Pasta with cheese and cheese baked in the oven

Pasta with Cheese and Cheese Bake

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Welcome to the world of culinary delights! Today, I will guide you step by step in preparing a simple yet incredibly delicious recipe: pasta with cheese and cheese bake. This dish is perfect for a quick dinner but also to impress guests at a party. It is a combination of creamy pasta, melted cheese, and garlic flavor that is sure to bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones.

A brief history of the recipe

Cheese pasta is a dish that has crossed generations and cultures, bringing together simple yet delicious flavors. This recipe has evolved over time, being adapted based on available ingredients and personal preferences. Today, I propose a version that retains the traditional essence while adding a touch of innovation through melted cheese.

Ingredients

- 400 g pasta (I used wavy shells, but you can choose any type of pasta you prefer)
- 500 ml milk
- 200 g grated telemea cheese
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 20-30 g butter, plus a few pieces for greasing
- 100 g grated cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 4 cloves of garlic, crushed (or more if you're a garlic fan)
- 40 g melted cheese with a sour cream flavor (optional, but recommended for extra creaminess)

Step by step: Preparing pasta with cheese and cheese

1. Boiling the pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions. Make sure the pasta is al dente, as it will cook a little more in the oven. Once ready, drain and set aside.

2. Preparing the creamy sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and mix vigorously for one minute until it becomes a smooth paste. This step is essential to avoid lumps. Then, gradually add the milk, stirring continuously. The sauce will begin to thicken.

3. Adding cheese and seasonings: When the sauce reaches the desired consistency, add the grated telemea cheese, crushed garlic, and melted cheese if you chose to use it. Mix well until the cheese completely melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. The perfect combination: In a heatproof baking dish greased with a little butter, add the cooked pasta. Pour the creamy sauce over the pasta and mix well to ensure every piece of pasta is generously covered.

5. Finalizing the dish: Grate cheese over the pasta, then add a few pieces of butter for extra flavor. This step will contribute to a golden and crispy crust.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the dish with pasta in the oven. Let it bake for 20-25 minutes or until the surface is golden and appetizing.

7. Serving: Once the pasta is ready, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. You can garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a fresher look and pleasant aroma.

Practical tips for a perfect result

- Make sure to use quality telemea cheese, as the final taste of the dish depends greatly on it.
- If you want an even creamier sauce, you can add a bit of sour cream or coconut milk.
- Replace telemea cheese with feta cheese for a more intense flavor and different texture.
- If you like smoky flavors, you can add a bit of smoked cheese to the sauce.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer: penne, fusilli, spaghetti, or even whole grain pasta for a healthier option.

2. How can I make the dish spicier?
Add a few chili flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.

3. Can these pastas be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the pasta before baking it. Make sure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is rich in protein due to the cheese and milk, while the pasta provides essential carbohydrates for energy. Garlic is known for its antioxidant properties, and telemea cheese brings important minerals like calcium and phosphorus.

Delicious pairings

These pasta with cheese and cheese go perfectly with a fresh green salad or a salad of crunchy tomatoes and cucumbers. Also, a glass of white wine or a cold lemonade will perfectly complement the meal.

Now that you have all the necessary details, you are ready to start cooking! Don’t forget to enjoy every step of this process. Bon appétit!