Introduction to Baked Tortiglioni
The Allure of Baked Pasta Dishes
Baked pasta dishes hold a special place in the hearts of food lovers around the world, embodying the essence of comfort food. The magic of these dishes lies in their simplicity and the transformation of everyday ingredients into a sumptuous meal. The process of baking pasta in the oven, combined with sauce, cheese, and various other ingredients, results in a dish that is both hearty and comforting. The top layer crisps to a golden brown, hiding beneath it pasta that has absorbed the flavors of the sauce, becoming tender and delicious. This method of cooking not only enhances the texture but also deepens the flavors, creating a meal that is satisfying on every level.
Brief Overview of Tortiglioni as a Pasta Choice
Tortiglioni, with its ridges and hollow shape, is an ideal choice for baked pasta dishes. This type of pasta is designed to hold onto sauces, ensuring that every bite is full of flavor. The ridges catch and hold the sauce, while the tube-like shape allows the sauce and cheese to fill the center, creating a delightful texture contrast. Tortiglioni's robust structure ensures it remains al dente, even after baking, providing a satisfying chew that is the hallmark of a well-made pasta dish. Its versatility makes it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike, serving as the perfect canvas for a wide range of ingredients, from rich and creamy sauces to hearty meat and vegetable mixtures.
Baked Tortiglioni with Italian Sausage and Creamy Ricotta Recipe
Serves: 5-6
Ingredients:
Pasta & Sauce:
- 600g/21oz Tortiglioni Pasta
- 500g/17.7oz Italian Sausage, casing removed
- 1 Onion, diced
- 2 (400g/14oz each) Jars Napoletana Sauce
- 1 Tin (400g/14oz) Diced Tomatoes (Polpa)
- 2 Tsp Italian Seasoning
- 1/2 Tsp Fennel Seed
- 1/2 Cup (125ml) Water
Ricotta Mixture:
- 600g/21oz Ricotta
- 2 Tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped
- 1 Egg
Cheese:
- 400g/14oz Shredded Mozzarella
- 30g/1.05oz Parmesan Cheese, plus extra for topping
Method:
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 190°C/375°F.
Pasta Cooking:
- Cook the Tortiglioni pasta in salted boiling water but leave it slightly undercooked.
Sauce Cooking:
- In a large skillet, cook the crumbled sausage and onions together until the sausage is no longer pink.
- Add Italian seasoning, fennel seed, Napoletana sauce, water, and diced tomatoes. Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes.
Ricotta Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta, egg, parsley, half of the shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
Assembling the Dish:
- Mix the tomato sauce with the cooked pasta.
- Spread half of the pasta mixture on the base of your baking dish.
- Top with large spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture.
- Add the remaining pasta mixture.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella, extra Parmesan cheese, and some chopped fresh parsley on top. Finish with freshly ground pepper.
Baking:
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour or until the cheese is melted and golden on top.
Enjoy! 😊
This hearty and comforting baked Tortiglioni dish combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage with creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella, all enveloped in a savory tomato sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering, this recipe is sure to delight everyone at the table with its delicious layers and melted cheese topping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute Tortiglioni with another pasta?
Yes, you can substitute Tortiglioni with similar pasta shapes like Rigatoni, Penne, or Ziti. The goal is to use a pasta that can hold the sauce well, ensuring each bite is flavorful.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, you can omit the Italian sausage and add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You might also consider using a meat substitute that mimics the texture and flavor of sausage.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. If baking from cold, you may need to add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time. Alternatively, you can bake it, let it cool, then refrigerate and reheat when ready to serve.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until thoroughly warmed. The dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
While canned tomatoes provide convenience and consistent flavor, you can use fresh tomatoes. You'll need to peel, seed, and chop them. Consider that fresh tomatoes may require a longer cooking time to break down into a sauce.
What can I serve with this baked pasta?
This baked pasta pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. For a complete Italian-themed dinner, consider starting with an antipasto platter.
