Pasta al Forno: A Simple Yet Irresistible Oven-Baked Delight
Introduction:
While lasagna holds a special place in many hearts, its intricate layering can be daunting for home cooks. Enter Pasta al Forno, a delightful alternative that captures the essence of lasagna without the fuss. In this recipe, we’ll explore how to create this comforting oven-baked pasta dish, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 (1 lb) can tomato puree
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 2 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onion for 3-4 minutes, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add Italian sausage to the pot, crumbling and browning it thoroughly. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in tomato puree, salt, pepper, and oregano. Simmer the sauce for 30 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Cook rigatoni in salted water until just shy of al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- Fold slightly undercooked pasta into the sauce, along with 1 ½ cups of mozzarella and half of the reserved pasta water. Adjust consistency with remaining pasta water if needed.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
Conclusion:
Pasta al Forno offers the comforting flavors of lasagna in a simpler, more accessible format. With its hearty filling and layers of cheese and pasta, this dish is sure to become a favorite for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Embrace the warmth and joy of Pasta al Forno, and enjoy its delicious simplicity with every bite.