Easy Bow Tie Pasta Lasagna

Let’s make Easy Bow Tie Pasta Lasagna! It’s a fun twist on classic lasagna that’s super simple to make. Forget layering flat noodles! We’re using bow tie pasta, also known as farfalle. They make this dish extra delicious and easy to scoop.

This pasta bake is perfect for busy weeknights because it’s much faster than traditional lasagna. Plus, the whole family will love it, even picky eaters! Bow ties hold the yummy sauce and cheese really well.

Using bow tie pasta instead of lasagna noodles makes this dish quicker to assemble. No need to pre-cook the pasta! It bakes right in the sauce. You can even customize it with your favorite ingredients. This Easy Bow Tie Pasta Lasagna is comfort food made easy. Looking for a decadent dessert? Try our Ultimate Cheesecake Brownies.

Why this Easy Bow Tie Pasta Lasagna Is Special

This Easy Bow Tie Pasta Lasagna is special because it’s quick, easy, and adaptable. It’s faster to make than regular lasagna. Kids love the fun bow tie shape. You can easily swap ingredients to make it your own. This recipe is a winner!

 Ingredients You’ll Need 

Let’s gather everything we need for our Easy Bow Tie Pasta Lasagna. We’ll break it down into three parts: the meat sauce, the cheese filling, and the pasta.

 Meat Sauce Ingredients 

* 1 pound ground beef (you can also use ground turkey or Italian sausage!)
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 (28-ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
* 6 ounces tomato paste
* 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Cheese Filling Ingredients

* 15 ounces ricotta cheese
* 15 ounces cottage cheese (optional, but it adds creaminess!)
* 2 large eggs
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
* 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Cottage cheese adds a tangy flavor and extra creamy texture to the filling. If you don’t like it, you can leave it out or use an extra 15 ounces of ricotta.

Pasta and Other Ingredients 

* 1 pound bow tie pasta (farfalle)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking the pasta)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
* Cooking spray or butter, for greasing the baking dish (optional, in place of olive oil).

 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions 

Now that we have our ingredients, let’s start cooking! Follow these simple steps to make a delicious Easy Bow Tie Pasta Lasagna. You might also enjoy our recipe for Crispy Fried Cornbread as a side dish.

 Preparing the Meat Sauce 

First, let’s make the meat sauce. Grab a large pot and brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once the beef is browned, drain off any extra grease.

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until they soften, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld.

Preparing the Cheese Filling 

While the sauce simmers, let’s make the cheese filling. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cottage cheese (if using), eggs, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. You can use a spoon or a hand mixer for this. A smooth filling will spread easily and bake evenly in the lasagna.

Cook the bow tie pasta according to the package directions. It’s important to cook the pasta “al dente,” which means it should be firm to the bite. Don’t overcook it, or it will become mushy in the lasagna. Drain the pasta well.

Assembling the Easy Bow Tie Pasta Lasagna

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray. Now, let’s build our lasagna!

Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the bottom of the dish. This prevents the pasta from sticking. Then, add a layer of cooked bow tie pasta, spreading it evenly. Top the pasta with half of the cheese filling.

Repeat the layers: meat sauce, pasta, and the remaining cheese filling. Finish with a final layer of meat sauce and sprinkle with extra mozzarella cheese, if desired. For a cheesy crust! Make sure the layers are even to ensure even cooking. This also helps prevent a watery lasagna by allowing the pasta to absorb the sauce. For a fun breakfast treat, try our Mini Cinnamon Rolls.

Baking and Serving 

Now that our Easy Bow Tie Pasta Lasagna is assembled, it’s time to bake it to bubbly perfection! For another great meal idea, check out our Ultimate Breakfast Casserole.

 Baking Instructions 

We’ve already preheated the oven to 375°F (190°C). Now, cover the lasagna tightly with aluminum foil. This helps keep the moisture in while it bakes.

Bake for 30 minutes covered. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the lasagna is bubbly and heated through. The cheese should be melted and lightly golden brown. You’ll know it’s done when the sauce is actively bubbling around the edges and the center is hot. Use a food thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Learn more about food safety at Healthline’s Food Safety Guide.

 Serving Suggestions 

Let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This allows it to set up and makes it easier to serve. Cutting into it too soon can result in a messy dish!

Serve your Easy Bow Tie Pasta Lasagna hot. It’s delicious on its own, but even better with sides! A fresh garden salad with Italian dressing adds a refreshing contrast. Buttery garlic bread is perfect for sopping up extra sauce.

For a final touch, garnish with fresh basil or parsley. This adds a pop of color and fresh flavor. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Enjoy! For dessert, consider a No-Bake Chocolate Raspberry Tart.

Tips and Variations 

Let’s explore some tips and variations to make this Easy Bow Tie Pasta Lasagna even better!

 Making Ahead 

Want to save time? You can prepare the meat sauce and cheese filling a day ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to assemble the lasagna, simply cook the pasta and layer everything together.

You can also freeze the lasagna! Assemble it unbaked, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed. Already baked lasagna can also be frozen. Ensure it’s cooled completely before wrapping and freezing for up to 2 months. For tips on freezing food safely, visit Healthline’s Guide to Freezing Food.

 Vegetarian Options 

For a vegetarian Easy Bow Tie Pasta Lasagna, skip the ground beef! Instead, use 1 pound of chopped mushrooms, 1 cup of cooked lentils, or a 10-ounce package of frozen chopped spinach (thawed and squeezed dry). Sauté the mushrooms or lentils with the onions and garlic for a hearty and flavorful sauce. Adjust seasonings to taste.

Adding Vegetables 

Boost the nutrition and flavor by adding vegetables! Dice zucchini, bell peppers, or chop fresh spinach. Add them to the meat sauce while it simmers, or mix them into the cheese filling. Roasted vegetables like eggplant or butternut squash also add delicious depth of flavor.

 Using Different Cheeses 

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses in the filling! Provolone adds a sharp, salty bite. Fontina brings a creamy, nutty flavor. Asiago offers a slightly tangy and sharp taste. You can also use a blend of Italian cheeses for a complex flavor profile. Remember, different cheeses melt differently, so adjust baking time as needed!

Frequently Asked Questions

Let’s answer some common questions about Easy Bow Tie Pasta Lasagna!

 

Conclusion 

Easy Bow Tie Pasta Lasagna is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s quicker and easier than traditional lasagna, yet still delivers all the cheesy, saucy goodness you crave. The bow tie pasta adds a fun twist and makes it extra kid-friendly.

This recipe is incredibly versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients and cheeses! We encourage you to try this simple and satisfying dish. Let us know how it turns out by leaving a comment below! Happy cooking!

 

Print