This is my go-to recipe for potlucks and meal trains! People rave about it every time.
Pasta al Forno, or baked pasta, is a classic Italian dish that embodies the heartiness and rich flavors of Italian cuisine. This dish combines pasta, savory tomato sauce, Italian sausage, and an indulgent layer of cheese, all baked to perfection. Pasta al Forno is not only delicious but also a versatile meal, perfect for family dinners, gatherings, and celebrations. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into every aspect of this beloved dish, from its ingredients and preparation methods to its cultural significance and variations.
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Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rigatoni pasta | 1 lb |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Yellow onion, diced | 1 |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Italian sausage | 1 lb |
| Tomato puree | 1 (1 lb) can |
| Salt | 1 ½ teaspoons |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Mozzarella cheese, shredded | 2 ½ cups, divided |
| Parmesan cheese, shredded | ½ cup |
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta
- Boil the Pasta: Cook the rigatoni pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant.
Cook the Italian Sausage
- Brown the Sausage: Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through.
Add the Tomato Sauce
- Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the tomato puree, salt, pepper, and oregano. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Assemble the Pasta Dish
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
- Layer the Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the cooked rigatoni pasta, followed by half of the tomato sauce mixture, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers.
Bake the Pasta
- Initial Baking: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Final Touches: Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the Pasta al Forno from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, if desired.
