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Crockpot Bowtie Casserole

Crockpot Bowtie Casserole
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A comforting and easy Crockpot Bowtie Casserole combining tender bowtie pasta, savory protein, and creamy, cheesy sauce slow-cooked to perfection. This hands-off dish is perfect for busy schedules, meal prepping, and can be customized with different proteins, veggies, and cheeses for a family favorite warm meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 8 oz uncooked bowtie pasta (regular or gluten-free)
  • 1 lb chicken breast or ground beef (or plant-based alternative)
  • 4 oz cream cheese (preferably whole milk)
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce or diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese

Optional Ingredients

  • 1 cup fresh spinach or diced bell peppers
  • Crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños (for spice)
  • Splash of heavy cream or sour cream (for added creaminess)
  • Fresh herbs like parsley or basil for garnish
  • Toasted breadcrumbs for topping

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Protein: Brown your chosen protein—ground beef, chicken, or meat substitute—in a skillet with diced onions and minced garlic until fully cooked and fragrant.
  2. Mix the Sauce Base: In a bowl, combine cream cheese, tomato sauce or diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Stir well until the cream cheese is softened and the mixture is smooth.
  3. Assemble in the Crockpot: Layer half of the uncooked bowtie pasta at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the cooked protein mixture on top, followed by the sauce. Finish by adding the remaining pasta and optional veggies like spinach or bell peppers.
  4. Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low heat for 3 to 4 hours, stirring halfway through cooking to ensure even distribution and prevent sticking. The pasta will absorb the flavorful sauce and become tender.
  5. Add Cheese and Finish: Once the pasta is fully cooked, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Cover again and cook for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden topping.

Notes

  • Use uncooked pasta to save time and enhance flavor by cooking it directly in the crockpot with the sauce.
  • Stir the casserole halfway through cooking to prevent sticking and achieve even cooking.
  • Do not overfill the crockpot; leave about an inch of space at the top to avoid overflow and uneven cooking.
  • Layer ingredients thoughtfully with pasta on the bottom, protein in the middle, and sauce to ensure the best texture.
  • Opt for whole milk cream cheese for a richer and creamier casserole.

Nutrition

Keywords: Crockpot casserole, bowtie pasta, slow cooker dinner, creamy pasta dish, comfort food, easy family meal, one-pot meal

Find it online: https://recipesbykaeli.com/crockpot-bowtie-casserole/