This simple baked dessert is the kind of playful pantry recipe that feels perfect for a family celebration like National Son's and Daughter's Day. Using bow tie pasta in a sweet casserole-style bake might sound unexpected, but it comes together like an easy noodle pudding with very little effort, which is exactly the kind of dessert I love keeping in my back pocket for a busy weeknight when I still want something warm and homemade on the table.
Serve this dessert warm on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. It also pairs nicely with fresh berries, a dollop of whipped topping, or a light dusting of cinnamon, and if you're putting together a family dinner, it fits right in after comfort-food favorites like baked chicken, meatloaf, or a simple roast.
4-Ingredient Oven Baked National Son's and Daughter's Day Dessert
Servings: 6
Ingredients
8 ounces dry uncooked bow tie pasta
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a medium oven-safe glass baking dish.
2. Add the dry bow tie pasta to the baking dish, then pour in the milk and sweetened condensed milk. Stir gently so the pasta is evenly coated.
3. Sprinkle the cinnamon evenly over the top and give the mixture one more light stir.
4. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove the foil, stir carefully, and continue baking for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Let the dessert rest for 10 minutes before serving so the sauce can thicken slightly. Spoon warm portions into bowls and serve.
Variations & Tips
Add vanilla: If you have it on hand, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract with the milk for a warmer bakery-style flavor that makes the dessert taste a little more finished.
Try raisins or dried fruit: For a more old-fashioned pudding feel, add a small handful of raisins or chopped dried cranberries before baking. It is an easy way to give the dessert extra texture without making it complicated.
Watch the liquid level: Oven temperatures can vary, so check the pasta near the end of baking. If it still looks too firm, add a splash of milk and bake a little longer; if it looks very loose, let it stand before serving and it will continue to set up.
Make it ahead: This dessert reheats surprisingly well for next-day treats. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and warm individual portions with a splash of milk to bring back the creamy texture.
