Baked penne with ham and cheese

Penne with Ham and Cheese Bake

If you're looking for a quick and tasty recipe, penne with ham and cheese bake is the perfect choice! This recipe combines the perfect texture of pasta with the freshness of melted cheeses, resulting in a delicious dish ideal for a family dinner or a meal with friends. Let's explore the steps to create a dish that will delight any food lover.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 250 g penne (half a bag)
- 250 g ham (choose a quality ham, preferably smoked for a more intense flavor)
- 100 g cow's telemea cheese (you can also use feta for a saltier taste)
- 200 g cheese (opt for a cheese with a good flavor, such as smoked cheese)
- 200 ml tomato juice (you can also use fresh tomatoes for a more vibrant taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Olive oil (to grease the dish)

A Brief History
Baked pasta is a classic dish that has won the hearts of many over time. Regardless of culinary culture, the combination of pasta with cheese and meat has always been appreciated for its versatility. This simple recipe for penne with ham and cheese pays homage to these traditions, making it perfect for family meals or evenings spent with friends.

Step by Step

1. Boil the pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil, adding a tablespoon of salt. When the water starts to boil, add the penne. Cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8-10 minutes. Make sure the pasta is al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Once done, drain well and set aside.

2. Prepare the ingredients: Meanwhile, use a grater to grate the telemea and cheese. Choose a fine grater to get thin shreds that will melt evenly. Cut the ham into small cubes, ensuring they are of equal size for even cooking.

3. Assemble the dish: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking dish with olive oil. Add half of the penne to the prepared dish. Over this, sprinkle half of the grated cheese and telemea, then add the ham cubes. Now, add the remaining pasta, followed by the tomato juice, which you can season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Finishing the dish: Spread the remaining cheese and telemea on top. This layer will create a golden and appetizing crust during baking.

5. Baking: Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheeses on top are completely melted and starting to brown. This will add a delicious caramelized flavor.

6. Serving: Once the dish is ready, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. You can serve the penne with a fresh green salad for a refreshing contrast or with a side of grilled vegetables.

Practical Tips
- Ingredients: Choose quality ingredients, as the taste of the dish will depend on them. If you want to add extra flavor, you can add spices like oregano or basil to the tomato juice.
- Variations: If you want to transform this recipe, you can add vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, which will bring extra nutrients and flavor. You can also replace the ham with cooked chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Calories and Nutritional Benefits: This recipe offers a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. A serving contains approximately 500-600 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Pasta is an excellent source of energy, while cheeses provide protein and calcium.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use whole grain pasta? Yes, whole grain pasta would be an excellent choice to add fiber.
- Can I freeze the penne with ham and cheese? Yes, you can freeze the dish before baking. Make sure to cover it well. When you want to serve it, let it thaw and bake according to the instructions.

This baked penne with ham and cheese recipe is not only simple and quick but also extremely versatile. I encourage you to experiment with the ingredients and add your personal touch. Enjoy!