Pasta with cheese

Delicious Cheese Pasta Recipe

In a world full of sophisticated recipes, sometimes the simplest dishes bring us the greatest joys. Today, I invite you to discover a classic yet always appreciated recipe: Cheese Pasta. This combination of pasta and cheese is not only easy to prepare but also extremely tasty, perfect for a cozy family dinner or to impress guests.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 250 g macaroni (preferably durum wheat for better texture)
- 350 g soft cheese (cottage cheese is an excellent choice, but you can experiment with ricotta or goat cheese)
- 2 eggs (ideally at room temperature for better incorporation)
- 100 g grated parmesan (or cheddar cheese for a stronger flavor)
- salt (to taste)
- butter (for greasing the dish)
- breadcrumbs (to create a crispy crust)

A touch of history:

The cheese pasta recipe has deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures, often considered a comfort food. The origins of this recipe can be found in various dishes around the world, where the combination of pasta and cheese has been used as a simple and nourishing solution. Whether it's a quick lunch or a flavorful dinner, cheese pasta brings a sense of warmth and familiarity.

Preparation instructions:

1. Boiling the macaroni:
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a generous tablespoon of salt, then add the macaroni. Boil according to the package instructions, usually between 8-10 minutes, until al dente. When ready, drain them in a colander and quickly rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow them to cool slightly.

2. Preparing the cheese mixture:
In a large bowl, add the soft cheese (making sure there are no large chunks), the beaten eggs, a pinch of salt, and the grated parmesan. Use a fork or whisk to mix the ingredients until you achieve a smooth mixture. This step is crucial as the eggs will act as a binder for the composition.

3. Combining the ingredients:
Add the boiled macaroni to the cheese and egg mixture. Gently mix with a spatula, being careful not to crush the pasta but to incorporate them evenly.

4. Preparing the baking dish:
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Grease a baking dish with butter and coat it with breadcrumbs. This step will help prevent sticking and will give a crispy finish.

5. Baking:
Pour the pasta and cheese mixture into the prepared dish, leveling it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the top is golden and crispy. I recommend checking occasionally, as each oven may have its quirks.

6. Serving:
After removing the dish from the oven, let it cool for 5-10 minutes. This will allow the cheese to settle, making it easier to portion. Serve the dish warm, alongside a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors.

Helpful tips:

- Cheese variations: Experiment with different types of cheese. For example, you can add feta cheese for a saltier taste or mozzarella for a stretchier texture.
- Spices: Feel free to add herbs like oregano or basil for extra flavor.
- Crispy crust: If you want an even crunchier crust, sprinkle extra breadcrumbs on top of the dish before baking.
- For a complete meal: This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a blonde beer. A green salad with cherry tomatoes and balsamic vinegar will perfectly complement the meal.

Calories and nutritional benefits:

This cheese pasta recipe provides a good source of protein and calcium due to the cheese and eggs, while the macaroni contributes essential carbohydrates for energy. One serving (approximately 1/4 of the recipe) has about 450-500 calories, depending on the type of cheese and the amount of butter used.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta offers extra fiber and a richer taste.

2. How can I make the recipe spicier?
Add a bit of chili or paprika to the cheese mixture for an extra kick.

3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Sure! You can assemble the entire dish a few hours ahead and leave it in the fridge, then bake it before serving.

4. Is there a vegetarian option?
This recipe is already vegetarian, but make sure the chosen cheese is from plant sources if you want a 100% vegetarian version.

Cheese pasta is a dish that brings a smile to your face and a feeling of well-being, regardless of the occasion. Don't hesitate to experiment and add your personal touch! I wish you happy cooking and enjoy your meal!