PASTA AL FORNO

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) pasta (such as penne, rigatoni, or ziti)
• 2 cups (480ml) marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup (240ml) béchamel sauce (see recipe below)
• 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: cooked Italian sausage, ground beef, or diced vegetables

Béchamel Sauce Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (480ml) milk
• Salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste

Instructions:

Prepare Béchamel Sauce:

1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Once melted, add the flour and whisk constantly until the mixture is smooth and bubbly, about 2 minutes.
3. Gradually add the milk to the butter-flour mixture, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
4. Cook the sauce, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.

Prepare Pasta:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish or casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and return the pasta to the pot.

Assemble Pasta al Forno:

1. In the pot with the cooked pasta, add the marinara sauce and béchamel sauce. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce.
2. If using, stir in cooked Italian sausage, ground beef, or diced vegetables at this stage.
3. Spread half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the grated Parmesan cheese and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta.
4. Repeat with the remaining pasta mixture and cheeses, creating layers.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
6. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and let the pasta al forno rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serve:

1. Slice into portions and serve hot. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
2. Enjoy your delicious pasta al forno!

This baked pasta dish is hearty, comforting, and perfect for serving to family and friends. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy the rich flavors of this classic Italian dish!