No Boil Baked Penne Pasta alla Vodka with Peas

Baked Penne Pasta alla Vodka with Peas Recipe from Italy

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 55 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

No Boil Baked Penne Pasta alla Vodka with Peas is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the flavors of creamy vodka sauce, tender pasta, sweet peas, and savory steak. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on the classic Italian dish Pasta alla Vodka. Traditionally, Pasta alla Vodka is made by simmering pasta in a creamy tomato and vodka sauce. In this version, we skip the boiling step and bake the pasta in the sauce, making it a convenient and time-saving option for busy cooks.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) of uncooked penne pasta
4 cups of vodka sauce
10 oz (283 g) of frozen peas, thawed
1 lb (454 g) of fully cooked ham steak, cut into cubes
2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
14.5 oz (411 g) of chicken broth
0.33 cup of grated parmesan cheese

How to prepare

In a bowl, stir together penne, 3 cups of sauce, peas, ham, mozzarella, and broth.
Turn out the mixture into a glass baking dish.
Spoon the remaining sauce over the top.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
Remove the plastic wrap from the dish and stir the penne mixture.
Cover the dish with foil.
Bake the dish covered for 30 minutes.
Uncover the dish and sprinkle parmesan over the top.
Bake the dish uncovered for 25 minutes or until the penne is tender and the top is golden brown.
Let the dish stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Variations

Substitute the steak with chicken or shrimp for a different flavor.
Add roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for extra nutrition.
Use a different type of cheese, such as cheddar or gouda, for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Thaw the peas before adding them to the dish to ensure even cooking.

- Use fully cooked steak to save time and add a hearty flavor to the dish.

- Make sure to cover the dish with foil while baking to prevent the top from burning.

- Let the dish stand for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the pasta in the sauce allows the flavors to meld together and creates a creamy and delicious dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of pasta you have on hand, such as rigatoni or spaghetti.

- Substitute the vodka sauce with marinara sauce for a different flavor profile.

- Use any type of cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella or provolone.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare this dish the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Simply bake it the next day for a quick and easy meal.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this dish in individual ramekins for a fancy presentation, or in a large baking dish for a family-style meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a glass of red wine, such as a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, for a perfect combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of No Boil Baked Penne Pasta alla Vodka with Peas contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of No Boil Baked Penne Pasta alla Vodka with Peas contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this dish contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of this dish contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and wheat (pasta), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

This dish is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious option for a family dinner.

Summary

No Boil Baked Penne Pasta alla Vodka with Peas is a delicious and convenient dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering. With a creamy vodka sauce, tender pasta, sweet peas, and savory steak, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for No Boil Baked Penne Pasta alla Vodka with Peas. It was a warm summer day, and I was browsing through an old cookbook that I had picked up at a yard sale. As I flipped through the pages, a faded photo caught my eye – a bubbling dish of cheesy pasta with bright green peas peeking out from the creamy sauce.

Intrigued, I read through the recipe, noting the unique method of baking the pasta without boiling it first. It seemed like a time-saving and convenient way to make a delicious and hearty meal. I decided to give it a try, adding my own twist with a splash of vodka for a bit of extra flavor.

As I gathered the ingredients and preheated the oven, memories of my past cooking adventures flooded back to me. I learned to cook from my mother, who was a wonderful cook herself. She taught me the basics of making simple, comforting meals that always brought our family together around the dinner table.

Over the years, I honed my skills in the kitchen, experimenting with different recipes and techniques. I learned how to make traditional dishes from my Italian grandmother, who passed down her love of cooking and her secret family recipes to me. I also picked up tips and tricks from friends, neighbors, and even strangers I met along the way.

One of my favorite things about cooking is the way it connects people and cultures. Each dish tells a story, reflecting the history and traditions of the people who created it. I love exploring new flavors and ingredients, discovering the unique and diverse ways that people around the world nourish themselves and their loved ones.

As I assembled the layers of penne pasta, creamy vodka sauce, and sweet peas in a baking dish, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. The aroma of garlic, onions, and tomatoes simmering on the stove filled the kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

When the dish finally emerged from the oven, golden and bubbling, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special. The pasta was perfectly cooked, tender and al dente, with just the right amount of creamy sauce clinging to each piece. The peas added a pop of color and freshness, balancing out the richness of the dish.

I couldn't wait to share my creation with my family and friends. As we sat down to dinner that evening, everyone dug into the No Boil Baked Penne Pasta alla Vodka with Peas with gusto. The flavors were a hit, and the dish disappeared in no time, leaving everyone satisfied and content.

Since that day, the recipe has become a staple in my cooking repertoire. I've made it for countless gatherings and special occasions, always receiving rave reviews and requests for the recipe. It's a dish that never fails to impress, with its comforting flavors and satisfying textures.

As I look back on that fateful day when I first discovered the recipe for No Boil Baked Penne Pasta alla Vodka with Peas, I can't help but feel grateful for the joy and fulfillment that cooking has brought into my life. It's a creative outlet, a way to express myself and share my love with others. And it's a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to nourish body and soul, and to create lasting memories that will be cherished for years to come.