Pasta pudding

Pasta Pudding with Chicken and Smoked Cheese

If you're looking for a comforting recipe that will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones, pasta pudding is the perfect choice. Combining hearty pasta, succulent chicken, and delicious smoked cheese, this dish is not only nourishing but also easy to make. In this guide, I will walk you step by step through your culinary journey, providing you with useful tips and information about the ingredients used. Whether you serve it warm or cold, pasta pudding is sure to become a family favorite.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 500 grams of durum wheat pasta (preferably penne or fusilli)
- 300 grams of chicken breast pastrama (or cooked chicken)
- 1 red bell pepper, julienned
- 4 eggs
- 200 ml of sweet cream
- 500 grams of grated smoked cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Pasta
1. Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to flavor the pasta.
2. When the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, but make sure to stop when it's al dente. This step is essential to avoid a mushy pasta pudding.
3. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and let it cool slightly.

Preparing the Mixture
4. In a large bowl, beat the eggs with a whisk until homogeneous. Add the sweet cream and mix well until you achieve a creamy mixture.
5. Add the thinly sliced red bell pepper and the diced chicken pastrama to the egg mixture. These ingredients not only add flavor but also a pleasant texture to the dish.
6. Add 400 grams of the grated cheese to the egg mixture, reserving the rest for sprinkling on top. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper.

Assembling the Pudding
7. In a large bowl, add the drained pasta and the egg mixture. Gently mix to avoid breaking the pasta, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
8. Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or oil to prevent sticking. Pour the pasta mixture and level it with a spatula.

Baking
9. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes.
10. After 20 minutes, remove the dish and sprinkle the remaining grated cheese on top. Add tomato slices for an extra touch of freshness and color.
11. Put the dish back in the oven and bake for another 20 minutes or until the pudding is golden and crispy on top.

Serving
12. Once the pudding is ready, let it cool slightly before cutting it into slices. It can be served warm or at room temperature, making it ideal for picnics.
13. You can accompany it with a fresh green salad or a yogurt and dill sauce for a refreshing contrast.

Tips and Variations
- If you want to add a note of freshness, you can include herbs like basil or parsley.
- You can try replacing the chicken pastrama with a mix of roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version.
- Substitute the smoked cheese with regular cheese or mozzarella for a different flavor.

Nutritional Benefits
This pasta pudding is rich in protein due to the eggs and chicken, while the cheese adds calcium and healthy fats. The durum wheat pasta provides complex carbohydrates, essential for energy. Additionally, the red bell pepper contributes vitamins and antioxidants.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use whole wheat pasta? Yes, whole wheat pasta will provide a more intense flavor and superior nutritional value.
- How can I store the pasta pudding? You can store it in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 3-4 days. It can be reheated in the microwave or oven.
- Is the pasta pudding suitable for children? Absolutely! It is a nutrient-rich dish, ideal for family meals.

Pairing with Other Dishes
Pasta pudding pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or a tomato and onion salad. You can also enjoy a glass of dry white wine or iced tea to complete the meal.

In conclusion, pasta pudding with chicken and smoked cheese is a simple yet flavorful recipe that is sure to impress. With every bite, you will bring a touch of joy to your table. Try it and discover how easy it can be to create a dish that brings the family together!