Pasta al Forno
Pasta al Forno, also known as baked pasta, is a classic Italian dish that is both comforting and versatile. It is a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for feeding a crowd or for enjoying as leftovers. The dish typically consists of cooked pasta mixed with a rich and flavorful sauce, such as tomato or bechamel, and then baked in the oven until bubbly and golden on top.
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
1 hr 15 mins
Total Time:
1 hr 35 mins
Servings:
12
Yield:
2 9x13-inch baking dishes
Ingredients
Directions
Step 1
Heat olive oil in a skillet over low heat. Add onions and cook slowly until moisture has evaporated but onions are not dark brown, about 5 minutes. Add ground beef and bacon. Increase heat to medium-high and cook, stirring frequently, until meat is browned and crumbly, 5 to 7 minutes.
Step 2
Pour wine into the skillet and cook until evaporated, 1 to 3 minutes. Add chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Fill tomato paste can with water and pour in. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook sauce, uncovered, until oil no longer appears on the surface, about 30 minutes. Add sugar and salt; cook and stir until dissolved, about 3 minutes more.
Step 3
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta at a boil for about 5 minutes; drain and rinse with cold water. Return pasta to the pot and add a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 4
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease two 9x13-inch baking dishes.
Step 5
Add about 1 cup sauce and 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese to the pot with the cooked pasta.
Step 6
Spoon a thin layer of pasta into each prepared baking dish. Top each with a thin layer of provolone and mozzarella cheeses. Add sauce. Repeat layers with remaining pasta, cheeses, and sauce; finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Step 7
Bake in the preheated oven until hot and melted, 30 to 45 minutes.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
366
Calories
13g
Fat
42g
Carbs
19g
Protein
Complement
One of the most appealing aspects of Pasta al Forno is its adaptability. It can be made with a variety of pasta shapes, from traditional penne or rigatoni to more unique options like orecchiette or fusilli. The sauce can also be customized to suit different tastes, with options for adding vegetables, ground meat, or even seafood. Additionally, the dish can be topped with a variety of cheeses, such as mozzarella, Parmesan, or ricotta, to create a deliciously gooey and indulgent final product. Whether it's served as a comforting weeknight dinner or as the star of a special occasion meal, Pasta al Forno is a timeless Italian favorite that is sure to please any crowd.
