Baked pasta pudding with cheese

Spaghetti Cheese Pudding - A Delight from Memories

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Who doesn’t remember the joy of childhood, when cold winter days were wrapped in the warmth of a table full of goodies? I fondly recall the moments when, after playing with our sled in the snow, we hurried inside, drawn by the inviting aroma of a steaming spaghetti cheese pudding waiting for us on the table. This recipe is more than just a simple dish; it’s a journey back in time, filled with nostalgia and warmth.

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 box of thin spaghetti (preferably Barilla no. 1)
- 700 g of creamy salty cheese (I recommend President cheese for a perfect taste)
- 100 g of butter (can also use reduced-fat butter for a more intense flavor)
- 8 tablespoons of creamy sour cream
- 3 fresh eggs
- 150 ml of sweet milk

The story of the recipe:
Spaghetti cheese pudding is a traditional dish often associated with cold winter days but can be enjoyed in any season. This combination of pasta and cheese has become popular due to its simplicity and comforting taste. It is a dish that brings the family together, evoking moments of warmth and love, just like in the old days.

Preparing the spaghetti pudding:

1. Boil the spaghetti: In a large pot, add water and a pinch of salt, then bring to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually for 3 minutes, until al dente. Don’t let them cook too long, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Once cooked, drain them well.

2. Prepare the cheese mixture: In a large bowl, add the creamy cheese. If it’s too compact, you can mash it with a fork or blend it lightly to achieve a finer texture. Add the cubed butter and mix well with a spatula until the butter melts and integrates perfectly into the cheese.

3. Add the spaghetti: Place the drained spaghetti over the cheese mixture and gently stir, ensuring that each strand of pasta is coated with cheese. This is the stage where the aroma will begin to reveal itself.

4. Prepare the liquid mixture: In another bowl, beat the eggs together with the sour cream and sweet milk. This mixture will give the pudding a creamy and moist texture. Make sure the eggs are well incorporated, then pour the mixture over the spaghetti.

5. Prepare the baking dish: Grease a heat-resistant dish (I personally prefer Delimano ceramic dishes for even heat distribution) with butter, so the pudding doesn’t stick. Use a spatula to transfer the spaghetti mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly across the surface.

6. Bake the pudding: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish in the oven and bake the pudding for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly browned. The aroma will fill the entire room and take you back to your childhood.

7. Serving: Once the pudding is ready, let it cool for a few minutes before cutting. Served hot, you can add sugar to taste, to enhance its sweet flavor. I remember how, as a child, I couldn’t resist the temptation of having a second helping, so don’t hesitate to treat yourself!

Practical tips:
- You can add some spices, such as pepper or oregano, to give the pudding a more complex flavor.
- If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can replace the salty cheese with feta or ricotta cheese, which will add an interesting note.
- This pudding pairs excellently with a fresh green salad for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Nutritional values (per serving):
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 14 g
- Fat: 22 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use whole grain pasta? Absolutely! You can replace regular spaghetti with whole grain pasta for a healthier option.
- How can I make the pudding less caloric? You can reduce the amount of butter and sour cream, or use lower-fat versions.
- Can the pudding be frozen? Yes, you can freeze portions of pudding, but it’s recommended to consume them fresh to maintain the creamy texture.

A personal note:
This spaghetti cheese pudding has always been a source of joy in my family. The memories of evenings spent around the table touch my heart, and I hope to bring the same joy to your table. So, don’t hesitate to share this recipe with your loved ones and create unforgettable moments together!