Introduction
Crockpot Cheesy Beef Bowtie Pasta is the ultimate comfort meal—hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce all slow-cooked into one irresistible dish. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a warm, satisfying dinner waiting for you at home.
Origin & Inspiration
While not tied to a single traditional cuisine, this dish blends Italian-American pasta comfort with classic slow-cooker convenience. Recipes like this became popular in modern home kitchens as families sought easy, one-pot meals that deliver big flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients (Serves 6)
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 3 cups uncooked bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- Mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies
- Red pepper flakes for heat
- Parmesan cheese topping
- Spinach stirred in at the end
Tips for Success
✔ Brown the beef first for better flavor and texture
✔ Don’t overcook pasta—add it later if your crockpot runs hot
✔ Stir occasionally if possible to prevent sticking
✔ Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting
Instructions
1. Brown the Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until beef is browned. Drain excess grease. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
2. Load Crockpot
Transfer beef mixture to crockpot. Add broth, tomatoes, seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Cook
Cover and cook:
- Low: 4–5 hours
- High: 2–3 hours
4. Add Pasta & Cheese
Stir in uncooked pasta and cream cheese. Cover and cook 20–30 minutes until pasta is tender.
5. Finish
Stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Description
This dish is creamy, cheesy, savory, and deeply comforting. The bowtie pasta holds the velvety sauce perfectly, while seasoned beef adds rich flavor in every bite.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fat: 26 g
Conclusion
Crockpot Cheesy Beef Bowtie Pasta is an easy, family-friendly meal that combines convenience and comfort in one pot. It’s ideal for weeknights, potlucks, or anytime you want hearty homemade flavor without standing over the stove.
Recommendation
Serve with:
- Garlic bread
- Simple green salad
- Roasted vegetables
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
For a lighter version, use lean ground beef or ground turkey, reduced-fat cheese, and whole-grain pasta. You’ll still enjoy the creamy richness while keeping it a bit more balanced.