Intro:
Cooking can bring comfort and warmth to your home, especially when the dish is as hearty and delicious as this Potato Pasta Bake. Perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends, this recipe combines the creaminess of potatoes with the savory goodness of pasta, all baked to golden perfection. It’s a delightful dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Potato Pasta Bake
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 cups of your favorite pasta, such as penne or rigatoni
– 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup of milk
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon of onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. In a large pot of boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute to make a roux.
4. Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
6. Add the sliced potatoes to the creamy sauce and let them simmer for about 10 minutes or until slightly softened.
7. Gently fold in the cooked pasta, making sure everything is well coated in the creamy sauce.
8. Pour the potato and pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
9. Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese on top, covering the entire surface of the dish.
10. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
11. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
12. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Serve this Potato Pasta Bake hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that will surely become a favorite in your home. Enjoy sharing this delightful recipe with your loved ones for a cozy and delicious meal!