Baked pasta is a go-to comfort food and this version, with penne and four cheeses, has the added attraction of being fancy enough for guests. Made in a springform pan, it is unmolded and makes a statement on the buffet or dinner table.
3/4dry pint (213 g)red or orange cherry or grape tomatoes,halved
Preparation:
Use the 1 tablespoon of butter to thoroughly coat the bottom and insides of a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan. Dust pan with 1/2 cup (50 g) of Parmigiano cheese all over.
Melt the remaining 1/4 cup (58 g) of butter in a medium sized pot over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux and cook for about 2 minutes to remove raw taste, then slowly whisk in milk. Bring to a simmer, whisking often, and cook for about 10 minutes or until white sauce has thickened and shows whisk marks. Still over heat add grated Havarti and 1 cup (100 g) Parmigiano and whisk until melted and smooth. Whisk in egg and season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and keep warm.
Position rack in center of oven. Preheat oven to 375°F/190°
Bring a large pot with 5 quarts (4.7 L) of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente; drain and transfer to a large mixing bowl. Add warm cheese sauce, baby spinach or arugula and 1/4 cup (8 g) parsley to pasta and stir to combine. Stir in cottage cheese, feta and tomatoes. Pack mixture into prepared pan. Sprinkle reserved 1/2 cup (50 g) Parmigiano evenly on top.
Bake pasta for about 30 to 35 minutes or until top is golden brown and a bit crispy. Let rest at least 20 minutes before unmolding. Sprinkle with reserved 1/4 cup (8 g) parsley, cut into wedges and serve. Pasta may be served warm or at room temperature. Refrigerate leftovers well wrapped in plastic wrap and reheat in microwave, if desired.
Notes:
If You Can Tolerate
Fructans: If you have passed the fructan wheat Challenge, feel free to use traditional penne pasta and regular all-purpose flour.
Lactose: If you can tolerate lactose you may use regular whole milk and cottage cheese.
Nutrition Facts
Four Cheese Baked Penne with Greens & Tomatoes
Amount Per Serving
Calories 574Calories from Fat 243
% Daily Value*
Fat 27g42%
Sodium 449mg19%
Carbohydrates 56g19%
Fiber 3g12%
Sugar 9g10%
Protein 29g58%
Calcium 4mg0%
Iron 0.2mg1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.