Baked penne with ham, bacon, and mushrooms

Name: Baked penne with ham, bacon, and mushrooms - Melania A.
Ingredients: 400 g penne; 230 g mushrooms; 150 g ham; 80 g bacon; 700 g tomato sauce; 200 g grated cheese; 1 medium onion; 2 green onions; 1 pickled chili pepper; 3 cloves of garlic; 1 teaspoon thyme; 1 teaspoon oregano; salt and pepper to taste

Pasta/Pizza - Baked penne with ham, bacon, and mushrooms by Melania A. - Recipia

Baked penne with ham, bacon, and mushrooms - a delight that combines intense flavors and varied textures for a delicious and hearty meal. This pasta recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a lunch with friends. With a preparation time of about 20 minutes and a baking time of 40-50 minutes, you will achieve a main dish that is sure to impress everyone. I suggest we embark together on preparing baked pasta that perfectly combines the ingredients. Before we move on to the recipe, let’s remember that the origins of baked pasta dishes are deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of many cultures, serving as an excellent way to transform simple ingredients into a savory and comforting dish. Preparation time: 20 minutes Baking time: 40-50 minutes Total time: 1 hour Number of servings: 4-6 Necessary ingredients: - 400 g penne - 230 g mushrooms (fresh or canned) - 150 g ham (preferably high quality) - 80 g bacon (or pancetta for a more intense flavor) - 700 g tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought) - 200 g grated cheese (or a mix of cheeses) - 1 medium onion - 2 green onions - 1 chili pepper (optional, for extra spice) - 3 cloves of garlic - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon oregano (or Herbes de Provence) - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 tablespoon olive oil (or sunflower oil) Step-by-step preparation: 1. Boil the pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil, add salt (about one teaspoon per liter of water), and once the water is boiling, add the penne pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, making sure to cook them al dente (slightly firm inside). Once cooked, drain well and set aside in a large bowl. 2. Prepare the vegetables: Wash the onion, green onions, and garlic. Slice the onion thinly and chop the green onions into rings. Mince or crush the garlic. If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can leave the garlic whole and add it to the pan, removing it later. 3. Chili pepper: Remove the seeds from the chili pepper and chop it finely. Be careful with the amount; if you are not a fan of spicy food, you can omit it or use only part of it. 4. Prepare the meat and vegetable mixture: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the onion, green onions, chili pepper, and garlic. Lightly salt and add the thyme and oregano. Let the ingredients cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. 5. Add the mushrooms and meat: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet, mixing well. Then add the pieces of ham and bacon. Let everything cook over medium heat for 5-10 minutes until the meat is crispy and the mushrooms release their juices. 6. Mix with the pasta: Pour the meat and vegetable mixture over the drained pasta. Add the tomato sauce (about 500-600 g). If you like, you can also add a sprinkle of oregano for extra flavor. Mix everything carefully, ensuring that the pasta is well coated with sauce. 7. Prepare the baking dish: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Pour the pasta mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly. Add the remaining tomato sauce on top and sprinkle the remaining cheese to create a delicious crust. 8. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40-50 minutes or until the cheese is golden and crispy. The aroma that will spread throughout the house will be unforgettable! 9. Serving: After removing from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the pasta with a fresh green salad on the side or with warm homemade bread. A bottle of white wine or a refreshing cocktail will perfectly complement the meal. Useful tips: - Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of baked penne contains about 600-700 calories, depending on the amount of cheese and type of meat used. This pasta is rich in carbohydrates, proteins, and filling, providing a good source of energy. - Possible variations: If you want to experiment, you can replace the ham and bacon with chicken or turkey. Add vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers for a vegetarian version. - Frequently asked questions: - Can I use whole wheat pasta? Yes, whole wheat pasta is a healthier option, rich in fiber. - How can I make this recipe easier? Use store-bought tomato sauce to save time. - Can I freeze this pasta? Yes, you can freeze individual portions, but make sure to let them cool completely before packing. Baked penne with ham, bacon, and mushrooms is not only a quick recipe but also a perfect opportunity to gather the family around the table. We aim to turn every meal into a celebration! By preparing this main dish, you will enjoy a combination of flavors that will make every bite memorable. Try this recipe and let yourself be carried away into the world of delicious tastes!