Description
Zesty Honey BBQ Ranch Beef Bowtie Bake
Ingredients:
1 lb bowtie pasta
1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup honey BBQ sauce
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 packet ranch seasoning
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup pepper jack cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/3 cup milk
Instructions:
Boil pasta and set aside.
Cook beef, then add garlic powder, BBQ sauce, and ranch seasoning.
Combine sour cream, milk, and shredded cheeses in a bowl.
Mix everything together and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes.
Serve hot and enjoy with a side of roasted veggies.
Why You’ll Love It:
A cheesy, garlicky meal that’s perfect for weeknights!
#BoldBBQPasta #CreamyCheesyBakes
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. 2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, return to the pot, and set aside. 3. While the pasta cooks, brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease. 4. Reduce heat to low. To the skillet with the beef, add the honey BBQ sauce, garlic powder, and the entire packet of ranch seasoning. Stir until the beef is evenly coated and simmer for 2-3 minutes. 5. In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream and milk, whisking until smooth. Stir in the shredded cheddar and pepper jack cheeses. 6. Pour the cheese sauce and the BBQ beef mixture into the pot with the drained pasta. Gently fold everything together until the pasta is fully coated. 7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. 8. Bake, uncovered, for 25 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the edges are bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty bake is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with simple sides to balance its rich flavors. Serve it with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, or with roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts. For a fresh contrast, add a side of garlic bread or a tangy coleslaw. It’s also fantastic topped with extra shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or a dollop of extra sour cream right before serving.
How-to Summary
Cook pasta and brown beef. Mix BBQ sauce, ranch, and garlic into the beef. Make a cheese sauce with sour cream, milk, and shredded cheeses. Combine everything, transfer to a baking dish, and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the bake completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What can I use instead of ground beef? Ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based ground meat alternative work well. Adjust cooking times as needed.
My sauce seems too thick. What should I do? Before baking, stir in an additional 2-3 tablespoons of milk to loosen the mixture. The pasta will also absorb some liquid as it bakes.
Can I freeze the leftovers? Absolutely. Portion the cooled bake into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Is there a substitute for the ranch seasoning packet? You can use 2 tablespoons of a homemade ranch seasoning blend or, in a pinch, 1 tablespoon of dried dill, 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and dried parsley.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the pasta initially, as it will soften further in the oven—aim for al dente. Do not skip draining the excess grease from the cooked beef, as it can make the final dish oily. Ensure the sour cream and milk are well-combined before adding cheese to prevent a grainy sauce. Finally, do not overmix when combining all components, as this can break down the pasta and make the texture mushy.
Conclusion
This Zesty Honey BBQ Ranch Beef Bowtie Bake is the ultimate comfort food fusion, delivering bold, tangy, and creamy flavors in every bite. Its simple preparation and crowd-pleasing profile make it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With the ability to customize proteins and sides, it’s a versatile recipe you’ll return to again and again. Give it a try for a satisfying meal that truly delivers on its promise of cheesy, garlicky goodness.
