Grandmother’s Secret Pasta Dish: A Family Favorite Dinner Recipe

Passed down through generations, this recipe is a beloved classic in our family and has been perfected over the years. It’s easy, quick, and incredibly delicious—a dish that brings everyone to the table. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients like eggs, pasta, cheese, and fresh vegetables, it’s a one-pan wonder that packs a ton of flavor. The best part? You can customize it to suit your taste preferences or make it vegetarian-friendly. Let’s dive into this culinary masterpiece!

Ingredients

  • 100 g (3.5 oz) boiled pasta
  • 5 eggs
  • Salt, to taste
  • 1 bunch green onions, chopped
  • 1 bunch parsley, chopped
  • 1 tomato, chopped
  • 100 g (3.5 oz) hard cheese, grated
  • 2-3 tbsp (30-45 g) sour cream
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1 jar canned green peas (400 g / 14 oz)

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, gather and prepare all the ingredients as listed. This includes chopping the green onions, parsley, and tomato, grating the cheese, and draining the canned green peas. Having everything prepped and ready to go will streamline the cooking process.

2. Boil the Pasta

In a pot, cook 100 g of pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture—firm but not too soft. This is crucial, as the pasta will continue to cook when mixed with the egg mixture later. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

3. Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, crack the 5 eggs and add a pinch of salt. Beat the eggs until the yolks and whites are fully incorporated and smooth. Next, add the chopped green onions, parsley, diced tomato, and 2-3 tablespoons of sour cream. Mix everything together until well combined. The fresh herbs, tomatoes, and sour cream will add richness and flavor to the dish.

4. Cook the Pasta in the Pan

  • Heat a bit of vegetable oil in a large, non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  • Once the oil is hot, add the cooked pasta to the pan, spreading it out evenly.
  • Pour the prepared egg mixture over the pasta, making sure it covers the entire surface.
  • Cover the skillet with a lid and cook over low heat for 15 minutes. This allows the egg mixture to set and cook through gently without burning.

5. Add Peas and Cheese

Once the egg mixture has mostly set, it’s time to add the green peas and cheese:

  • Mash the canned green peas slightly with a fork before spreading them evenly over the top of the pasta.
  • Sprinkle the grated hard cheese over the peas.

Cover the pan again and continue to cook for another 7-10 minutes on low heat, or until the cheese is fully melted and gooey.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once the cheese has melted, remove the pan from the heat. Garnish the dish with some extra chopped parsley for a burst of freshness. Divide the casserole into portions and serve immediately while it’s still hot.

This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner, and the combination of creamy eggs, savory cheese, and fresh herbs will have everyone reaching for seconds!

Why This Recipe Rocks

1. Time-Saving

There’s no need to wait for the oven to preheat or spend hours cooking—this dish comes together quickly on the stovetop. In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal ready to serve.

2. Versatility

This recipe is highly adaptable. You can easily swap out ingredients or add extras like meat or more vegetables depending on what you have on hand. It’s a great way to clear out the fridge and create something delicious.

3. One-Pan Wonder

Fewer dishes mean less cleanup! Everything is cooked in one pan, making it a hassle-free recipe perfect for busy weeknights.

4. Family Favorite

This dish is a crowd-pleaser and works well for picky eaters and adventurous foodies alike. Its comforting, familiar flavors make it perfect for any occasion.

Cooking Tips

1. Cook Pasta Al Dente

Make sure to cook the pasta until it’s just al dente (firm to the bite). The pasta will continue to cook in the pan with the egg mixture, so you don’t want it to become too soft.

2. Distribute Ingredients Evenly

When adding the egg mixture, peas, and cheese, ensure that they are spread evenly across the pan. This guarantees that each bite is packed with flavor.

3. Cover While Cooking

Covering the pan while cooking is essential to trap heat and ensure even cooking. This helps the eggs set without burning the bottom of the dish.

4. Use Fresh Ingredients

For the best flavor, opt for fresh herbs and vegetables. Fresh parsley and green onions add a bright, vibrant taste to the dish.

Flavor Variations

1. Meat Lover’s Delight

If you prefer a heartier dish, add cooked bacon, chicken, or ground beef into the mix. Brown the meat separately and stir it in with the pasta before pouring the egg mixture.

2. Vegetarian Twist

For a veggie-packed version, load the dish with additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Sauté the vegetables briefly before adding them to the egg mixture.

3. Spice It Up

If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or drizzle on a bit of hot sauce to add a fiery kick to the dish.

4. Creamy Dreamy

For an extra creamy texture, you can mix in a dollop of cream cheese or ricotta along with the egg mixture. This adds a rich, velvety texture to the dish.

5. Cheese Galore

Experiment with different types of cheese to vary the flavor. Try mozzarella for a milder, gooey finish, or cheddar for a sharp, tangy flavor. You can also sprinkle some feta for a Mediterranean twist.

Why Bake Every Day?

Baking or cooking dishes like this can become a daily habit for a number of reasons:

  • Stress Relief: The act of cooking or baking can be a soothing, stress-relieving activity that helps you unwind after a long day.
  • Creativity: Recipes like this allow you to get creative in the kitchen, playing around with ingredients and flavors to suit your preferences.
  • Bonding Time: Cooking for or with loved ones is a great way to bring people together and enjoy quality time in the kitchen.
  • Homemade Goodness: By cooking at home, you control the ingredients, ensuring that your family is eating healthy, delicious meals made with love.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Protein: 17 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Sugar: 4 g

This recipe is a timeless family classic that’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy everyone around the table. Simple ingredients, bold flavors, and the flexibility to customize make this a must-try dish that will quickly become a staple in your home.

Join the Made By Emily Community!

Join the Emily newsletter to get exclusive recipes, tips and more!

You have Successfully Subscribed!

Pin It on Pinterest