Old-Fashioned Family Favorite
Grandma’s 4-Ingredient Creamy Beef & Bowtie Pasta Bake
A rich, cheesy comfort-food casserole that always disappears first.
My grandma used to make this growing up, and it still steals the show at every family gathering.
The best part? Just four simple ingredients create an incredibly creamy, savory, cheesy dinner
that tastes like it took all day to make.
The best part? Just four simple ingredients create an incredibly creamy, savory, cheesy dinner
that tastes like it took all day to make.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 12 oz (340 g) bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 jar (15 oz / 425 g) Alfredo sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Optional: Fresh parsley, black pepper, garlic powder, or a light sprinkle of paprika for garnish.
Instructions
- Cook the pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta until just al dente,
according to the package directions. Drain well. - Brown the beef:
While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef
and cook until completely browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
Drain any excess grease. - Combine:
Return the beef to the skillet and add the Alfredo sauce. Stir until the beef is
evenly coated and the sauce is hot and creamy. - Add the pasta:
Gently fold the cooked bowtie pasta into the creamy beef mixture until everything
is evenly combined. - Prepare the casserole:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Transfer the pasta mixture into the dish and spread it evenly. - Add the cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. - Bake:
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until bubbling around the edges and the cheese
is melted and beautifully golden. - Rest and serve:
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley
if desired.
Helpful Tips
- Don’t overcook the pasta before baking; al dente works best.
- Drain excess grease from the beef for a smoother casserole.
- For extra browning, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
- Let the casserole rest before cutting or serving.
Serving Ideas
- Serve with a crisp green salad.
- Add steamed broccoli or green beans.
- Pair with warm garlic bread.
- Finish with fresh parsley and cracked black pepper.
Make-Ahead Tip:
Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate.
When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes,
then bake until hot and bubbly.
Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate.
When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes,
then bake until hot and bubbly.
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot.
- For a larger portion, cover with foil and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven.
- Add a small splash of milk before reheating if the pasta has absorbed too much sauce.
Easy Variations
- Extra cheesy: Add cheddar or Parmesan along with the mozzarella.
- Mushroom beef: Stir sautéed mushrooms into the beef mixture.
- Vegetable version: Add spinach, broccoli, or peas.
- Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
