Baked pasta is a rich and flavorful dish, beloved throughout Italy and especially renowned in its Pugliese version. This dish, with its irresistible golden crust and soft, stringy heart, represents a true symbol of home cooking in this region. Let’s discover together how to prepare Pugliese baked pasta, bringing a touch of tradition and taste to the table.
Ingredients for 4 people
To prepare Pugliese baked pasta, you will need:
- 400 g of short pasta (preferably orecchiette or ziti)
- 300 g of meat sauce (preferably with lamb or beef)
- 200 g of mozzarella or smoked scamorza, diced
- 100 g of grated Parmigiano Reggiano
- 3 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg
Step-by-Step Procedure
- Preparation of the Ragù: Start by preparing a rich and flavorful ragù. Use quality meat and let it cook slowly for at least two hours, so all the flavors blend perfectly.
- Cooking the Pasta: Cook the pasta in plenty of salted water, draining it al dente. Remember that the pasta will continue cooking in the oven, so it is essential not to overcook it.
- Assembling the Dish: In a baking dish, alternate layers of pasta, ragù, pieces of mozzarella, slices of hard-boiled eggs, and a sprinkling of Parmigiano and nutmeg. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a generous handful of Parmigiano.
- Baking: Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 20-30 minutes, until the surface becomes golden and crispy.
Tips for a Perfect Dish
- Quality of Ingredients: Choose high-quality ingredients, especially for the ragù and cheeses. The difference will be felt in the final taste of the dish.
- Personalization: Do not hesitate to customize the recipe according to your tastes. Some add peas or mushrooms for an extra touch of freshness and flavor.
- Presentation: Serve the baked pasta hot, possibly accompanied by a glass of robust red wine, like a Primitivo di Manduria.
Conclusion
Pugliese baked pasta is a dish that encapsulates the history, tradition, and warmth of Puglia. Perfect for a family lunch or a dinner with friends, this recipe is a surefire success. It will not only delight the palate but also bring a piece of the sunny and welcoming land that is Puglia. Buon appetito!
