Pasta pudding with mushrooms

Pasta Casserole with Mushrooms

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to the delicious world of cooking, where every ingredient tells a story! Today, I invite you to discover a delightful and comforting recipe: Pasta Casserole with Mushrooms. This dish is perfect for a quick yet sophisticated dinner, ideal for impressing family or friends. Let’s begin this culinary adventure!

A Brief Story

Pasta casserole is a dish that combines tradition with innovation. Its origins lie in home cooking, being an excellent way to use up leftover pasta and vegetables. This recipe has evolved over time, becoming a comforting dish loved by everyone. Mushrooms add an umami note, while melted cheese on top provides a delicious crust, transforming a simple pasta dish into a true feast!

Ingredients

- 200 g egg pasta (noodles)
- 250 g fresh or canned mushrooms
- 50 g butter
- 2 medium onions, diced
- 1 tablespoon mushroom-flavored soup powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- 250 ml cooking cream
- 100 g grated cheese (preferably Parmesan)

Get to Work!

Step 1: Cooking the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a teaspoon of salt to flavor the pasta. When the water is boiling, add the noodles and let them cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes between 8 and 12 minutes, depending on the type of pasta.

Helpful Tips:
- Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally to prevent sticking.
- You can test the pasta one minute before the indicated time to ensure it’s perfect.

Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Place it in a large bowl and drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil to keep it separate.

Step 2: Preparing the Filling

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, a process that takes about 5 minutes. Then, add the sliced mushrooms. If using canned mushrooms, make sure to drain them well before use.

Tip:
- Fresh mushrooms add a more intense flavor, but canned ones can also be used successfully. If you choose fresh mushrooms, you can also add spices like garlic or herbs for a more complex taste.

Sauté the mushrooms with the onion until they are lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Once they have color, let the mixture cool slightly.

Step 3: Combining the Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat the eggs with salt and pepper, then add the cream. Mix well, then incorporate the sautéed onion and mushrooms. Now, add the pasta and carefully mix everything, ensuring that each piece of pasta is well coated with the egg and cream mixture.

Frequently Asked Question:
- Can I use other types of cream?
Yes, you can use sour cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Step 4: Baking

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Grease a baking dish (Pyrex) with a little butter to prevent sticking. Pour the pasta mixture into the dish and level it evenly. Sprinkle the grated cheese on top, which will form a delicious crust during baking.

Helpful Tips:
- You can also add chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for an extra flavor boost.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and let it bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and crispy.

Step 5: Serving

Once the casserole is ready, let it cool for a few minutes before cutting. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or grilled vegetables to create a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors. This casserole is delicious both warm and at room temperature.

Possible Variations:
- You can replace the mushrooms with spinach or zucchini for a vegetarian version.
- Add some crispy bacon slices for a richer taste.

Nutritional Benefits

This pasta casserole is an excellent source of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats. Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and B vitamins, while cheese provides calcium and essential proteins. The cream adds creaminess, and the onion brings a natural sweetness and flavor.

Estimated calories per serving: 400-500 kcal, depending on the ingredients used.

I hope you enjoyed this recipe for Pasta Casserole with Mushrooms! Don’t forget to share the final result with your loved ones and enjoy every bite. Cooking is an art, and every meal is an opportunity to create delicious memories! Enjoy your meal!