Rigatoni, Cheese & Pea Casserole (Pasticcio di Rigatoni e Piselli)

(from largomason’s recipe box)

Make Ahead Tip: Prepare through Step 4. The pasta mixture will keep, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup fine dry breadcrumbs, divided
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups low-fat milk, heated
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • salt & freshly ground pepper to taste
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 10-ounce package frozen peas, thawed
  • 1 pound whole-wheat rigatoni or ziti
  • 1 cup shredded fontina cheese
  • 2 tablespoons freshly grated parmesan cheese

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Coat a 3-quart baking dish with cooking spray. Coat dish with 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, tapping out the excess. Put a pot of water on to boil for cooking pasta.

  2. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a heavy medium saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and cook, whisking constantly, for 1 to 2 minutes. Add hot milk and bring to a simmer, whisking, until smooth and slightly thickened, 3 to 4 minutes. Add nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer to a bowl; set aside to cool.

  3. Heat remaining 1 tablespoon oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add peas and cook for 4 minutes longer. Season with salt and pepper. Add to the milk mixture.

  4. Meanwhile, cook rigatoni (or ziti) in boiling salted water until al dente, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and rinse well. Toss with reserved sauce and vegetables. Stir in fontina.

  5. Spoon the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Mix remaining 1/4 cup breadcrumbs and Parmesan in a small bowl. Sprinkle evenly over the pasta.

  6. Bake pasta until golden and bubbly, 30 to 45 minutes. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

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