Spicy Baked Pasta Casserole

This Spicy Baked Pasta Casserole is a delightful medley of flavors and textures sure to satisfy your taste buds. Perfect for family dinners, it combines succulent pasta with vibrant vegetables and a creamy, spiced sauce. The golden-brown top, sprinkled with Parmesan, adds a crispy touch that complements the soft interior. The dish boasts a rich taste thanks to the inclusion of aromatic cumin and a hint of garlic. It's a versatile recipe, easily adaptable for different preferences, such as adding a protein of your choice or opting for gluten-free pasta. Ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, it's a hearty meal that doesn't compromise on taste. Not only is it comforting, but also nutritious, offering a balanced mix of carbs, fats, and proteins. Enjoy this casserole hot, straight from the oven, and prepare to be amazed by its deliciousness. Pair it with a fresh salad or a crusty bread, and you've got a perfect meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

250g spiral pasta
450g mixed frozen vegetables
1 bunch spring onions
2 cloves garlic
40g butter
40g flour
0.5 liters milk
50g grated Parmesan cheese

Spices and Seasonings:

Salt
1/2 tsp ground cumin
Pepper

Preparation Time

Total Time: 60 minutes

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until nearly done, as per the package instructions. Add the mixed frozen vegetables 5 minutes before the pasta is cooked. Drain everything through a sieve.
Prepare the Spring Onions: Slice the spring onions into thin rings, including the tender green parts. They add a fresh, aromatic flavor to the dish.
Chop the Garlic: Finely chop the garlic cloves to ensure an even distribution of flavor throughout the casserole.
Make the Roux: Melt the butter in a saucepan. Stir in the flour to form a golden roux, which will act as the thickening agent for the sauce.
Create the Sauce: Gradually add the milk to the roux, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens.
Flavor the Sauce: Incorporate the grated Parmesan cheese, cumin, salt, and pepper into the sauce. Stir until the cheese melts and the spices are well mixed.
Grease the Baking Dish: Lightly grease your casserole dish to prevent sticking and ease of serving.
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (392 degrees Fahrenheit).
Assemble the Casserole: Combine the pasta and vegetables with the sauce making sure everything is coated evenly. Place the mixture into the greased dish.
Bake the Casserole: Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes at 180 degrees Celsius (356 degrees Fahrenheit) until the top is lightly browned.
Serve Hot: Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Bon appétit!

Tips

For a richer flavor, consider adding cooked chicken or sausage.
Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of this casserole.
Add some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra spicy kick.

Nutritions

Calories: 550 per serving (approximately)
Protein: 18g
Fats: 24g
Carbohydrates: 65g

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Add sautéed mushrooms or zucchini.
Dairy-Free: Substitute regular milk with almond or oat milk, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Add Some Meat: Integrate cooked bacon, ham, or shredded rotisserie chicken.

Serving Suggestions

Garnish with chopped parsley or fresh basil for added color and freshness.
Pair with a green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
Serve alongside garlic bread for a complete meal.

Best Places

Sotto - Authentic Italian flavors served with elegance. Location: 116 N 7th St, Grand Rapids, USA.
hug & Punch - Creative takes on classic dishes in a cozy setting. Location: 287 Rattle Rd, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Cafe Creme - A delightful spot for pasta with a twist. Location: Rue de Rivoli, Paris, France.
Tosca - Rustic ambiance, modern Italian cuisine. Location: 50 E St NW, Washington DC, USA.
Trattoria da Pino - Family-run gem with hearty portions. Location: Via delle Botteghe Oscure, Rome, Italy.
Cibo e Vino - Trendy Italian delights in a chic environment. Location: Via del Corso, Milan, Italy.
Little Italy - A homage to traditional Italian cooking. Location: Kensington High Street, London, UK.
Pasta Mama - Bright, vibrant, with a focus on fresh ingredients. Location: 71 Century Ave, Shanghai, China.
Spaghetti House - Casual dining with homemade pastas. Location: Nathan Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong.
Osteria Basilico - Perfect fusion of taste and ambiance. Location: Notting Hill Gate, London, UK.