Gaúcho-Style Pasta (Macarrão Cremoso)
A quick and creamy Brazilian pasta dish, perfect for a family lunch. The secret to its velvety richness is a traditional roux base, combined with smoked turkey, carrots, and a luxurious cream sauce.
by Marcel A.Ingredients
- •1 lb Pasta (your favorite pasta, about 500g)
- •2 tbsp Butter (or margarine)
- •2 tbsp All-purpose flour
- •1 piece Medium onion (finely chopped)
- •2 cup Whole milk
- •1 cup Heavy cream (creme de leite)
- •1 cup Smoked turkey breast (diced)
- •1 cup Grated carrot
- •to taste Salt
- •to taste Chopped green onions (for garnish)
- •to taste Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Instructions
- 1
Cook your chosen pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- 2
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and stir constantly for about 1 minute. This will lightly 'toast' the flour and create a roux, but avoid letting it brown too much.
- 4
Gradually pour in the whole milk, a little at a time, whisking vigorously and constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Continue stirring until the sauce begins to thicken into a smooth béchamel consistency, about 5-10 minutes.
- 5
Stir in the diced smoked turkey breast, grated carrot, and heavy cream. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- 6
Season the sauce with salt to taste. Heat the sauce through, ensuring it is piping hot, but avoid bringing it to a full boil once the heavy cream has been added, as this can cause it to separate.
- 7
Place the hot, drained pasta in a large serving dish and pour the creamy sauce generously over the top.
- 8
Garnish immediately with a sprinkle of fresh chopped green onions and a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve while steaming hot!
Chef's Tips
- 💡If smoked turkey breast isn't available, diced ham or even leftover shredded roast chicken are excellent substitutes.
- 💡For an extra rich flavor, you can add a pinch of nutmeg to the béchamel sauce.
- 💡Ensure your pasta is still hot when you combine it with the sauce for the best texture and to prevent the sauce from cooling too quickly.
Want to make it your own?
Create a personalized version with AI - no account needed
Reviews (0)
You Might Also Like
Quinoa Greek Salad
A vibrant and refreshing Greek salad elevated with protein-rich quinoa and hearty garbanzo beans. This salad features crisp vegetables, briny Kalamata olives, creamy feta, and a bright lemon-herb dressing, making it a satisfying and healthy meal.
Frijoles Puercos del Sur del Estado de México
Una auténtica delicia del sur del Estado de México, estos frijoles puercos combinan la riqueza del chorizo, el toque picante de las rajas, la salinidad de las aceitunas y la textura única de cubos de queso añejo. Son perfectos como guarnición sustanciosa o como plato principal ligero con tortillas.
Express Umami Ramen Broth
A lightning-fast, flavor-packed ramen broth that comes together in 15 minutes using umami-rich ingredients like bouillon, soy sauce, mirin, sesame oil, and miso paste for a quick weeknight meal.
Hummus-Crusted Salmon with Togarashi & Lemon
Flaky salmon fillets baked under a savory hummus crust, seasoned with aromatic Japanese Shichimi Togarashi and brightened with fresh lemon. A simple yet elegant main course.
Bresaola with Lemon, Olive Oil, and Parmigiano
Thin slices of bresaola (cured beef) dressed with fresh lemon juice, high-quality extra virgin olive oil, and delicate shavings of Parmigiano-Reggiano, creating a light yet intensely flavorful Italian appetizer.
One-Pot Zucchini and Tomato Pasta with Fresh Herbs
A vibrant and comforting one-pot pasta dish featuring tender zucchini, sweet cherry tomatoes, and aromatic fresh herbs, all cooked together for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.