Pasticcio of tortelli with cream, Parmesan cheese, and culatello

The dish is essentially made up of three components: tortelli, cream, and culatello. Tortelli refers to a type of Italian pasta that is similar to ravioli. The pasta is made of flour, water, and eggs, and it is typically stuffed with ingredients like cheese, meat, or vegetables. In this dish, we will be using tortelli stuffed with ham and cheese to add more flavor to the dish.

The next component is cream. Cream is a dairy product that is made by separating milk fats from milk. The cream is then used to add richness and depth to the dish. In this recipe, we will be using heavy cream to create a silky-smooth texture that will coat the pasta and make it even more delicious.

The final component of this dish is culatello. Culatello is a type of cured meat that is made from the hind leg of a pig. This meat is known for its intense flavor and aroma, and it is often used in Italian cuisine to add another dimension to a dish. In this recipe, we will be using culatello to add a smoky, savory flavor that complements the cream and pasta.

To make the pasticcio of tortelli with cream, Parmesan cheese, and culatello, start by preheating the oven to 375°F. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortelli according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it comes to a simmer. Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it has thickened, stirring occasionally.

In a baking dish, spread a layer of the cream sauce on the bottom. Sprinkle a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese over the cream sauce. Add a layer of the tortelli over the cheese, and then add a layer of thinly sliced culatello.

Repeat the layering process with more cream sauce, Parmesan cheese, tortelli, and culatello until all the ingredients are used up. Make sure you finish with a layer of cream sauce and Parmesan cheese on top.

Bake the pasticcio in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until it is hot and bubbly and the Parmesan cheese has melted and turned golden brown.

Let the pasticcio cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired.

In conclusion, pasticcio of tortelli with cream, Parmesan cheese, and culatello is a dish that you should definitely try if you love Italian cuisine. The mix of flavors and textures is delightfully complex, and it’s a great way to impress your guests at your next dinner party. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of pasta, cheese, and meats to create your own version of this classic dish. Buon appetito!