Pasta gratin with potatoes and bacon

Pasta gratin with potatoes and bacon

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Welcome to the world of culinary delights! Today I'll guide you step by step in making a potato and bacon pasta gratin, a recipe that combines rich flavors and creamy textures to create a comforting and satisfying dish. This dish is perfect for family meals or an evening out to impress your guests.

The history of this gratin is rooted in culinary traditions that combine simple but flavorful ingredients transformed by cooking techniques that bring them to the fore. Gratination is a cooking method that gives a golden brown and crispy texture to dishes, and the combination of pasta, potatoes and bacon is truly irresistible.

Ingredients needed:

- 200g bacon, diced
- 4-5 medium potatoes (about 500 g)
- 400 g béchamel sauce (prepared or bought)
- 100 g cheese or Parmesan, grated
- 1 pack mozzarella (about 125 g), sliced
- A pinch of curry powder
- 100 g sour cream
- 500 g pasta (ps: choose your favorite, penne or fusilli works great)
- About 20 g butter
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing ingredients:

1. Potatoes: Wash the potatoes well under running water, then peel them. Cut them into small cubes, about 1 cm, to cook evenly. Potatoes add a soft texture and sweet taste, perfectly complemented by the salty bacon.

2. Béchamel sauce: If you decide to make it at home, mix 60g butter with 60g flour in a pan, gradually add 500ml milk and stir constantly until the sauce thickens. Add salt, pepper and a pinch of nutmeg to intensify the flavors.

3. Pasta: Boil pasta according to package directions in salted water until al dente. It is important to drain them well as they will continue to cook in the oven.

4. Bacon and potatoes: In a large frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat, add the bacon and cook until crispy. Then add the cooked potato cubes, boiled together for a few minutes to add delicious flavor. Finally, add the cream and mix well.

Assembling the gratin:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce to prevent sticking.

3. Add a layer of cooked pasta, followed by a layer of béchamel sauce. Repeat this process, alternating between pasta and sauce, until all ingredients are used. Make sure the last layer is be béchamel sauce.

4. Sprinkle the grated cheese or grated Parmesan and place the mozzarella slices on top. This layer will become nicely golden and crispy as it bakes.

5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Baking:

1. Cover the pan with aluminum foil for the first 20 minutes of baking, then remove foil and let the gratin bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.

2. Once done, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before portioning. This step helps to set the layers and makes for prettier portions.

Serving suggestions:

This potato and bacon pasta gratin is delicious and can be served plain or alongside a fresh salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes and a light lemon dressing. A glass of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade can also complement the meal perfectly.

Possible variations:

For a vegetarian variation, you can replace the bacon with mushrooms or vegetables of your choice, such as zucchini or peppers. You can also add fresh herbs, such as basil or oregano, for extra flavor.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, whole wheat pasta is a healthy option and can be used in this recipe without any problems.

2. Can I prepare the gratin in advance?
Yes, you can assemble it a few hours before baking. Cover with aluminum foil and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake it, let it come to room temperature before putting it in the oven.

3. How long does the gratin keep?
The gratin can be refrigerated for 2-3 days in an airtight container. Warm in the oven or microwave before serving.

Nutritional benefits:

This recipe offers a combination of carbohydrates from pasta and potatoes, protein from bacon and dairy, and healthy fats. It's a hearty meal that can provide energy throughout the day, but it's best eaten in moderation due to its high calorie content.

Enjoy and keep cooking! Remember to enjoy every step of this delicious process!