Ready in: 1 hour · Serves: 6-8 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Quick Answer
This Stanley Tucci Pasta Casserole is a creamy, flavorful dish that's perfect for cozy holiday gatherings, bringing warmth and comfort to your table.
As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp in New York City, thoughts of cozy family gatherings come to mind. With Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner, it's the perfect time to whip up comforting and hearty dishes that bring loved ones together. One such dish that I've recently fallen in love with is the Stanley Tucci Pasta Casserole. This recipe has a delightful mix of flavors and textures that make it stand out. Let me guide you through this warm and satisfying pasta dish that's bound to impress your guests this holiday season.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for cozy family gatherings during the holiday season.
- A delightful mix of flavors and textures that will impress your guests.
- Easy to prepare in advance and bake just before serving.
- Rich, creamy, and comforting-a true crowd-pleaser.
- Can be customized with additional vegetables for added nutrition.
Ingredients
This Stanley Tucci Pasta Casserole requires a selection of fresh and flavorful ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound of short pasta (cavatappi recommended)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How to Make Stanley Tucci Pasta Casserole (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to create a warm and satisfying dish that's perfect for any gathering:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it's bubbling, add 1 pound of short pasta. Cook until al dente, typically about 2 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain and set aside, making sure not to rinse to help the sauce adhere.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle the olive oil. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. The warm scent will fill your kitchen! Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Stir in the red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper, allowing it to simmer for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors beautifully.
Step 4: Combine with Cream
Once the sauce has thickened slightly, stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and the cooked pasta. The mixture will transform into a rich and creamy delight; you can already taste the deliciousness!
Step 5: Transfer to the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish and top with the shredded mozzarella cheese, letting it blanket the dish.
Step 6: Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. The sight of the melted cheese and bubbling sauce is absolutely enticing!
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Not Properly Salting the Water: Salting your pasta water is crucial for flavor; it should taste like the sea.
- Skipping the Rest Time: Giving the casserole a few minutes to sit after baking allows it to set and makes serving easier.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Ensure that you grease the baking dish well to prevent sticking.
- Mix the cheeses thoroughly into the pasta for an even cheesy flavor throughout.
- Let the casserole cool slightly after baking to allow for easier serving.
- Experiment with using different cheese blends for unique flavor profiles.
Variations
- Mix in some fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms for added nutrition.
- Substitute a different type of pasta, such as penne or fusilli, based on your preference.
- Use vegan cream and cheese alternatives for a plant-based version.
- Incorporate cooked Italian sausage or ground beef for a heartier dish.
How to Serve
- Pair it with a simple side salad for a fresh contrast.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and fresh basil on top for presentation.
- Consider a glass of red wine to complement the flavors of the casserole.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and bake it just before serving.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven for best results to maintain the perfect cheesy topping.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
What I love most about this recipe is how it brings a touch of home and nostalgia to gatherings, reminiscent of one-pot meals that create lasting memories. Each time I make it, I find myself savoring the moments shared over a hearty meal, and it always feels like a hug on a plate. This dish truly exemplifies comfort food at its finest!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 8 · Serving Size: 1 cup
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~550 calories · 20g protein · 60g carbs · 25g fat
Recipe by:
Creamy Stanley Tucci Pasta Casserole for Holidays
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add 1 pound of short pasta. Cook until al dente, typically about 2 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain and set aside, making sure not to rinse to help the sauce adhere.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle the olive oil. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Stir in the red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper, allowing it to simmer for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors beautifully.
- Once the sauce has thickened slightly, stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and the cooked pasta. The mixture will transform into a rich and creamy delight!
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish and top with the shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness before serving.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this casserole?
Yes! While cavatappi is recommended for its texture, you can use other short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rotini.
2. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make the casserole vegetarian, simply omit any meat and consider adding more vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, for added flavor and nutrition.
3. Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving for a quick and convenient meal.
