Crock Pot Bowtie Casserole

Imagine a delicious meal that practically cooks itself, filling your home with irresistible aromas and promising ultimate comfort. This Crock Pot Bowtie Casserole is more than just a recipe – it's a lifesaver for busy families and home cooks.

Packed with hearty ground beef, perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, and a trio of melted cheeses, this slow cooker marvel transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece. Moreover, it's the ultimate solution for those nights when you want a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

Whether you're feeding a hungry crowd or looking for a one-pot meal, this Crock Pot Bowtie Casserole will become your new go-to recipe.

Crock Pot Bowtie Casserole: A Slow-Cooked Pasta Paradise

This isn't just another pasta dish. Instead, it's a delicious journey that combines the convenience of slow cooking with the comforting flavors of classic pasta you know and love.

Get ready to discover a casserole that proves slow cooking is the secret to incredible meals.

Serving Suggestions:

Elevate your Crock Pot Bowtie Casserole with these delightful pairings:

• Garlic bread
• Soft and buttery homemade rolls
• Fresh green salad
• Roasted vegetables
• Steamed broccoli

Pro Tips for Crock Pot Casserole Perfection:

Meat Matters: Choose lean ground beef or Italian sausage for maximum flavor.

Pasta Prep: Cook bowtie pasta al dente before adding to the slow cooker to prevent mushiness.

Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheese blends for unique flavor profiles.

Layering Technique: Add ricotta or cottage cheese for an extra creamy texture.

Make-Ahead Magic: Prep ingredients in advance for easy morning assembly.

Crock Pot Bowtie Casserole Recipe Details:

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 3-4 hours (low setting)
• Servings: 6-8
• Equipment: Slow cooker, skillet, mixing bowl

This cheesy pasta creation brings together the ultimate comfort food elements: tender pasta, savory meat, and melted cheese.

Ingredients:

For the Meat Base:

• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Pasta and Cheese Layer:

• 3 cups cooked bowtie pasta
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese (optional)
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

Directions:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground meat with the diced onion. Cook thoroughly, breaking the meat into small crumbles. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily.
2. Add the minced garlic to the meat mixture and cook for an additional minute. The garlic will release its aromatic flavors, enhancing the overall taste of the casserole.
3. Grease your slow cooker insert to prevent sticking. Transfer the meat and onion mixture to the slow cooker, creating a flavorful base for the casserole.
4. Pour in the marinara sauce and diced tomatoes. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring the meat is evenly coated with sauce.
5. Add the pre-cooked bowtie pasta to the slow cooker. Gently fold the pasta into the sauce, making sure each piece is well-coated and distributed throughout the mixture.
6. If using ricotta or cottage cheese, spread it evenly across the top of the pasta mixture. This creates a creamy layer that adds richness to the casserole.
7. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top, creating a golden, cheesy crust that will melt beautifully during cooking.
8. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, or on high for 1.5 to 2 hours. Look for the cheese to be melted and bubbly, and the casserole to be heated through completely.

Ready to Enjoy!

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley just before serving. The bright green herbs add a pop of color and fresh flavor to the rich casserole.

Storage Solutions:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container
• Refrigerate for up to 4 days
• Reheat gently in the microwave or oven
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating

From busy weeknights to leisurely weekends, this Crock Pot Bowtie Casserole promises to be a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and joy to your table. Each bite tells a story of slow-cooked perfection and delicious simplicity.

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