Baked pasta with cheese

Baked Cheese Pasta

When it comes to comfort food, few recipes compare to the delicious baked cheese pasta. This simple and quick recipe transforms basic ingredients into a creamy and enticing dish, perfect for any meal, whether it's a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Each bite is an explosion of flavor, and the mix of cheese and milk creates a dish that is sure to impress everyone.

The history of baked cheese pasta is rich and varied, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Over time, baked cheese pasta has been adapted in countless ways, becoming a symbol of comfort cooking and family meals.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 400 g short pasta (preferably penne or fusilli)
- 400 g telemea cheese (or feta cheese for a saltier taste)
- 300 g sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar (approx. 10 g)
- 600 ml milk
- 3 knobs of margarine (or butter for a richer taste)
- A pinch of salt (for boiling water)

Preparation:

1. Boiling the pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt, and when the water boils, add the short pasta. Cook according to the package instructions but stop 2-3 minutes before the recommended time, as they will continue to cook in the oven.

2. Preparing the cheese mixture:
In a large bowl, crumble the telemea cheese with a fork. Add the sugar, eggs, vanilla sugar, and milk. Mix well with a whisk or hand mixer until you achieve a smooth mixture. This combination will become the creamy base of your dish.

3. Combining the pasta with the cheese mixture:
When the pasta is half-cooked, drain it well and pour it into a greased baking dish. Spread the pasta evenly in the dish. Then, carefully pour the cheese mixture over the pasta, ensuring that each piece of pasta is well covered.

4. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat). Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheese mixture becomes golden and slightly browned on top. This is the moment when the aroma will spread throughout the house, and everyone around will be eager to try your delight.

5. Serving:
Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Portion and serve the baked cheese pasta warm, perhaps with a fresh green salad on the side for a pleasant contrast, or with a spoonful of sour cream on top for added creaminess.

Useful tips:
- You can experiment with different types of cheese. For example, a combination of cottage cheese and mozzarella can provide an interesting texture and flavor.
- Add a bit of black pepper or herbs (basil or oregano) to the cheese mixture for an extra flavor boost.
- If you want to make this recipe heartier, you can incorporate vegetables (such as spinach or zucchini) or meat (chicken or crispy bacon).

Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: approximately 450-500 kcal
- A good source of protein and calcium from the cheese and eggs, this recipe will fill you up and provide energy for the whole day.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use whole grain pasta? Absolutely! Whole grain pasta adds fiber and a slightly more robust flavor.
- Can this recipe be prepared in advance? Yes, you can assemble everything a day ahead and bake it on the day you want to serve it.
- How can I store leftovers? You can keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. I recommend reheating them in the oven to maintain the crispy texture.

This baked cheese pasta is not only a tasty meal but also an opportunity to bring the family together around the table. Experiment with ingredients and personalize the recipe to your taste! You are sure to find the perfect version that will become a favorite in your home. Enjoy your meal!