1. Can I make bow tie pasta lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pasta mixture and assemble it in the baking dish a day ahead. Cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. When ready to eat, bake as directed, adding an extra 5–10 minutes if baking straight from the fridge.

2. What can I use instead of ground beef?

You can easily substitute ground turkey, ground chicken, or even plant-based meat crumbles to suit your dietary preferences while still enjoying rich, hearty flavors.

3. Can I freeze bow tie pasta lasagna?

Absolutely. Allow the dish to cool completely, then portion it into airtight freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot throughout.

4. What is the best pasta sauce to use for this recipe?

Any pasta sauce you love will work, whether it’s homemade or store-bought. A classic marinara, a spicy arrabbiata, or even a creamy tomato sauce can each bring a unique twist to the dish.

Easy Bow Tie Pasta Lasagna

Name: Easy Bow Tie Pasta Lasagna
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound bow tie pasta; 8 ounces cream cheese; 2 tablespoons milk; 1/2 pound ground beef; 24 ounces pasta sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Description

Enjoy the classic flavors of lasagna in a quick, beginner-friendly dish with this easy bow tie pasta lasagna recipe, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound bow tie pasta
8 ounces cream cheese
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 pound ground beef
24 ounces pasta sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the bow tie pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, then drain the excess grease.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, cream cheese (cut into chunks), milk, and pasta sauce. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and mixed.
Add the cooked pasta to the beef mixture and mix well to coat evenly.
Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and pour the pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta.
Bake for 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot.

Notes

If pasta finishes early, toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Microwave the meat mixture slightly if cream cheese is difficult to blend.
Tent the dish with foil if cheese browns too quickly.
Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for beef.
Add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 422
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 648mg
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 49g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 19g
Cholesterol: 61mg