Name: Quick Beef & Bow Tie Pasta Skillet
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz bow tie pasta (farfalle); 8 oz ground beef (preferably 85% lean); 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup beef broth or water; 1/2 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano); 1/2 tsp salt, plus more to taste; 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice (for acid); 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Quick Beef & Bow Tie Pasta Skillet

TangyPasta8577

This Quick Beef & Bow Tie Pasta Skillet is the perfect answer to a fast, comforting dinner using just a handful of pantry staples. The hearty ground beef and tender pasta are brought together in a savory tomato sauce, while a splash of acid at the end cuts the richness and elevates the flavors—borrowing a pro tip from top chefs. Ready in 30 minutes, this one-pan meal keeps things simple, satisfying, and weeknight-friendly, with balanced salt and acidity for a lively, fresh finish. Enjoy a cozy bowl that’s colorful, comforting, and full of flavor.

Ingredients

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until just al dente, about 10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain pasta.
While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Season with 1/2 tsp salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and Italian herbs. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
Add cooked pasta to the skillet along with a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Toss well to combine and heat through for 1-2 minutes.
Remove from heat and drizzle in red wine vinegar or lemon juice to brighten flavors. Toss again, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.