Delicious baked pasta

Delicious Baked Pasta

Total time: 45 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn't love a platter of baked pasta, with a creamy sauce and a generous layer of melted cheese? This simple and quick recipe for delicious baked pasta is perfect for those who want a comforting dinner but don't have much time to spare. Ideal for beginners, this recipe can be customized to suit your preferences!

A bit of history: Pasta has a long-standing tradition, being a staple food in many cultures around the world. Baking it with various additions is a method that has evolved over time, bringing together diverse elements to create a dish that delights the taste buds.

Ingredients:
- 400g pasta (tagliatelle, farfalle, macaroni, etc.)
- 400g sour cream
- 400g cheese (grated)
- 1 egg
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Optional: crispy bacon for added flavor

Preparation:

1. Boil the pasta: In a large pot, add water, a tablespoon of salt, and a few drops of oil to prevent the pasta from sticking. Bring the water to a boil, and when it starts boiling, add the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente (slightly firm to the bite). This will take between 8 and 12 minutes, depending on the type of pasta.

2. Prepare the sauce: In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg with a fork. Add the sour cream, 300g of grated cheese, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well to obtain a homogeneous mixture. This blend will add creaminess and flavor to your dish.

3. Drain the pasta: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and let it cool for a few minutes. It is important not to rinse it with water, as this could remove the natural starch that helps the sauce stick.

4. Combine the pasta with the sauce: In a large bowl, mix the drained pasta with the previously prepared sauce. Ensure that each piece of pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.

5. Transfer to the baking dish: Pour the pasta and sauce mixture into a heat-resistant dish. Spread it evenly, and then sprinkle the remaining 100g of grated cheese on top. This will form a golden, crispy crust during baking.

6. Bake the pasta: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the dish in the oven. Bake the pasta for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese on top is melted and has taken on a nice golden color. The aroma that will fill your kitchen will be irresistible!

7. Serving: Once the pasta is ready, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly for a few minutes. These delicious baked pasta are perfect served warm, and for an extra flavor boost, you can add crispy bacon on top.

Practical tips:
- You can vary the type of pasta according to your preferences or what you have on hand.
- If you like vegetables, add some sautéed vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach, to the pasta mixture for an extra nutrient boost.
- If you want a healthier version, you can use light sour cream or Greek yogurt instead of regular sour cream.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use whole grain pasta? Absolutely! Whole grain pasta is an excellent choice for adding more fiber and nutrients.
- What can I do with leftovers? This recipe can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven for a quick meal!
- Can I add meat? Of course! Cooked chicken or ground beef are excellent options that can be added to the sauce.

Nutritional benefits:
Pasta is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy. Sour cream and cheese add protein and calcium, essential for bone health. Adding vegetables to this dish not only enriches it in nutrients but also makes it more colorful and appetizing.

Delicious combinations:
These delicious baked pasta pair perfectly with a fresh green salad or a tomato and cucumber salad. Also, a glass of dry white wine will perfectly complement this meal.

Remember, cooking is an art, and every recipe can become unique by adding your personal touch. So, dare to experiment with ingredients and flavors! Enjoy your meal!