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Crispy Cheesy Pasta Al Forno

A comforting and indulgent pasta dish with a crispy top and creamy interior, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 650
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Sauce Base
  • 300 grams pasta, preferred shape Elicoidali, pasta di Gragnano Choose a shape that captures the sauce beautifully.
  • 400 grams San Marzano tomatoes These juicy tomatoes bring a rich flavor.
  • 150 grams passata Adds a smooth texture to the sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (evo oil) Enhances the flavor of the dish.
  • 1 small onion, minced Provides a savory foundation.
  • 1 clove garlic, whole Infuses the sauce with warmth.
  • Salt & pepper to taste Salt & pepper to taste Essential seasonings.
  • a few basil leaves Adds a fragrant herbal note.
Cheeses
  • 250 grams fresh mozzarella, in small cubes Creates a gooey texture.
  • 40 grams Parmigiano, grated Adds sharpness and depth.
  • 2 tablespoons ricotta Contributes to the richness.
  • a sprinkle Italian-style breadcrumbs Adds crunch on top.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a cast pan, heat 2 tablespoons of evo oil over medium heat. Add minced onions and whole garlic clove. Sauté until the onions are soft, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add crushed San Marzano tomatoes and passata to the pan. Season with salt and pepper. Let simmer on low heat for 20 minutes, partially covered. Add basil leaves near the end and remove garlic clove.
  3. In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until half the recommended time on the package. Drain and place in a large bowl.
Combining
  1. Toss the pasta with the tomato sauce, reserving a ladle of sauce for the baking pan.
  2. Add ricotta to the pasta and mix gently, then fold in most of the Parmigiano and mozzarella. Toss well to combine.
Baking
  1. Pour the reserved ladle of sauce into the baking pan. Transfer the dressed pasta and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmigiano. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and finish with evo oil.
  2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and top is golden. Broil for 1-2 minutes for extra crunch.
Serving
  1. Remove from oven and serve warm.

Notes

Use high-quality ingredients for better flavor. Consider adding crushed red pepper flakes for a kick or fresh herbs for added aroma. Customize with different cheeses.