Go Back

Crock Pot Bowtie Casserole

A cheesy, hearty slow cooker pasta casserole made with seasoned ground beef, tender bowtie pasta, spinach, and rich tomato sauce. This comforting family-style dinner is easy to prepare and packed with classic Italian-inspired flavors.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 7 hours
Total Time 7 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Comfort Food, Family Favorites, Main Course, Pasta Dishes, Slow Cooker
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 510
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 lbs lean ground beef
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 15 oz tomato sauce 1 can
  • 15 oz stewed tomatoes 1 can
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste
  • 10 oz frozen spinach thawed and drained
  • 16 oz bowtie pasta cooked
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese shredded
  • 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded, divided

Method
 

  1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic until beef is fully cooked. Drain excess grease if needed.
  2. Transfer beef mixture to the crock pot. Stir in tomato sauce, stewed tomatoes, oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours.
  4. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, turn crock pot to HIGH. Add spinach, cooked bowtie pasta, parmesan cheese, and 1 cup mozzarella cheese.
  5. Stir well to combine, then sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese over the top.
  6. Cover and cook until cheese is melted. Serve warm.

Notes

Fresh spinach may be substituted for frozen. Add red pepper flakes for a little heat or ricotta for extra creaminess.