Pasta cremosa gratinada con requesón

Ingredientes

• 1 large egg
• 1 1/2 cups (170 g)
• 1/2 cup (50 g)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Reserved pasta water (about 1 cup)

Preparación

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta for 1-2 minutes less than package directions (very al dente). Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.

2. 2

   In a blender or food processor, combine cottage cheese, ½ cup of the shredded mozzarella, ¼ cup of the grated Parmesan, and the egg. Blend until completely smooth, about 60 seconds. Scrape down sides as needed.

3. 3

   In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.

4. 4

   Pour marinara sauce into the skillet with the aromatics. Stir in dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer, then remove from heat.

5. 5

   Add the drained pasta and the blended cottage cheese mixture to the skillet. Stir until pasta is evenly coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.

6. 6

   Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and the remaining ¼ cup of grated Parmesan evenly over the top.

7. 7

   Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden. For a crispier top, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching carefully.

8. 8

   Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.