Eggplant Parmesan Penne Bake

Ingredients:

• 250 gms Penne pasta
• 2 cups Acasa Béchamel sauce
• 1 medium eggplant, sliced into rounds
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook the Penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• Dip the eggplant slices in the beaten eggs, then coat them with a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
• Place the breaded eggplant slices on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
• In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce. Add a layer of cooked Penne pasta, followed by a layer of crispy eggplant slices.
• Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of marinara sauce on top.
• Pour Acasa Béchamel sauce over the top and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese.
• Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Chef Tip: For a touch of freshness, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or basil over the dish before serving. To give the dish a cheesy twist, sprinkle some shredded mozzarella on top of the stuffed shells before baking.

History:

The "Eggplant Parmesan Penne Bake" is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines elements of traditional Eggplant Parmesan with penne pasta, creating a hearty baked casserole. Its history is a fusion of Italian-American cuisine and the classic flavors of Eggplant Parmesan.

1. Origins of Eggplant Parmesan: Eggplant Parmesan, or "Melanzane alla Parmigiana" in Italian, is a classic Italian dish that originated in the southern regions of Italy, particularly in Campania and Sicily. The dish typically consists of sliced eggplant that is breaded, fried until golden and crispy, layered with marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese, and baked until bubbly and golden brown.

2. Adaptation into Pasta Bake: The Eggplant Parmesan Penne Bake likely emerged as a creative adaptation of the traditional Eggplant Parmesan recipe. By incorporating cooked penne pasta into the dish, it transforms into a hearty and satisfying casserole-style meal, perfect for feeding a crowd or for cozy family dinners.

In summary, the Eggplant Parmesan Penne Bake is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of Eggplant Parmesan with penne pasta, creating a hearty and comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion. Its history reflects the evolution of Italian-American cuisine and the enduring popularity of classic comfort foods.