Fontina and Mascarpone Baked Pasta
Try this Fontina and Mascarpone Baked Pasta recipe
Try this Fontina and Mascarpone Baked Pasta recipe
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- cooking spray
- salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small garlic clove minced
- 1 pound medium pasta shells uncooked (penne or other similar shaped pasta works too)
- 3 cups skim milk
- 1 3/4 cups (6 ounces) shredded fontina cheese
- 1/4 cup (2 ounces) shredded parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup (2 ounces) mascarpone cheese
- 8 ounces sliced mushrooms (i use baby bellas)
- 1 tablespoon butter (i use light butter)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Carbohydrate 43.8086042705785 g
- Cholesterol 43.2278037625 mg
- Fat 1.91848118911191 g
- Fiber 0.464981250969897 g
- Protein 10.9512865071572 g
- Saturated Fat 0.389872746778852 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (191g)
- Sodium 745.327252131528 mg
- Sugar 43.3436230196086 g
- Trans Fat 0.52586238611343 g
- Calories 239 calories
Step-by-step
- Cook pasta according to package directions, drain and keep warm.
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Combine flour and milk in a large sauce pan over medium heat, stirring constantly with a whisk, and cook for about 10 minutes or until mixture starts to thicken.
- Meanwhile, in a nonstick skillet sprayed with cooking spray, saute mushrooms, with a pinch of salt, until softened (about 5 to 7 minutes). Add 1 clove of minced garlic in the last minute, if desired.
- Remove milk mixture from heat and add cheeses, whisking until mixture is smooth. Add salt and pepper, to taste.
- Add cooked pasta and mushrooms, stirring to coat and combine.
- Spray a 13x9-inch baking pan with cooking spray and pour pasta mixture into pan.
- Meanwhile, melt butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
- Remove from heat and add breadcrumbs, stirring to coat.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs over pasta mixture.
- Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, or until bubbly.
- Sprinkle with parsley and serve.
A Busy Mom's Secret Weapon: Creamy Fontina and Mascarpone Baked Pasta
Life as a working mom is a whirlwind. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and making sure everyone gets fed, finding time for elaborate cooking feels like a luxury. But let's be honest, a delicious, comforting meal is essential for keeping the sanity levels up. That's where this Fontina and Mascarpone Baked Pasta comes in. It's quick, easy, and impressive enough to serve to guests (or just yourself after a long day!). This isn't just pasta; it’s a hug in a bowl, a testament to the fact that even amidst chaos, you can create something truly special.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. No complicated techniques or obscure ingredients are required. I usually grab the ingredients during my weekly grocery run; everything is readily available at any supermarket. The creamy sauce, a luscious blend of Fontina and Mascarpone cheeses, is the star of the show. It clings perfectly to the pasta, creating a rich and satisfying texture that will leave everyone wanting more. I prefer using penne pasta for its ability to hold the sauce, but any short pasta shape would work perfectly. And the crispy breadcrumbs on top? They provide that much-needed textural contrast, adding a delightful crunch to each bite. It's a complete meal in itself, but feel free to add a side salad for an even healthier option. This baked pasta is flexible; you can adapt it to whatever you have on hand. Feel free to experiment with different mushrooms or add some sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavour.
This recipe is more than just a meal; it's a reminder to prioritize simple joys. In the whirlwind of daily life, taking the time to create something delicious for yourself and your loved ones is a small act of self-care, a way to slow down and appreciate the everyday moments. The aroma of garlic and cheese filling your kitchen is a balm to the soul, a quiet moment of peace amidst the storm. So, next time you find yourself short on time and energy, remember this recipe. It’s a testament to the fact that even amidst the chaos, you can still create something delicious and satisfying, without sacrificing valuable time or effort.
Beyond the Recipe: This dish is perfect for meal prepping. Assemble the components ahead of time and bake it when ready. Its comforting taste also makes it ideal for colder evenings, when a warm, hearty meal is just what the family needs. So, embrace the simplicity, enjoy the flavour, and relish in those small moments of culinary joy. The beauty lies in the making as much as in the eating. Remember that small acts of self-care and nourishment are essential for maintaining a balanced life – especially for busy women juggling many responsibilities. Let this pasta be your little slice of heaven, a well-deserved treat at the end of a long day.
Tips and Variations: Feel free to experiment! Add some cooked chicken or Italian sausage for extra protein. Different cheeses can be substituted depending on preferences; provolone or mozzarella could be great options too. Adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before baking provides a little kick for spice lovers. Don't be afraid to experiment with herbs, too – fresh basil or oregano would be a wonderful addition.
Serving Suggestions: A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette or some crusty bread perfectly complements this dish. For a more decadent option, serve it with a glass of crisp white wine. Enjoy!
The Simplicity of Delicious: This Fontina and Mascarpone Baked Pasta isn't just a recipe; it’s a philosophy. A philosophy that celebrates simplicity, ease, and the power of delicious food to bring comfort and joy. It's a reminder that even amidst the complexities of modern life, we can still find time to create something nourishing and satisfying for ourselves and our loved ones. It’s about embracing the ease of cooking without compromising on flavour. It’s about savouring those moments of culinary creation and sharing the joy with those you love. It's about appreciating the simplicity of a truly delicious meal, and acknowledging that sometimes, the best things are the simplest. So go ahead, give this recipe a try. You deserve it.
