Baked Bowties is an easy and delicious dish that you’ll love if you’re searching for a comforting crowd-pleaser. The bowties in this baked pasta recipe make it fun and unique.

Plus, the combination of creamy cheese and tangy tomato makes it incredibly flavorful.

Related Article Today’s special: oven-baked farfalle

Ingredients

• 16 oz. farfalle pasta (bowtie)
• 32 oz. tomato sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the farfalle pasta according to the package directions until it is al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, mix together the tomato sauce, garlic, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. In another bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Spoon 1/4 cup of the tomato sauce mixture into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Add half of the cooked pasta to the dish and spread it out evenly.
7. Add half of the ricotta cheese mixture and spread it out evenly.
8. Sprinkle 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese over the top.
9. Repeat layers with the remaining pasta, ricotta cheese mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
10. Finish by pouring the remaining tomato sauce mixture over the top of the pasta and cheese.
11. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
12. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
13. Let cool for a few minutes, then serve and enjoy!

Variations

One of the great things about this dish is that it’s so easy to modify to suit your personal taste. You can add meat to make it heartier, or add in vegetables to make it healthier. Here are some ideas for variations:.

• Ground beef or sausage: Brown 1/2 pound of ground beef or sausage and mix it into the tomato sauce mixture.
• Vegetables: Add some vegetables for a healthier option. Spinach, zucchini, and bell peppers work well with this recipe.
• Pesto: Mix in some pesto to the ricotta cheese mixture for added flavor.
• Hot sauce: For a spicy kick, add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the tomato sauce mixture.

Conclusion

Baked Bowties is a perfect dinner option for busy weeknights when you don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. It’s easy, delicious, and kid-friendly. Plus, it’s easy to modify to your personal taste. Give it a try and see how you like it!.