Bow Tie Pasta Lasagna
This Bow Tie Pasta Lasagna combines all the cheesy, comforting flavors of classic lasagna with the ease of a one-pan pasta bake! Made with tender bow tie pasta, rich meat sauce, and melted cheese, it’s a cozy, family-friendly dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
- For the Pasta Base:
- 12 oz bow tie farfalle pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Pinch of salt
- For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef turkey, or Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 jar 24 oz marinara sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Cheese Mixture:
- 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan divided
- 1 egg optional, helps bind
- Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup spinach mushrooms, or bell peppers
- Red pepper flakes for heat
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook bow tie pasta until al dente, then drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Add ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Mix the Cheese Filling:
- In a bowl, combine ricotta, half the mozzarella, half the Parmesan, and the egg (if using). Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Combine and Assemble:
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and stir to coat evenly. Fold in the cheese mixture until well combined. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Bake and Serve:
- Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with basil or parsley.
Notes
- Do not overcook the pasta — it will continue cooking in the oven.
- For a lighter version, use lean meat and whole-grain or chickpea pasta.
- Skip the baking step for a quick stovetop version.
- This recipe reheats perfectly for meal prep or leftovers.