anelletti al forno recipe

Anelletti al forno is an Italian dish consisting of small ring-shaped pasta, typically baked in the oven with a tomato sauce and cheese. The pasta used for anelletti is similar in shape to small rings or donuts, which gives the dish its name (“anelletti” means “little rings” in Italian).

To make anelletti al forno, the pasta is first boiled until it’s partially cooked, then mixed with a tomato-based sauce, often including ingredients like ground meat, peas, onions, and sometimes hard-boiled eggs. The mixture is then placed in a baking dish, topped with cheese (usually Parmesan or mozzarella), and baked until the pasta is fully cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbly. It’s a delicious and comforting baked pasta dish that’s popular in Sicilian cuisine.

anelletti al forno ahead of time

you can make anelletti al forno ahead of time. It’s a great dish for preparing in advance, especially if you want to save time on a busy day or for a special occasion. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Prepare the Anelletti: Cook the anelletti pasta until it’s slightly undercooked, usually a minute or two less than the package instructions. Drain it and set it aside.
2. Make the Sauce: Prepare the tomato sauce and any other ingredients you plan to include in your anelletti al forno, such as ground meat, peas, and onions. Cook the meat and vegetables, and then mix them with the tomato sauce.
3. Assemble the Dish: Combine the partially cooked anelletti pasta with the sauce and other ingredients in a baking dish as you would for the final dish.
4. Cool and Refrigerate: Allow the assembled anelletti al forno to cool to room temperature. Then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it.
5. Baking: When you’re ready to serve, preheat your oven and remove the dish from the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes to take the chill off.
6. Bake: Bake the anelletti al forno in the preheated oven until it’s heated through, and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly. This will take about 30-40 minutes at around 350°F (175°C).

By following these steps, you can prepare most of the dish ahead of time, which can be very convenient for a stress-free meal preparation. Just make sure to adjust the baking time if the dish is coming straight from the refrigerator to ensure it’s heated through.

ingredients typically used to make anelletti al forno

For the Pasta:

• 12 ounces (about 340 grams) anelletti pasta (or a similar small pasta shape)
• Salt, for cooking the pasta

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 pound (450 grams) ground beef
• 1/2 pound (225 grams) ground pork
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 can (28 ounces or 800 grams) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Layers:

• 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Additional Ingredients:

• Olive oil for greasing the baking dish
• Breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Please note that these are the traditional ingredients used in anelletti al forno, but you can customize the recipe to your preferences by adjusting the meat, cheese, or other ingredients as desired.

step-by-step guide

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Add the anelletti pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes).
   • Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they become translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
   • Add the ground beef and ground pork to the skillet. Cook, breaking the meat apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through.
   • Pour in the crushed tomatoes and red wine (if using). Stir well to combine.
   • Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste. Add the chopped basil and parsley.
   • Let the sauce simmer for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken. Stir occasionally.
3. Assemble the Dish:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease a large ovenproof baking dish with olive oil.
   • Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the dish.
   • Add a layer of cooked anelletti pasta over the sauce.
   • Top the pasta with some of the sliced hard-boiled eggs, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
   • Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese for a crispy topping.
4. Bake:
   • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dish is bubbling.
5. Serve:
   • Remove the anelletti al forno from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
   • Slice and serve the delicious Sicilian baked pasta hot.

