Description
A creamy and cheesy pasta bake that transforms pantry staples into a comforting dish reminiscent of lasagna, all in one pan.
Ingredients
- 1 pound bow-tie (farfalle) pasta
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 24 ounces pasta sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt for the pasta water
- Optional: black pepper, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Boil salted water and cook the bow-tie pasta until al dente, about 9–11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat for 6–8 minutes, then drain excess fat.
- Transfer the hot beef to a bowl, add cream cheese and milk, stirring until smooth, then mix in the pasta sauce.
- Fold in the drained pasta until evenly coated.
- Pour the mixture into the baking dish and top with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 10–15 minutes until cheese is bubbling, and optionally broil for 1–2 minutes for a browned top.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For vegetarian options, replace beef with cooked lentils or plant-based substitutes. Can be made ahead and refrigerated.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian