This oven baked Amish farmer's cheese pasta is the kind of simple, cozy supper that saves the day when the pantry feels a little bare and everyone is hungry. Inspired by old-fashioned casserole-style meals that make the most of a few humble ingredients, it layers dry bow tie pasta with shredded farmer's cheese, milk, and butter right in the baking dish, then bakes into a tender, creamy dish with a lightly golden top.
Serve this pasta with a crisp green salad, buttered green beans, or simple roasted broccoli to balance its rich, comforting texture. For a heartier family meal, add warm dinner rolls, sliced cucumbers, or a little smoked sausage on the side, and finish with black pepper or chopped parsley at the table.
Oven Baked 4-Ingredient Amish Farmer's Cheese Pasta
Servings: 6
Ingredients
12 ounces dry bow tie pasta
2 cups shredded farmer's cheese
2 cups whole milk
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a 9x13-inch glass baking dish.
2. Spread the dry bow tie pasta evenly in the prepared baking dish.
3. Scatter the shredded farmer's cheese over the pasta, then dot the top with the pieces of butter.
4. Pour the milk evenly over everything, making sure most of the pasta is moistened. Cover the dish tightly with foil.
5. Bake covered for 35 minutes, then uncover and bake 15 to 20 minutes more, or until the pasta is tender and the top is lightly golden. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving so the sauce can settle and turn creamy.
Variations & Tips
For extra seasoning: If your family likes a little more flavor, add a pinch of salt and black pepper before baking, or sprinkle chopped parsley over the top before serving for a fresh finish.
For picky eaters: Keep the base recipe plain the first time, then let everyone add their own extras at the table, like grated Parmesan, cracked pepper, or a spoonful of sautéed onions on the side.
For a richer casserole: Replace 1/2 cup of the milk with heavy cream if you want a softer, more indulgent texture. This makes the finished dish especially nice for Sunday supper or a cold-weather dinner.
Baking tip: Check the pasta near the end of baking and add a splash more milk if the dish looks dry before the noodles are tender. Different brands of pasta can absorb liquid a little differently, so this small adjustment helps keep the casserole creamy.