Print

Bowtie Pasta Ziti

Bowtie Pasta Ziti

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Bowtie Pasta Ziti is a comforting and hearty dish that brings a delightful twist to traditional baked pasta. This family-friendly casserole features farfalle pasta enveloped in a rich and savory marinara meat sauce, layered with creamy ricotta and melty mozzarella. Perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, this baked dish is not only satisfying but also easy to prepare. In just under an hour, you can create a delicious meal that everyone will love, ensuring leftovers are a welcome treat the next day.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
  • 1 lb halal ground beef or halal Italian-style beef/turkey sausage
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 24 oz marinara or pasta sauce
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated vegetarian Parmesan-style cheese
  • fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the bowtie pasta in boiling salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, cook the halal ground beef or sausage with diced onion until browned. Stir in minced garlic and cook for one minute. Add marinara sauce and Italian seasoning; simmer for five minutes and season with salt and pepper.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the grated Parmesan until smooth.
  5. Mix most of the meat sauce with the cooked pasta (reserve about one cup of sauce).
  6. Layer half of the pasta mixture into the baking dish, spread the ricotta mixture over it, and sprinkle half of the mozzarella on top.
  7. Add the remaining pasta mixture, spoon reserved meat sauce over everything, then top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
  8. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes; remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until bubbly.
  9. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition