Baked Pasta Recipe


Baked Pasta Recipe



20min
2-3 people
15 mins




Introduction:

 

Hey there, friends! Today, I'm excited to share with you one of my all-time favorite recipes: Baked Pasta. This dish holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of cozy family dinners and cherished moments spent in the kitchen with loved ones. The aroma of bubbling cheese and savory sauce filling the air never fails to transport me back to those precious times. Baked Pasta isn't just a meal; it's a comforting hug on a plate, bringing people together and creating lasting memories.

 

Now, let's dive into the recipe and discover the magic of Baked Pasta!

 

 

 

Recipe of Baked Pasta

 

Ingredients:

 

For Cheese Sauce:

  • 1 tbsp Butter
  • 3/4 tbsp Refined flour
  • 1 and 1/2 cups Milk
  • 1/2 cup Processed cheese, grated
  • 1 tbsp Chopped jalapeno
  • 1/2 tsp Paprika powder
  • 1/4 tsp Garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp Onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp Dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp Dried parsley
  • 1 cup Penne pasta

For Gratin:

  • 1/2 cup Mozzarella cheese, grated

For Veggies:

  • 1/4 cup Carrot, diamond-cut
  • 1/4 cup Beans, diamond-cut
  • 1/4 cup Baby corn, diamond-cut
  • 1/4 cup Zucchini, diamond-cut
  • 1/4 cup Cauliflower, small florets
  • 6 pcs Chopped olives

 

 

Method:

 

  1. Boil water in a pot and add salt, oil, and pasta. Cook for about 7 to 8 minutes until the pasta is half-cooked. Drain and set aside.

  2. For the cheese sauce, heat oil and butter in a pan. Add refined flour and stir continuously for a minute.

  3. Gradually pour warm milk into the pan while stirring continuously with a whisk.

  4. Add salt, black pepper powder, chopped jalapeno, paprika powder, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and dried parsley. Stir until the sauce thickens.

  5. In another pan, heat oil and butter. Add chopped onion, chopped garlic, onion powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper powder. Stir and cook for a minute.

  6. Add the diamond-cut vegetables and cook until they are 50% done. Then add the half-cooked pasta and the prepared cheese sauce. Mix well.

  7. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Garnish with chopped jalapeno, chopped olives, and grated mozzarella cheese.

  8. Bake in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for about 8 to 10 minutes, until the cheese melts and turns golden brown.

  9. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious baked pasta!

 

This recipe is sure to be loved by your family and friends.

 

 

 

About the Recipe:

 

Baked Pasta is a classic Italian-inspired dish that combines hearty pasta, rich tomato sauce, and creamy cheese into a mouthwatering masterpiece. This recipe is a labor of love, with each layer carefully crafted to perfection. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or simply craving a comforting meal, Baked Pasta is sure to satisfy your taste buds and warm your soul.

 

 

Cooking Tips:

 

  • Al Dente Pasta: Cook the pasta just until it's tender but still has a slight bite to it. This ensures that it holds its shape and texture after baking.
  • Layering Technique: Arrange the pasta, sauce, and cheese in layers to ensure even distribution of flavors throughout the dish.
  • Cheese Selection: Experiment with different types of cheese to find your perfect combination. Mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar are popular choices for Baked Pasta.
  • Covering with Foil: Cover the dish with foil during baking to prevent the cheese from burning. Remove the foil during the last few minutes to achieve a golden crust on top.
  • Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil over the finished dish for a pop of color and added freshness.

 

 

Pairing Guide:

 

  • Wine: Pair Baked Pasta with a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese to complement the rich flavors of the dish.
  • Salad: Serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta.
  • Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread makes the perfect accompaniment to soak up any leftover sauce on your plate.

 

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Baked Pasta:

 

  1. Can I use any type of pasta for Baked Pasta?

    • Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or fusilli.

  2. How do I prevent my Baked Pasta from drying out?

    • Make sure to cover the dish tightly with foil during baking to trap in moisture and prevent the pasta from drying out.

  3. Can I prepare Baked Pasta in advance?

    • Absolutely! You can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

  4. What can I add to Baked Pasta for extra flavor?

    • Feel free to add ingredients like cooked sausage, mushrooms, or spinach to enhance the flavor of your Baked Pasta.

  5. Can I freeze Baked Pasta leftovers?

    • Yes, Baked Pasta freezes well. Just portion it into individual servings, wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to three months.

  6. How do I reheat frozen Baked Pasta?

    • Thaw the pasta overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

  7. Can I make Baked Pasta gluten-free?

    • Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure that any other ingredients you use are also gluten-free.

  8. What's the best cheese to use for Baked Pasta?

    • While mozzarella is classic, you can also use a combination of cheeses like Parmesan, cheddar, or provolone for added flavor.

  9. How long does Baked Pasta stay fresh in the refrigerator?

    • Baked Pasta will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days when stored in an airtight container.

  10. Can I add vegetables to Baked Pasta?

    • Absolutely! Feel free to add diced tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, or any other vegetables you like to the dish for extra flavor and nutrition.

 

That's all for now, folks! I hope these tips and answers help you create the perfect Baked Pasta every time. Enjoy cooking and savoring this delicious dish with your loved ones!