Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound fieno pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Gruyere cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Fontina cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Medium saucepan for making cheese sauce
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook fieno pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in milk and continue to cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in salt, black pepper, nutmeg, Parmesan cheese, Gruyere cheese, and Fontina cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Add cooked fieno pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
7. Pour mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
8. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the top of the pasta.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
10. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 450
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 43g
Protein: 21g
Sodium: 800mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Fieno pasta can be substituted with any other type of pasta.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano cheese.
- Gruyere cheese can be substituted with Emmental cheese.
- Fontina cheese can be substituted with Gouda cheese.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or pancetta to the pasta before baking.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the cheese sauce.
- Use different types of cheese for a different flavor profile.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn't become mushy when baked.
- Use a whisk to ensure the cheese sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives over the top before serving.
Pairings:
Serve with a green salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
Garlic bread or crusty bread.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk until desired consistency is reached.
Food safety advice:
Be sure to cook the pasta and cheese sauce to the appropriate temperature to ensure food safety.
Food history:
Fieno Formaggio Gratin is a classic Italian dish that originated in the northern region of Lombardy.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, cheesy, nutty.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as a main dish for dinner or as a side dish for a larger meal.
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Region: Italian