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.
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 to taste Salt
- •to taste to taste Chopped green onions (for garnish)
- •to taste 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.
Time: 12 min - 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.
Time: 7 min - 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.
Time: 1 min - 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.
Time: 10 min - 5.
Stir in the diced smoked turkey breast, grated carrot, and heavy cream. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
Time: 3 min - 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.
Time: 3 min - 7.
Place the hot, drained pasta in a large serving dish and pour the creamy sauce generously over the top.
Time: 1 min - 8.
Garnish immediately with a sprinkle of fresh chopped green onions and a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve while steaming hot!
Time: 1 min
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.
Recipe from TheCookbook.ai
Created by Marcel A.