Teresa's Recipes
Gratin de Pâtes
Experience the ultimate comfort food with Gratin de Pâtes—a classic French baked pasta dish that envelops perfectly al dente pasta in a velvety cheese sauce. Topped with a glorious layer of golden-brown Gruyère cheese, each bite offers a delightful contrast between the creamy interior and the crunchy exterior. This dish reflects France's culinary love affair with cheese and is a staple in many French households, often served during family gatherings or cozy dinners. With its rich flavors and inviting aroma, Gratin de Pâtes is sure to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces (such as penne or macaroni) Pasta
- 3 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 1 medium, finely chopped Onion
- 2 cloves, minced Garlic
- 3 tablespoons All-purpose flour
- 2 cups (whole milk recommended) Milk
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon Paprika
- 1 cup, grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup, grated (plus more for topping if desired) Gruyère cheese
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 6
- Dish Type: Main Course
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Carbs: 40g
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 5g
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large pot, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly, and cook for 1 minute to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Continue to cook until the sauce has thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the salt, black pepper, grated Parmesan cheese, paprika, dried parsley, and dried oregano until well combined.
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, mixing until the pasta is fully coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Top the pasta with the grated Gruyère cheese, ensuring an even layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding cooked vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to the pasta mixture.
- You can also substitute some of the Gruyère cheese with a stronger cheese like aged cheddar for a more robust taste.
- For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese before baking.