Ham and Cheese Bowties
This is like homemade macaroni and cheese but with the fun bow tie pasta and hearty ham. While this makes perfect use of leftover ham, there usually arent any leftovers when I serve this My family gobbles it right up.
This is like homemade macaroni and cheese but with the fun bow tie pasta and hearty ham. While this makes perfect use of leftover ham, there usually arent any leftovers when I serve this My family gobbles it right up.
- Carbohydrate 29.9870194399992 g
- Cholesterol 61.9202159070101 mg
- Fat 12.2759683388992 g
- Fiber 0.199722223632288 g
- Protein 11.7327523319302 g
- Saturated Fat 7.06692523977116 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (155g)
- Sodium 374.38135542475 mg
- Sugar 29.7872972163669 g
- Trans Fat 1.03498124811453 g
- Calories 277 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Saute garlic 30 seconds. Whisk in flour, salt and pepper. Cook and stir until smooth.
- Pour in milk, a little at a time, stirring constantly. Bring to a boil for 1 minute.
- Stir in mustard and Colby. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until cheese is melted.
- Remove from heat and stir in pasta and ham.
- Pour into a 2 quart baking dish. Sprinkle with Parmesan.
- Bake 20 to 25 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
Ham and Cheese Bowties: A Family Favorite
As a busy mom, I'm always on the lookout for quick, easy, and delicious meals that the whole family will enjoy. This Ham and Cheese Bowties recipe has become a staple in our house, and for good reason. It's comforting, cheesy, and satisfying – everything a family dinner should be. The bow tie pasta adds a fun twist to classic macaroni and cheese, and the addition of ham brings a hearty protein punch. It's so simple to make, even on a weeknight when time is tight.
I love how versatile this dish is. It's perfect for using up leftover ham, which means less food waste and more delicious meals. But even if you don't have leftover ham, it's worth buying a package just to make this recipe! The combination of creamy cheese sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and savory ham is irresistible. My kids practically inhale it – there's rarely any leftover for me to enjoy later (which is fine, because I can always make another batch!).
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It doesn't require any fancy ingredients or complicated techniques. Everything comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The cheese sauce is rich and creamy, the pasta is perfectly cooked, and the ham adds a delicious salty flavor that complements the cheese beautifully. The slight crispiness on top from baking it in the oven adds another layer of texture and flavor that everyone seems to love.
I often find myself making this dish for family gatherings and potlucks too. It travels well, and it's always a crowd-pleaser. The vibrant colors of the bow tie pasta and the golden-brown topping make it visually appealing, which is always a bonus. It's the kind of dish that brings people together, sparking conversations and creating lasting memories. I even have friends who request it specifically when I offer to bring a dish to their events!
This Ham and Cheese Bowties recipe is more than just a meal; it's a source of comfort, joy, and family connection. It's a testament to the power of simple food to bring people together, reminding me of cozy evenings spent around the table, sharing laughter and stories with the people I love most. It's the kind of meal that creates cherished memories, and that's something truly priceless.
Beyond the ease of preparation and delicious flavor, this recipe also offers a great opportunity for customization. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite combination. Sharp cheddar, Gruyere, or even a blend of cheeses would all work wonderfully. You could also add other vegetables, such as broccoli florets or peas, for extra nutrients and flavor. Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, before serving would elevate the dish even further. The possibilities are endless! The core recipe is a fantastic starting point but don't be afraid to get creative and put your own spin on it.
In the end, this recipe isn't just about the delicious food; it's about the memories created while making and sharing it. It's a simple recipe with a big heart, a testament to the joy found in creating comfort food for loved ones. So gather your family, put on some music, and enjoy the simple pleasure of cooking and sharing this heartwarming dish together. The smiles on their faces as they savor each bite will be more than enough reward.
