Baked Pasta with Asparagus Recipe
Description:
Indulge in the delightful flavors of fresh asparagus with this tantalizing Baked Pasta with Asparagus recipe, straight out of the treasure trove of 100 Pasta Sauce Recipes. This dish is a harmonious blend of tender asparagus, creamy ricotta cheese, and savory Parmesan, creating a symphony of flavors that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Serve it alongside some crusty bread and a crisp salad for a complete and satisfying meal that will leave you craving for more. 🍝🌿
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 14 | Penne pasta |
| 2 | Asparagus bunches |
| 4 | Tablespoons butter |
| – | Ricotta cheese |
| – | Olive oil |
| 10 | Tablespoons Parmesan cheese |
| 1 | Egg |
| 4 | Eggs |
| 3 | Chicken stock |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 943.6
- Fat: 50.2g
- Saturated Fat: 27.6g
- Cholesterol: 263.1mg
- Sodium: 786.8mg
- Carbohydrates: 92.1g
- Fiber: 15.5g
- Sugar: 3.6g
- Protein: 37.1g
Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Instructions:
-
Prepare Asparagus:
- Begin by washing the asparagus thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities.
- Trim off any tough stalks from the asparagus spears and cut them into short lengths, ensuring they are uniform in size.
- Optionally, you can split the asparagus lengthwise for easier cooking.
-
Cook Asparagus:
- In a large skillet, melt about 3 tablespoons of butter over low heat.
- Add the prepared asparagus to the skillet and cook gently for approximately 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- To prevent the asparagus from drying out, periodically add a splash of chicken stock to keep it moist.
- Season the cooked asparagus with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Prepare Pasta and Cheese Mixture:
- While the asparagus is cooking, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions, but only for half of the recommended time.
- Drain the partially cooked pasta and immediately toss it in the remaining butter and half of the Parmesan cheese until evenly coated.
-
Assemble the Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a deep oven dish with butter.
- Begin assembling the dish by creating a thin layer of cooked pasta at the bottom of the prepared dish.
- Follow with a layer of cooked asparagus, then another layer of pasta, and finally, a layer of ricotta cheese mixture.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ensuring to finish with a layer of pasta on top.
-
Prepare Egg Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, beat together the eggs and the remaining Parmesan cheese until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the assembled pasta dish, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
-
Bake:
- Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper over the top of the dish for added flavor.
- Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Serve the Baked Pasta with Asparagus hot, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Pair with some crusty bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal experience that is sure to delight your palate.
Cook’s Tip: For a touch of indulgence, consider adding some crispy bacon or pancetta to the dish for added depth of flavor.
This Baked Pasta with Asparagus recipe is a true celebration of seasonal produce and simple yet flavorful ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering with loved ones. With its creamy texture, vibrant colors, and irresistible taste, this dish is guaranteed to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s embark on a culinary journey that promises to tantalize your taste buds and satisfy your soul! 🌟🍽️
