Bowtie Pasta Ziti is a delightful twist on traditional baked ziti, using bowtie-shaped pasta for a fun and unique texture. It’s loaded with a rich tomato sauce, creamy cheeses, and savory seasonings, making it the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any cozy night in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The bowtie pasta adds a playful and sophisticated touch to the classic ziti dish.
It’s incredibly versatile—you can add your favorite proteins, vegetables, or seasonings.
This recipe is easy to make, even on busy weeknights.
It’s baked to golden, bubbly perfection with a deliciously cheesy top layer.
It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love, from kids to adults.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Bowtie pasta
Marinara sauce or your favorite pasta sauce
Ricotta cheese
Mozzarella cheese
Parmesan cheese
Ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
Garlic, minced
Onion, chopped
Olive oil
Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
Cook the bowtie pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant.
If using ground beef or sausage, add it to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Pour in the sauce mixture and stir until well combined.
Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe makes approximately 6-8 servings.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for a healthier twist.
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef or sausage.
Substitute marinara sauce with Alfredo sauce for a creamy variation.
Mix in red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Try using a mix of cheeses like provolone or gouda for a unique flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer: Freeze the baked pasta in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute bowtie pasta with penne, rigatoni, or any pasta of your choice. Just make sure to cook it al dente.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Omit the meat and add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just increase the baking time by about 10 minutes.

What can I serve with Bowtie Pasta Ziti?

This dish pairs well with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Of course! Use gluten-free pasta and check that your marinara sauce and other ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Bowtie Pasta Ziti is the perfect blend of comfort and creativity. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s packed with flavor and guaranteed to impress your family or guests. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy every cheesy, saucy bite!

Bowtie Pasta Ziti

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Bowtie Pasta Ziti is a unique take on traditional baked ziti, featuring bowtie pasta paired with a rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Perfectly baked to golden, bubbly perfection, this dish is a crowd-pleasing comfort food ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or family gatherings.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the bowtie pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
If using ground beef or sausage, cook it in the skillet until browned. Drain excess fat.
Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and simmer for 5-10 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Add the sauce mixture and stir until combined.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition.
Swap ground beef or sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
Substitute marinara sauce with Alfredo sauce for a creamy variation.
Mix in red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.