Pasta with cheese and ham baked in the oven
Baked Pasta with Cheese and Ham
Who doesn't love a delicious serving of pasta? They are not only quick to prepare but also extremely versatile. The recipe I will share with you today transforms a simple plate of pasta into an absolute delight: baked pasta with cheese and ham, a combination of flavors that will please the taste buds of the whole family. Moreover, this recipe is an excellent choice for those days when time is limited, but the desire to enjoy a tasty dish is limitless.
Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 400 g pasta (preferably penne or fusilli)
- 150 g ham (preferably fried ham)
- 200 g cheese (grated)
- 200 g sour cream
- 2 eggs
- 50 g butter
- salt (to taste)
- pepper (to taste)
- a little fresh parsley (for decoration)
- 1 garlic clove (optional, for added flavor)
Brief History
Pasta has a long and fascinating history, with deep roots in world culinary culture. Over time, it has evolved and adapted according to regions and available ingredients. The combination of pasta with cheese and ham is a classic that brings together flavors loved by many and evokes a sense of comfort and familiarity.
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Boiling the Pasta
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add salt, making sure it is enough to season the pasta. It is important to use salted water, as this will influence the flavor of the pasta.
- Add the pasta and boil according to the package instructions until al dente. This means the pasta should be cooked but still have a slight firmness when bitten.
2. Draining the Pasta
- Once the pasta is cooked, pour it into a colander to drain the water. It is essential not to rinse it with cold water, as this can remove the starch needed to bind the sauce.
3. Preparing the Dish
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F). In a baking dish, add the butter and grease the interior well so that the pasta does not stick.
4. Browning the Ham
- Cut the ham into cubes. In a pan, add a little butter (if desired, for a richer taste) and brown the ham cubes until they become slightly crispy. This will enhance the flavor of the ham and add a pleasant texture to the dish.
5. Mixing the Ingredients
- In the dish with pasta, add the browned ham. Sprinkle half of the grated cheese over the pasta and mix well so that the ingredients combine perfectly.
6. Preparing the Egg Mixture
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs together with the sour cream, salt, pepper, and, if desired, a crushed garlic clove. The egg mixture should become homogeneous, and the garlic flavor will add an extra touch of savor.
7. Final Assembly
- Pour the egg mixture over the pasta and gently mix to evenly distribute the composition. Now is the time to add the rest of the grated cheese on top.
8. Baking
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the surface becomes golden and crispy.
9. Serving
- After removing the dish from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a fresh and vibrant look.
Serving Suggestions
This baked pasta with cheese and ham is excellent served as is, but you can accompany it with a crisp green salad or grilled vegetables for a balanced meal. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine or freshly squeezed tomato juice can perfectly complement this dish.
Possible Variations
- Vegetarian: Replace the ham with vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for a healthier option.
- Various Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or mozzarella, to create a unique flavor.
- Spices: Add spices like oregano, basil, or chili for an extra flavor boost.
Nutritional Information
This baked pasta with cheese and ham recipe may contain approximately 600 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used. It provides a good source of carbohydrates from the pasta, protein from the eggs and ham, as well as healthy fats from the sour cream and cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use whole grain pasta?
Yes, whole grain pasta is a healthy option, providing more fiber and nutrients.
- How long can I keep leftovers?
Pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Can I freeze the pasta?
It is recommended not to freeze baked pasta, but you can prepare the mixture and freeze it before baking.
Conclusion
Baked pasta with cheese and ham is a perfect choice for a quick and delicious meal that will bring joy to your tables. With a little attention to detail and a few simple ingredients, you will create a dish that will surely become a favorite among your loved ones. So, put on your apron, turn on the oven, and let’s enjoy cooking!
The pasta is boiled in salted water, then drained in a colander. A heat-resistant dish is greased with butter and the pasta is placed in the dish. The ham is cut into cubes and lightly browned in butter, then added over the pasta. Half of the grated cheese is added and mixed in. The eggs are beaten together with salt, pepper, and sour cream and this mixture is poured over the pasta. The remaining cheese is grated on top and the dish is placed in the oven for 20-25 minutes. That's it, simple, quick, and good.
Ingredients: 400 g pasta, 150 g ham, 200 g cheese, 200 g sour cream, 2 eggs, 50 g butter, salt, pepper, a little green parsley, 1 clove of garlic
