Pasta al forno (Penne Pasticciate)
Indulge in the sumptuous flavors of Pasta al Forno, also known as Penne Pasticciate, as we delve into the heart of this Italian culinary delight. Pasta al Forno, translating to "baked pasta" in English, is a beloved dish that embodies the soul of traditional Italian comfort food. The name "Penne Pasticciate" emphasizes the essence of pasta that's been "made a mess of," creatively combined and baked to create a harmonious medley of flavors and textures.
This delectable dish typically features penne pasta, a tubular-shaped pasta that's perfect for holding and absorbing sauces. What sets Pasta al Forno apart is its preparation, where cooked pasta is combined with a rich, flavorful sauce, often infused with ingredients like ground meat, vegetables, and a generous amount of cheese. This marriage of pasta and sauce is then baked to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify, resulting in a tantalizing blend of tastes and textures.
Penne Pasticciate is a canvas of creativity for Italian chefs and home cooks alike. The sauce can vary greatly, from a hearty Bolognese to a creamy béchamel sauce, and sometimes a combination of both. The choice of cheese, too, adds its unique imprint - Parmesan, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses can transform the dish's character. Vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or roasted peppers often make delightful additions, enhancing the nutritional profile and adding layers of complexity to the flavor.
The process of baking the assembled dish not only ensures that the pasta absorbs the sauce but also adds a delightful crust on top, creating a textural contrast between the creamy, moist interior and the crispy exterior. It's a marriage of textures that elevates the entire dining experience, making each bite a culinary revelation.
In Italy, Pasta al Forno holds a special place in family gatherings and celebratory meals. It's a dish often shared among loved ones, a symbol of togetherness and hearty feasting. From cozy Sunday family dinners to festive gatherings, Pasta al Forno graces tables with its comforting presence, delivering both nostalgia and anticipation for the delightful flavors within.
One of the key delights of this dish is its adaptability. Cooks can tailor the ingredients to suit personal tastes and dietary preferences. For those seeking a vegetarian option, omitting the meat and incorporating a medley of vegetables can create a satisfying alternative. For the adventurous palate, experimenting with different cheeses or even incorporating a spicy kick with chili flakes can provide an exciting twist.
Not only is Pasta al Forno a feast for the taste buds, but it also appeals to the eyes. When the dish emerges from the oven, bubbling and golden brown on top, it exudes a tempting aroma that beckons everyone to gather around the table. It's a dish that demands attention, a centerpiece that promises a delightful culinary journey with each serving.
In a nutshell, Pasta al Forno, also known as Penne Pasticciate, is the ultimate Italian comfort food—a beloved classic that never fails to enchant taste buds and warm hearts across the globe. Its simple, versatile, and comforting flavors make it a go-to dish for any gathering. So, dive into the delicious world of baked pasta and let this Italian masterpiece make your taste buds dance with joy!
Ingredients
- turkey breast - 510g
- bacon - 10 slice (115g)
- penne pasta - 3 cup (420g)
- red pepper - 1 pepper (114g)
- garlic - 5 clove (15g)
- extra virgin olive oil - 3 tbsp (40.5g)
- canned tomatoes - 3 can (570g)
- whipping cream - 1 cup, fluid (238g)
- mozzarella - 2 cup, shredded (224g)
- parmesan - 56.7g
- sea salt - 2 tsp (12g)
- black pepper - 0.5 tsp, ground (1.2g)
- oregano - 1 tsp, ground (1.8g)
- basil - 10 leaves (5g)
Cooking steps
1.) In a sizzling hot pan, we drizzle some extra virgin olive oil and add tender turkey or chicken breast and the tantalizing bacon. If you're feeling adventurous, swap the bacon for guanciale, pancetta, or succulent pork breast. The flavors will have your taste buds doing a happy dance!
2.) Once the meat takes on a golden hue, toss in finely chopped garlic and diced red peppers. The kitchen will soon be filled with the delightful aroma of sizzling flavors!
3.) We sauté all the ingredients for 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld. Then, we introduce the tomato cans and 2 glasses of water. A pinch of salt and a sprinkle of oregano and basil join the party. Now, let it simmer on medium heat for 30 minutes, allowing the magic to happen!
4.) While the sauce is simmering, we get another pot going. One gallon of water with a tablespoon of salt, and we bring it to a boil for our pasta. The kitchen is bustling with culinary excitement!
5.) When the water added to the sauce has reduced, we pour in the whipping cream and gently toss in the penne pasta. Let them mingle on low heat for a minute. In this recipe, I've opted for Gran Cucina, but you can easily substitute it with regular cream. Flexibility at its finest!
6.) We transfer the pasta to a baking dish, in case the frying pan doesn't fit in the oven. On top, we generously sprinkle the grated mozzarella and parmesan. It's the finishing touch that will make your dish a cheesy, gooey masterpiece!
7.) We pop the dish into the oven, baking the pasta for 10 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit, or until the grated parmesan on top turns into a beautiful golden hue. The anticipation is building for that perfect, slightly crispy cheesy layer!
