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
09 - 1/4 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
10 - 2 cups fresh spinach or 1 cup thawed frozen spinach, squeezed dry
11 - 3 cups cooked bowtie pasta, al dente
12 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
13 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Cook ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet over medium heat for 10 minutes until browned and softened. Drain excess fat.
02 - Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Do not brown.
03 - Transfer beef mixture to crockpot and spread evenly across the bottom.
04 - Pour stewed tomatoes and tomato sauce over the beef mixture.
05 - Sprinkle oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
06 - Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, allowing flavors to meld.
07 - In the last 30 minutes, stir in Parmesan and half the mozzarella until melted.
08 - Fold in spinach and stir gently until evenly distributed.
09 - Add cooked bowtie pasta and stir to coat evenly in sauce and cheese.
10 - Sprinkle remaining mozzarella over top and let melt before serving warm.

# Extra Tips:

01 - Add pasta just before serving to maintain texture and avoid overcooking.
02 - Grate cheese fresh for better melting and flavor.
03 - Can be made ahead and reheated for convenience.
04 - Pairs well with a green salad or garlic bread.

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