Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary cheese lover's dream! Our Four Cheese Baked Bow Ties recipe is not just a meal—it's a decadent experience that combines the perfect blend of creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, sharp parmesan, and rich cheddar, all dancing together in a symphony of flavors. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a comforting Italian-inspired feast, this recipe promises to be your new go-to comfort food that's both simple to make and absolutely irresistible.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz bow tie pasta
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, parmesan cheese, and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
- Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture. Stir to distribute seasonings evenly.
- Gently fold the cooked bow tie pasta into the cheese mixture, ensuring each pasta piece is coated with the cheese blend.
- Pour half of the marinara sauce into the prepared baking dish, creating an even base layer.
- Transfer the cheese-coated pasta into the baking dish, spreading it evenly over the marinara sauce.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the pasta, then sprinkle the reserved mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and slightly golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let the dish rest for 5-7 minutes before serving to allow cheese to set and flavors to meld.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional fresh herbs or grated parmesan if desired.
Tips
- Cook pasta al dente: The key to a perfect texture is to slightly undercook the pasta, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Room temperature cheese: Let your cheeses sit out for 15-20 minutes before mixing to ensure smoother blending.
- Season generously: Don't be shy with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper—they elevate the entire dish's flavor profile.
- Foil technique: Covering the dish for the first part of baking prevents cheese from burning and helps create a creamy consistency.
- Resting time matters: Allowing the dish to rest 5-7 minutes after baking helps the cheese set and intensifies the flavors.
- Optional garnishes: Fresh basil, parsley, or extra grated parmesan can add a beautiful finishing touch.
- Make ahead friendly: You can prepare this dish earlier in the day and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 65mg
