Description
Smokey halloumi pasta bake blends Mediterranean flavors with comforting pasta goodness. Cheese lovers will savor the rich, golden layers of grilled halloumi melting into a hearty, herb-infused sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 300 grams (10.6 ounces) dried pasta
- 250 grams (8.8 ounces) halloumi cheese, cubed
- 160 grams (5.6 ounces) mature cheddar cheese, grated
- 800 grams (28.2 ounces) canned chopped tomatoes
Vegetables and Aromatics:
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 large zucchini, cubed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Oils and Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for greasing
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Ignite the oven to 200C (390F), ensuring a hot environment for the pasta bake’s transformation.
- Immerse pasta in salted water, cooking for 5 minutes until slightly underdone. Drain and set aside, preserving a hint of firmness.
- In a skillet, warm oil and sauté onions and garlic with a sprinkle of paprika, releasing aromatic flavors for 1 minute.
- Introduce zucchini and halloumi to the pan, allowing them to caramelize and develop a golden exterior over 3-5 minutes.
- Pour in tomatoes and pepper, creating a vibrant sauce that bubbles with intensity. Gently fold the partially cooked pasta into the mixture.
- Transfer the robust combination to a greased roasting pan, spreading evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
- Generously crown the dish with cheddar cheese and a final dusting of paprika, promising a crispy, flavorful finish.
- Slide the pan into the preheated oven, baking for 10 minutes until the cheese melts and forms enticing golden bubbles.
Notes
- Boost Flavor Experiment with smoked paprika or chipotle powder to intensify the smoky undertones and create a more complex taste profile.
- Cheese Alternatives Swap halloumi with feta or plant-based cheese for dietary restrictions, ensuring similar texture and saltiness.
- Veggie Flexibility Customize the dish by adding roasted bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to increase nutritional value and provide extra depth.
- Make-Ahead Magic Prepare the pasta bake in advance and refrigerate, allowing flavors to meld. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to baking time when cooking from cold.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 577
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg