Looking for the ultimate comfort food that feels both homey and a little bit special? Let me introduce you to Bowtie Pasta Ziti, a bubbly, cheesy casserole that brings together the satisfying texture of farfalle with classic Italian-American flavors. This dish is the kind you make when you want everyone at the table to feel welcome, full, and completely satisfied. Bowtie Pasta Ziti is hearty, simple to make, and easily adaptable to your tastes—making it a must-share recipe in any kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Bowtie Pasta Ziti comes together with a handful of everyday ingredients—each one playing a starring role in the finished dish. These essentials create a wonderful harmony of flavor, creamy texture, and gorgeous color that makes every bite irresistible.
- Bowtie (farfalle) pasta (12 oz): The unique shape holds onto sauce and cheese, delivering plenty of flavor in every forkful.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds richness and helps soften the onion, creating a perfect flavor base.
- Ground beef or Italian sausage (1 pound): Provides hearty, savory notes; choose whichever suits your craving.
- Small onion, diced (1): Adds sweetness and depth as it cooks down in the oil.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Brings that irresistible Italian aroma and flavor punch.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A simple way to add herbal complexity and aroma.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances flavors throughout the dish.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Lends a hint of gentle heat and brightness.
- Marinara sauce (24 oz): Coats the pasta and fills every bite with comforting tomato flavor.
- Ricotta cheese (1 cup): Creates that creamy, luscious texture everyone craves.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1½ cups): Melts beautifully on top, giving you that classic golden cheese pull.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup): Adds just the right amount of sharp, nutty flavor and a stunning finish.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Sprinkling this on at the end adds a pop of fresh color and a hint of herbiness.
How to Make Bowtie Pasta Ziti
Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add your bowtie pasta. Cook until it’s just al dente—about 1-2 minutes less than the package suggests. This keeps your Bowtie Pasta Ziti from getting mushy in the oven. Drain well and set the pasta aside; a quick toss with a little olive oil can prevent sticking if you like.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent, soaking up all that savory oil. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until you can really smell it—this is where the aroma magic happens!
Step 3: Brown the Meat
To the skillet, add your ground beef or Italian sausage. Use the back of a spoon to break it up as it cooks until it’s nicely browned. Once it’s cooked through, carefully drain any extra fat. You want just enough to flavor the sauce, without making the dish greasy.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
With the meat still in the pan, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Then pour in the marinara sauce, stirring to combine everything well. Let this savory mixture bubble away for about 5 minutes—just enough for all those flavors to become good friends.
Step 5: Mix Pasta, Sauce, and Ricotta
In a big mixing bowl, combine your cooked bowtie pasta, the meat sauce, and dollops of creamy ricotta cheese. Stir gently so everything is evenly coated and creamy, but try not to break the pasta—those adorable farfalle edges are part of the charm!
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spoon in your pasta mixture. Smooth it out, then shower the top with a generous layer of shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and beautifully golden.
Step 7: Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, let your Bowtie Pasta Ziti rest for about 5 minutes—this helps the casserole set up, making it easier to serve. Top with a flurry of chopped parsley if you want a pop of color and fresh flavor.
How to Serve Bowtie Pasta Ziti
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the finishing touches! Scatter plenty of fresh chopped parsley over your Bowtie Pasta Ziti, or try basil for a sweeter herb note. A final sprinkle of extra Parmesan is always welcome. If you love a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes right before serving adds pep and color.
Side Dishes
This ziti pairs beautifully with a simple green salad tossed in vinaigrette—the crispness balances the creamy, cheesy goodness. Garlic bread or warm focaccia are unbeatable for sopping up every bit of sauce. For a veggie boost, roast some broccoli or zucchini to serve alongside.
Creative Ways to Present
You can serve Bowtie Pasta Ziti straight from the baking dish for crowd-pleasing family style, or portion it into individual oven-safe ramekins for a dinner party flair. Leftovers also shine as a lunchbox treat—pack with a small side salad for a tempting midday break. For extra pizzazz, try topping each serving with a fresh basil leaf or a drizzle of herbed olive oil.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Bowtie Pasta Ziti is just as welcome the next day! Simply cover the cooled casserole tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers even more comforting. Cut into squares and reheat for a fast and fabulous meal.
Freezing
If you want to get a head start, assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Wrap the baking dish tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed to ensure it’s piping hot.
Reheating
For best results, reheat Bowtie Pasta Ziti covered in a 350°F oven until warmed through and bubbly—usually about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, just be sure to use a microwave-safe dish and cover to keep things moist.
FAQs
Can I make Bowtie Pasta Ziti meatless?
Absolutely! Swap the ground meat for a plant-based alternative, or bulk up the sauce with sautéed mushrooms and spinach. You’ll get all that cozy, cheesy goodness while keeping the dish vegetarian.
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta, small curd cottage cheese is a great substitute. For a tangier touch, try a blend of cream cheese and a splash of sour cream.
Will gluten-free pasta work in Bowtie Pasta Ziti?
Yes! Use your favorite gluten-free bowtie pasta and keep an eye on the cook time, as some gluten-free varieties soften faster. The rest of the recipe remains just as flavorful and fun.
Can I prep Bowtie Pasta Ziti in advance for a party?
Definitely. Assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Just pop it into the oven before guests arrive and you’ll have a bubbling, stress-free main dish ready in no time.
Is Bowtie Pasta Ziti spicy?
This version is mild and kid-friendly, but you can easily dial up the spice! Add red pepper flakes, use spicy Italian sausage, or offer hot sauce at the table for those who like extra heat.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that’s warm, satisfying, and guaranteed to please a crowd, Bowtie Pasta Ziti is just what you need. Each layer brings heritage comfort and plenty of flavor, with a creamy, cheesy finish that’s impossible to resist. This is the kind of recipe you’ll reach for again and again—so gather your loved ones and dive in!
Print
Bowtie Pasta Ziti Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Bowtie Pasta Ziti recipe is a comforting and cheesy baked pasta dish that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner. Tender bowtie pasta is layered with a flavorful meat sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan. Baked until bubbly and golden, this dish is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
Meat Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 24 oz marinara sauce
Cheese Layers:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish:
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Cook the pasta: Cook the bowtie pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the meat sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft, then stir in garlic. Add the ground beef or sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and marinara sauce. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Assemble the dish: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, meat sauce, and ricotta cheese. Mix well. Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute the meat with ground turkey or use a vegetarian meat alternative.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or stir in some spinach for extra veggies.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *