This baked pasta dish is so delicious that there will be nothing left once everyone has had a taste. Follow these detailed steps to create a meal that’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups tomato sauce
- 4 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 400 grams grated mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 50 grams grated Parmesan cheese
- 200 grams jar of creamy cheese (such as cream cheese or ricotta)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 generous pinch black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (divided)
- Generous drizzle of olive oil (divided)
- 500 grams pasta nests
- Parsley to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of tomato sauce and 4 teaspoons of granulated sugar. The sugar helps to balance the acidity of the tomato sauce.
- Add 400 grams of grated mozzarella cheese (reserving 100 grams for later), 50 grams of grated Parmesan cheese, and the contents of a 200 grams jar of creamy cheese. The creamy cheese adds richness and a smooth texture to the sauce.
- Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of oregano, 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika, a generous pinch of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Add a generous drizzle of olive oil and mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
- Bake the Sauce:
- Transfer the sauce mixture to an oven-proof dish.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. This step helps to meld the flavors together and slightly thicken the sauce.
- Cook the Pasta:
- While the sauce is baking, bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Add 1 teaspoon of salt and a drizzle of olive oil to the boiling water to season the pasta and prevent it from sticking.
- Add 500 grams of pasta nests to the boiling water and cook for 10 minutes, or until al dente. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- After 25 minutes, remove the sauce from the oven.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and mix everything very well, ensuring that the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Final Assembly and Baking:
- Sprinkle some parsley to taste over the pasta mixture for a fresh, vibrant flavor.
- Top the pasta with the remaining 100 grams of grated mozzarella cheese.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Serve the pasta hot, garnished with extra parsley if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as gouda, fontina, or cheddar for a unique flavor.
- Vegetable Additions: Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
- Protein Options: Include cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken for a heartier dish.
- Herb Enhancements: Fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary can be added to the sauce or sprinkled on top before serving for extra aroma and taste.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Tomato Sauce: Rich in vitamins C and K, and antioxidants like lycopene, which is beneficial for heart health.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Provides calcium and protein, essential for bone health and muscle function.
- Parmesan Cheese: A good source of calcium and adds a rich, umami flavor to the dish.
- Olive Oil: Contains healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, promoting heart health.
This baked pasta recipe is a perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors that are sure to please everyone at the table. The baked sauce adds depth and richness, while the final bake with the mozzarella topping creates a deliciously gooey and satisfying dish. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this pasta dish is sure to become a favorite.
Share Your Experience:
I hope you enjoy making and eating this irresistible baked pasta. Share this recipe with friends and family, and let me know how it turned out for you. If you have any favorite variations or tips, I’d love to hear about them. Enjoy this delicious and comforting meal, and see you in the next recipe adventure!
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