Ham and cheese bowties are a delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of ham and cheese with the comforting texture of pasta. This recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for a family-friendly meal. The bowtie pasta adds a fun twist to the dish, making it visually appealing and enjoyable for both kids and adults. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
Ingredients for Ham and Cheese Bowties:
- 1 pound bowtie pasta
- 2 cups diced ham
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
How to Make Ham and Cheese Bowties:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to make a roux.
- Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly, until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
- Stir in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Add the diced ham, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is well combined.
- Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the cheese sauce and toss to coat.
- Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top of the pasta.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
About the Main Ingredients:
- Bowtie Pasta: Also known as farfalle, bowtie pasta is a versatile shape that holds sauces well. Its unique shape adds a playful element to the dish.
- Ham: Diced ham adds a savory and slightly salty flavor to the dish. It pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese sauce and adds protein to the meal.
- Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar cheese is known for its sharp flavor and melts beautifully, making it ideal for cheese sauces.
- Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan cheese adds a nutty and salty flavor to the dish. It also helps thicken the sauce and adds a rich umami taste.
Enjoy your delicious ham and cheese bowties!
