Irresistible Broiled Italian Pasta Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers

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by Molly white

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There’s nothing quite like the tantalizing aroma of Broiled Italian Pasta wafting through your kitchen, making your taste buds dance with excitement. Picture this: a comforting dish layered with gooey cheese, vibrant tomatoes, and a symphony of Italian herbs that sing to your soul. It’s a love letter to your senses, and trust me, every forkful will have you reminiscing about sun-soaked days in Italy.

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Now, I can’t help but flash back to family gatherings where Grandma would whip up her famous pasta dish. It was always the star of the show, stealing hearts (and stomachs) with its cheesy goodness. This Broiled Italian Pasta is perfect for cozy nights in or when you want to impress guests without breaking a sweat. pepperoni stromboli The anticipation builds as it bakes to bubbly perfection, promising a flavor explosion that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Broiled Italian Pasta is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
  • The rich flavors blend beautifully, creating a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist.
  • Its colorful presentation makes it visually appealing for any dinner table setting.
  • Plus, you can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it versatile for any occasion!

Ingredients for Broiled Italian Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Pasta: Choose your favorite type; penne or rotini works great for holding sauces.
  • Marinara Sauce: A good quality sauce adds depth; homemade is fabulous if you have time.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella provides that irresistible melted goodness.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a sharp finish and enhances flavors.
  • Fresh Basil: Use fresh basil leaves for maximum flavor and aroma; they add a lovely touch.
  • Italian Seasoning: A mix of dried herbs like oregano and thyme elevates the dish beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Broiled Italian Pasta

How to Make Broiled Italian Pasta

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray so your pasta won’t stick like an ex who just won’t leave.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil salted water in a large pot. Add your pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. You want it firm enough to hold its shape but soft enough that it doesn’t require dental work afterward.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta with marinara sauce, half of the mozzarella cheese, and most of the fresh basil. Stir well until everything is coated in saucy goodness.

Step 4: Layer the Dish

Transfer your pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese like you’re building a cheesy fortress.

Step 5: Broil Away

Place the baking dish in the oven on high broil for about 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it because we want deliciousness, not burnt offerings!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and sprinkle additional fresh basil over the top as a finishing touch. Transfer servings onto plates and watch everyone’s faces light up with joy!

And there you have it! Your very own Broiled Italian Pasta ready to be devoured! Enjoy every cheesy bite as laughter fills your dining room because let’s face it, food tastes better when shared with loved ones (and maybe even accompanied by some classic Italian tunes). Buon appetito!

You Must Know

  • This delightful broiled Italian pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience.
  • The blend of flavors and textures will transport you straight to a cozy trattoria.
  • Plus, it’s super simple to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta until al dente while prepping your sauce. Broil the sauce with fresh ingredients, then combine everything for an explosion of flavor. This sequence ensures each component shines through while saving you precious time in the kitchen.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the pasta type or add seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers. Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or Parmesan for a unique twist. Don’t hesitate to sprinkle in your favorite herbs to make this dish truly yours!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, ensuring that delicious broiled topping stays crispy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To achieve perfect broiled Italian pasta, remember to use high-quality ingredients for maximum flavor impact.
  • Avoid overcooking your pasta; it should be just firm enough to hold its shape.
  • Finally, let your dish rest for a few minutes before serving for optimal texture.

Sometimes I think my family loves my broiled Italian pasta more than they love me! I remember one dinner where everyone went back for seconds and I didn’t even have leftovers!

FAQs :

What ingredients are needed for Broiled Italian Pasta?

To make delicious Broiled Italian Pasta, you will need pasta of your choice, such as penne or fusilli, along with marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and a variety of Italian herbs. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for extra flavor. vegetable lasagna Ground meat like beef or sausage can enhance the dish as well. Don’t forget to have some olive oil on hand for drizzling before broiling. This combination of ingredients creates a rich and savory flavor profile that everyone will love.

How long does it take to prepare Broiled Italian Pasta?

Preparing Broiled Italian Pasta typically takes about 15 minutes for initial prep work, including cooking the pasta and mixing in the sauce and other ingredients. Once combined, you’ll need to broil the dish for about 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Overall, you can expect the entire process to take around 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick yet satisfying meal option for busy weeknights or any occasion.

Can I customize my Broiled Italian Pasta recipe?

Absolutely! One of the best aspects of Broiled Italian Pasta is its versatility. Feel free to swap out traditional ingredients for your favorites. You can use gluten-free pasta if necessary or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb option. Additionally, consider adding different cheeses like provolone or parmesan for varied flavors. You can also toss in cooked chicken or shrimp to boost protein content. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor this dish to suit your taste preferences. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta recipe.

Is Broiled Italian Pasta suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Broiled Italian Pasta is an excellent choice for meal prep! You can prepare a large batch in advance and store it in individual portions in airtight containers. Simply cook the pasta and mix all ingredients before broiling. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, just reheat it in the oven until warmed through and slightly crispy on top. pizza enchiladas This makes it a convenient option for lunches or dinners throughout the week while still retaining its delicious flavor profile.

Conclusion for Broiled Italian Pasta :

In conclusion, Broiled Italian Pasta is a delightful dish that combines ease of preparation with rich flavors. By using simple ingredients like pasta, marinara sauce, and cheese, you create a comforting meal that pleases everyone at the table. With options for customization and suitability for meal prep, this recipe stands out as both versatile and practical. seafood pasta recipe Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this hearty dish promises satisfaction every time you serve it. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this tasty treat!

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Broiled Italian Pasta


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  • Author: Clare Schmidt
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Dive into the comforting flavors of Broiled Italian Pasta, where al dente pasta meets rich marinara sauce and layers of gooey melted cheese. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, offering a satisfying meal that brings the essence of Italy right to your table.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking dish with nonstick spray.
  2. Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, half of the mozzarella, and most of the fresh basil. Mix until well coated.
  4. Transfer the mixture to the baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  5. Broil on high for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  6. Garnish with remaining fresh basil before serving.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 750mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

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