some tips and tricks to help you make the best anelletti al forno

1. Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality ingredients, especially for the meat, tomatoes, and cheeses. Fresh herbs like basil and parsley can make a big difference in flavor.
2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta just until it’s al dente (firm to the bite) since it will continue cooking in the oven. Overcooked pasta can become mushy.
3. Season Well: Season each layer of the dish with salt and pepper to ensure a balanced flavor throughout.
4. Simmer the Sauce: Allow the meat sauce to simmer for a good amount of time (about 20-30 minutes) to develop rich flavors and thicken. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Use Wine Wisely: Red wine can add depth to the sauce, but it’s optional. If you choose to use it, let it cook for a few minutes to allow the alcohol to evaporate.
6. Layer Carefully: When assembling the dish, evenly distribute the ingredients in each layer, ensuring that the pasta, eggs, and cheeses are well distributed.
7. Grease the Baking Dish: Grease the baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
8. Crispy Topping (Optional): If you like a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the final layer of cheese before baking. It adds a nice textural contrast.
9. Cover While Baking: If you notice the top of your dish is browning too quickly during baking, cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing the inside to cook thoroughly.
10. Rest Before Serving: Allow the anelletti al forno to rest for a few minutes after baking. This will help the layers set and make it easier to slice and serve.
11. Customize to Your Taste: Feel free to customize the recipe to your preferences. You can experiment with different meats, cheeses, or even add vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
12. Make Ahead and Freeze: Anelletti al forno is a great make-ahead dish. You can assemble it in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. It also freezes well for longer storage.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making a delicious and satisfying anelletti al forno that your family and friends will love.

various types of meats to make the sauce

1. Ground Beef: Ground beef is a classic choice and adds a hearty and savory flavor to the sauce.
2. Ground Pork: Ground pork can be used alone or in combination with other meats to add richness to the sauce.
3. Ground Veal: Ground veal is another option for a tender and mild-flavored meat sauce.
4. Italian Sausage: Italian sausage, whether mild or spicy, can impart a lot of flavor to the sauce. Remove the casings and crumble the sausage meat into the sauce.
5. Ground Turkey: For a lighter and leaner option, you can use ground turkey instead of beef or pork.
6. Ground Chicken: Ground chicken is another lean option with a mild flavor that works well in a tomato-based sauce.
7. Mixed Meats: You can also combine different types of ground meats for a more complex flavor. A common combination is a mix of ground beef, pork, and veal, known as “triple meat” or “meatloaf mix.”

Remember to brown and cook the meat thoroughly before adding it to the tomato sauce, as this will enhance the flavor of the sauce and ensure that the meat is fully cooked when the dish is baked in the oven. Additionally, you can season the meat with herbs and spices like garlic, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes to enhance the sauce’s taste to your liking.

What can I serve with anelletti al forno?

1. Salad: A fresh and crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing is a great choice. You can use mixed greens, Caesar salad, or a Caprese salad with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
2. Garlic Bread: Serve slices of garlic bread or a baguette with garlic butter alongside the anelletti. It’s perfect for dipping into the sauce.
3. Vegetable Sides: Roasted or steamed vegetables make a healthy and colorful side dish. Broccoli, asparagus, or sautéed spinach are good options.
4. Antipasto Platter: Create an antipasto platter with an assortment of Italian cold cuts, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted slices of bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil make a refreshing and flavorful side.
6. Fruit Salad: A simple fruit salad with fresh seasonal fruits can provide a sweet and refreshing contrast to the savory pasta dish.
7. Grilled or Roasted Chicken: If you’re looking for a protein boost, grilled or roasted chicken breasts or thighs pair nicely with anelletti al forno.

Ultimately, your choice of side dishes can be tailored to your personal preferences and the occasion. Anelletti al forno is a versatile dish, and you can adjust the sides to suit your taste and create a balanced and satisfying meal.

The nutritional content

The nutritional content of a dish like anelletti al forno can vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used in the recipe. However, I can provide you with a general idea of the key nutritional components typically found in a serving of this dish.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary significantly based on variations in recipes and ingredients:

Serving Size: A typical serving of anelletti al forno is around 1 cup (about 240 grams).

Calories: A serving of anelletti al forno can contain approximately 250-350 calories, depending on the ingredients used and portion size.

Protein: It usually contains around 10-15 grams of protein per serving, primarily from the pasta and any meat used in the sauce.

Carbohydrates: Anelletti pasta is a source of carbohydrates, and a serving may provide around 40-50 grams of carbohydrates. This can vary based on the pasta type and any added ingredients like vegetables.

Fat: The dish can contain approximately 5-15 grams of fat per serving, with variations depending on the meat and cheese used.

