Have you tried making the cheesy Italian Pastina Bake recipe? If you don’t know exactly what pastina is, then this is for you. It is a small-shaped pasta that originated in Italy that is easy to digest and provides a quick energy boost. Therefore, it is full of nutrition and healthy. This Italian and American fusion, combined with the creamy cheese, is not only yummy but will satisfy your stomach too. This can be the perfect meal for you this season for a family dinner or any event. So, let us try this in your kitchen with the list of ingredients and step-by-step instructions below.
Contents
What is so special about the Cheesy Italian Pastina Bake Recipe?
The Cheesy Italian Pastina Bake recipe is quite a straightforward dish. It does not require any rocket science to make this recipe. It can be easily accessible for all. It is a comforting homemade dish that combines pasta and cheese to give you a flavor that is Italian with an American touch. The total preparation for baking can be approximately 30- 40 minutes, which is favorable for busy weeknights. Therefore, it doesn’t require much time to make and is a quick dish.
Cheesy Italian Pastina Bake Ingredients
- 1 cup dry pastina
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Cheesy Italian Pastina Bake Recipe
If you are looking for a timeless Italian comfort dish with an American touch, then you are in the right place. The Cheesy Italian Pastina Bake offers you the temptation that makes it special and enjoyable. It is not difficult to make or understand the recipe. You just require basic culinary skills and that is it. It is easy, quick, and convenient. This Pastina or small pasta, absorbs all the flavors of the sauce and cheese and gives you a nice savory taste of this Italian cum American dish. You can even add vegetables, herbs, or even chicken to make it even more flavorful and richer in taste. For a better understanding of the recipe, you can watch the video above.
Recipe Tips and Notes
- Selection of Pastina: You can choose various shapes of pastina from the store, which could be star-shaped, alphabet-shaped, etc. All of them work well in the recipe. For more information, note down the cooking and baking instructions on the back of the packet.
- Selection of Cheese: For the best cheesy flavor, use good-quality mozzarella cheese. You can also use fresh Parmesan cheese to add cheesy richness.
- Homemade: This recipe is simple and can be prepared with simple ingredients available at home. This homemade recipe can be served fresh once it is prepared to give you an extra cheesy flavor in your mouth.
- Quick Recipe: This is a quick recipe that does not take much time and is ready in just 20 minutes.
- Addition of vegetables: You can make the recipe more nutritious by adding sauteed veggies like spinach, bell peppers, and mushrooms. For protein, you can add cooked chicken, sausage, or beef as well.
Cheesy Italian Pastina Bake Recipe
PREP TIME: 5 MINUTES || COOK TIME: 10 MINUTES || COURSE: MAIN COURSE || CUISINE: ITALIAN – AMERICAN
This Cheesy Italian Pastina Bake Recipe is a simple, quick, and perfect meal for your family members on busy weekdays. Here’s the best recipe to make them.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dry pastina
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to a comforting 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish to prepare for the cheesy magic.
- In a saucepan, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a gentle boil. Stir in the pastina and let it cook to al dente perfection, absorbing the flavorful broth.
- As the pastina becomes tender, reduce the heat to a simmer, and stir in the milk and butter. Let the butter melt and blend with the milk, creating a luscious creaminess.
- Now, it’s time for the American twist! Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses over the pastina, and let them bask in the warmth of the oven.
- Bake the dish for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese reaches a gooey, golden perfection, embracing the pastina in a comforting hug.
- Season to taste with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, adding a burst of flavor that ties it all together.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if you desire an extra touch of freshness.
Nutrition Facts
| Calories | 370kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 34g |
| Protein | 17g |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 11g |
| Cholesterol | 54mg |
| Sodium | 418mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 4g |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Take To Prepare The Cheesy Italian Pastina Bake?
Ans: The preparation time for the dish is about 10-15 minutes, and it bakes in the oven for approximately 20 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal.
Can We Use Different Types Of Cheese In The Recipe?
Ans: Absolutely! While the recipe calls for a blend of mozzarella and cheddar, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gouda or provolone to create your unique flavor profile.
Can I Add Vegetables To The Pastina Bake?
Ans: Yes, you can! To add a touch of freshness and nutrition, consider incorporating diced bell peppers, spinach, or even cherry tomatoes to enhance the dish.
Can I Make A Vegetarian Version Of The Cheesy Pastina Bake?
Ans: Certainly! You can easily substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth or water to make this delightful dish vegetarian-friendly.
What Type Of Pasta Is Pastina?
Ans: Pastina is not a specific pasta shape but a general term used for any small, shaped pasta. It comes in various forms, such as little stars, tubes, tiny macaroni noodles, or shells. Orzo, a rice-shaped pasta, is also considered a type of pastina. Popular pasta brand Barilla offers a variety of tiny star-shaped pasta, traditionally known as “stelline,” which falls under the category of pastina. The term “pastina” does not refer to a single pasta shape, but rather encompasses a range of delightful small pasta options.
What Can I Use Instead Of Pastina?
Ans: Discover delightful alternatives to Ronzoni’s Pastina! If you’re seeking a replacement, consider these fantastic small pasta options:
- Orzo: Versatile rice-shaped pasta, perfect for various dishes.
- Ditalini: Short, tube-like pasta, ideal for soups and salads.
- Farfalle: Charming bow-tie pasta, great for salads and creamy dishes.
- Orecchiette: Unique ear-like pasta, perfect for capturing sauces’ flavors.
- Rotini: Playful spiral pasta, with nooks and crannies for maximum sauce absorption.
While we bid farewell to Pastina, these pasta alternatives are here to dazzle your taste buds! Embrace the variety and savor the magic of these delightful options in your culinary creations.
NICE TO MEET YOU!
Welcome! I’m Sumi, and I have a love for FOOD. Here, we’re all almost the pleasure of homemade delicious recipes.
Have you tried out one of my recipes? Share your culinary creations with us by tagging @eatfreshs on Instagram – I’d love to see your delicious dishes and connect with enthusiasts like you!