Description
Try this Zesty Honey BBQ Ranch Beef Bowtie Bake! Tender pasta, savory beef, and a zesty BBQ-ranch-honey sauce, all topped with melted cheese and crispy breadcrumbs. A hearty, family-favorite comfort dish!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb bowtie pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
- 1 lb ground beef (for a savory base)
- 1 onion, chopped (adds sweetness and depth)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced (for color and crunch)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (for tangy, smoky flavor)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (adds creaminess and herby notes)
- 1/4 cup honey (for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (enhances the smoky flavor)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for a melty, cheesy topping)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for a crispy finish)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (helps the breadcrumbs crisp up)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Beef Mixture:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and diced red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a bowl, mix the BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, honey, and smoked paprika.
- Add the sauce to the skillet with the beef and vegetables. Stir to combine and cook for 5 more minutes.
- Assemble the Bake:
- In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked pasta and beef mixture. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Add the Topping:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil, then sprinkle them over the cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve:
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use low-fat ranch dressing and reduce the amount of cheese.
- Double the recipe for larger gatherings—this bake is always a hit!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American