Fiber: The fiber content is relatively low, typically around 2-4 grams per serving, primarily coming from the pasta.

Sodium: Depending on the ingredients and seasonings used, the sodium content can vary. Pasta dishes like this can sometimes be moderately high in sodium due to added salt and cheese.

Vitamins and Minerals: Anelletti al forno may provide some essential vitamins and minerals depending on the ingredients. Tomatoes in the sauce can contribute vitamins like vitamin C and vitamin A, while cheese can provide calcium.

Keep in mind that these values are general estimates, and the actual nutritional content can vary based on your specific recipe and portion size. If you’re looking to track your nutrition intake more precisely, you may want to calculate the nutritional values based on the exact ingredients and quantities you use.

frequently asked questions (FAQs)

• Where can I find anelletti pasta?
• Anelletti pasta can be found in many well-stocked Italian grocery stores or specialty food stores. You can also purchase them online if you have trouble finding them locally. Alternatively, you can substitute with other small pasta shapes like small rigatoni or ditalini.

• Can I freeze anelletti al forno?
• Anelletti al forno can be frozen successfully. After assembling the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. Again, you may need to adjust the baking time.

• What cheese works best for anelletti al forno?
• A combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese is commonly used for this dish. Mozzarella adds a creamy and melty texture, while Parmesan contributes a savory depth of flavor. You can also experiment with other cheeses like provolone or pecorino for different tastes.

• How do I reheat leftover anelletti al forno?
• To reheat leftover anelletti al forno, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the individual portions or the entire dish in an ovenproof dish or on an oven-safe tray.

You Might Be Interested In

• Garganelli Pasta Recipe
• Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
• Spicy Tofu and Tomato Penne Recipe
• best easy recipes for garlic noodles

anelletti al forno recipe

Serves: 6 Prep Time: 40 min Cooking Time: 1 hour 1 hour

Nutrition facts: 350 calories 20g fat

Rating: 5.0/5

( 1 voted )

Pin

Print

Ingredients

• 14 oz (400g) anelletti pasta (or substitute with any small pasta like elbow macaroni)
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef or pork
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 carrot, finely chopped
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Butter for greasing the baking dish
• Bread crumbs (optional, for topping)

For the Bechamel Sauce:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• A pinch of nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Anelletti Pasta:
   • Cook the anelletti pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until it's al dente, according to the package instructions.
   • Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
   • In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté until they become tender, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
   • Add the ground beef or pork and cook until it's browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
   • Stir in the crushed tomatoes and frozen peas.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Simmer the sauce for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Prepare the Bechamel Sauce:
   • In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Add the flour and whisk constantly for 2-3 minutes to make a roux.
   • Slowly pour in the milk while continuing to whisk to prevent lumps.
   • Cook the sauce, stirring constantly until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Season the bechamel sauce with a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine and Assemble:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Grease a large oven-proof baking dish with butter.
   • Mix the cooked anelletti pasta with the meat sauce and half of the grated cheeses.
   • Pour the pasta mixture into the greased baking dish.
   • Pour the bechamel sauce evenly over the top of the pasta.
   • Sprinkle the remaining grated cheeses on top.
   • If desired, you can also add a thin layer of breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.
5. Bake:
   • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the pasta is bubbling.
6. Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
   • Serve your Anelletti al Forno hot and enjoy your delicious Sicilian baked pasta!

Notes

1. Customize the Meat: Feel free to customize the meat in the recipe. While traditional Anelletti al Forno uses ground beef or pork, you can use a combination of both or even ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
2. Watch the Bechamel Thickness: When making the bechamel sauce, pay attention to its thickness. It should coat the back of a spoon. If it becomes too thick, you can thin it out by adding a bit more milk. If it's too thin, cook it a bit longer until it thickens.
3. Variations: Anelletti al Forno is a versatile dish. You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat sauce for extra flavor and nutrition. Additionally, you can experiment with different cheeses or herbs for a unique twist on the classic recipe.