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Creamy Pasta Bowl

Featured in Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion.

Tender bowtie pasta paired with ham, fresh veggies, and cheese, all tossed in a creamy homemade dressing. Great make-ahead option for sunny day celebrations.

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Barbara Chef
Updated on Wed, 09 Apr 2025 22:59:32 GMT
A bowl of creamy bowtie pasta salad with mixed veggies and cheese cubes. Pin it
A bowl of creamy bowtie pasta salad with mixed veggies and cheese cubes. | cookwithcarla.com

The Ultimate Summer Bow Tie Delight

I've tweaked this Bow Tie Pasta Mix over many backyard parties until it's become the dish everyone begs me for. Soft pasta gets coated in my homemade sauce with ham bits, gooey cheese, bright peas, crunchy onions, and diced peppers. It's weird how these simple ingredients transform when thrown together - now it steals the show at every cookout, community dinner, and family outing.

Your Go-To Crowd Pleaser

This pasta combo has won its way into my regular cooking lineup. It works great alongside barbecued meats, but truth be told, I whip it up regardless of season. Those adorable bow tie pieces scoop up all the creamy goodness, making each mouthful burst with flavor. Whenever I set this down at gatherings, folks always track me down wanting to know how I made it.

Why It Works So Well

  • Pasta: Bow ties trap the tasty bits in their curved shapes.
  • Ham: Chopped ham gives you tasty savory pockets throughout.
  • Cheese: Grated cheese partly dissolves into the just-cooked pasta for rich taste.
  • Peas: Bright bursts that add a fresh touch in each bite.
  • Onions: The right amount for a zingy bite and texture.
  • Bell Peppers: They add wonderful colors and a satisfying snap.
A close-up of creamy pasta salad featuring bow-tie pasta, red and yellow bell pepper, and green peas in a light sauce. Pin it
A close-up of creamy pasta salad featuring bow-tie pasta, red and yellow bell pepper, and green peas in a light sauce. | cookwithcarla.com

Magic Happens In The Mix

Whipping Up The Dream Dressing
My unique combo of smooth mayo, zesty mustard and sweet pickle relish blends into a sauce that perfectly clings to each pasta piece.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Definitely, you can make it a whole day in advance. Chilling it actually boosts the flavors!

→ How do I stop the pasta from clumping?

Once cooked, rinse it with cold water and immediately mix in a bit of dressing.

→ Can I switch out the pasta shape?

Sure thing! Rotini, shells, or penne would work just as well here.

→ What’s a good ham substitute?

Diced chicken or turkey are great substitutes, or skip it altogether for a vegetarian dish.

→ Why is my dish losing its creamy texture?

The pasta keeps soaking up the dressing. Hold some back to mix in just before eating.

Creamy Pasta Bowl

A vibrant mix of pasta, ham, cheddar, peas, and peppers, coated in a smooth creamy dressing—ideal for summer gatherings.

Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
70 Minutes
Total Time
90 Minutes

Category: Main Dishes

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 8 Servings (1 big bowl)

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

01 1 pound bow tie pasta.
02 8 ounces diced cheddar cheese.
03 1 cup cubed cooked ham.
04 1/2 small sweet or white onion, chopped.
05 1/2 cup thawed peas (frozen).
06 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper.
07 1 cup mayo.
08 3 tablespoons sweet or dill relish.
09 1 tablespoon vinegar (white).
10 2 tablespoons white sugar.
11 1 teaspoon yellow mustard.
12 1/2 teaspoon salt.
13 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper.

Instructions

Step 01

Stir together all the dressing ingredients.

Step 02

Pop the dressing in the fridge while working on the rest.

Step 03

Boil the pasta until it’s tender but still has a bite.

Step 04

Rinse the cooked pasta under cold water and drain it properly.

Step 05

In a big bowl, toss the pasta with the rest of the salad fixings.

Step 06

Pour the chilled dressing over everything and mix gently.

Step 07

Let it rest in the fridge for about an hour before serving.

Notes

  1. It’s ideal for making ahead of time.
  2. A hit at outdoor gatherings and potlucks.
  3. Make it your own by swapping veggies.
  4. Stays good in the fridge for up to three days.
  5. Give it a quick stir before dishing out.

Tools You'll Need

  • A pot big enough for boiling pasta.
  • Some mixing bowls.
  • A colander for draining.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy (cheddar).
  • Includes wheat (pasta).
  • Has eggs (mayo).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 414
  • Total Fat: 17 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 50 g
  • Protein: 15 g