Pasta ncasciata is a traditional Sicilian eggplant pasta bake featuring crispy eggplant, bolognese sauce and cheese. Perfect for family gatherings and special occasions!

Pasta ncasciata, also called pasta 'ncasciata or pasta incaciata, is a Sicilian eggplant pasta bake originating from Messina, my hometown. 

It's basically a Sicilian version of the classic pasta al forno, combining layers of pasta, fried eggplant cubes, bolognese sauce and ricotta or caciocavallo cheese. 

Growing up in Messina, I've seen many different versions of this classic eggplant baked pasta, and today I'm sharing my mum's recipe, which of course is the clear winner for me. 

You can of course use it as a base and then add some extra ingredients such as sliced hard-boiled eggs or thin slices of cooked ham (prosciutto cotto).

The beauty of this dish is that it calls for a few simple inexpensive ingredients, it's easy to prepare ahead, and freezes beautifully too.

All the good reasons to give it a try, and let it become a new family favorite!

Jump to:

• Ingredients
• How to make Pasta Ncasciata
• Cooking Tips
• Storage
• Recipe

Ingredients

This delicious pasta bake recipe is incredibly easy to make, and all you need is less than 10 ingredients:

• Pasta: I like to use mezzi rigatoni pasta, but penne, tortiglioni, rigatoni will work well. For perfect al dente pasta, opt for bronze-cut pasta (my favorite is pasta from Gragnano), which holds the cooking very well.
• Sauce: I like to use traditional ragu' sauce (bolognese sauce), but for a lighter option I recommend a classic Italian tomato sauce.
• Eggplant: Use firm eggplants, you can pick your favorite, both long dark eggplants and round ones are great for frying.
• Vegetable oil: I fry the eggplant cubes in sunflower oil or olive oil. Other neutral, vegetable oils that work well for frying are peanut or canola oil.
• Cheese: I use Sicilian ricotta salata (salted ricotta) to top the pasta, cacio cavallo, mozzarella or Parmigiano Reggiano are other cheeses that work well.
• Béchamel sauce: This is optional, but I like to add béchamel sauce for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess, and it takes just 5 minutes to make.
  

VARIATIONS

Traditionally, pasta 'ncasciata is topped with grated or cubed caciocavallo. However, ricotta salata, Pecorino cheese, Parmigiano or Grana Padano are great alternatives.

If you skip the béchamel sauce, I recommend adding an extra layer of melty cheese such as mozzarella or provolone cheese.

For a vegetarian version, swap the bolognese sauce with tomato sauce.

For a richer version, add chopped boiled eggs, slices of cooked ham, sliced salami or tiny mortadella cubes.

How to make Pasta Ncasciata

This eggplant pasta bake recipe is ready in 4 simple steps and less than 1 hour.

It's one of those easy Italian recipes that are always a crowd-pleaser and don't require much effort!

Here's a quick recipe overview with step-by-step pictures. Scroll down until the end of the post for the full printable recipe.

STEP 1. Fry the eggplant cubes until golden, then arrange them on kitchen paper to absorb the oil in excess.

STEP 2. Cook the pasta very al dente, then mix it with the bolognese sauce.

STEP 3. Transfer the pasta to a baking dish and mix in the fried eggplant.

STEP 4. Top the pasta 'ncasciata with béchamel sauce and cheese, bake for 20 minutes, then serve.

Cooking Tips

• For frying the eggplant, use a large frying pan to reduce the amount of vegetable oil you need, and don't overcrowd the pan.
• The frying oil should reach a temperature of 350°F or 175°C. If you don't have a kitchen thermometer, try adding a small piece of eggplant, if tiny bubbles form around it, you're good to go!
• You can prepare the ragu' sauce or pomodoro sauce a day in advance to save some extra time. 

Storage

• Fridge: Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for a couple of days.
• Freezer: Divide the pasta into individual freezer-friendly containers and store in the freezer for up to 1 month.
• Reheat: I recommend reheating the pasta in a warm oven for 4-5 minutes, rather than in the microwave, as it keeps its crunchy texture much better.

More pasta bake recipes

If you like baked pasta as much as I do, you will not want to miss these family favorite recipes:

• Tuna pasta bake: a comforting British classic featuring pasta mixed with tuna chunks, creamy sauce, and melted cheese.
• Caprese pasta bake: loaded with Mediterranean flavors, this vegetarian pasta bake combines pasta with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
• Chicken bacon pasta bake: a hearty dish featuring tender chicken, crispy bacon, and pasta, all coated in a creamy cheese sauce.

Did you try this recipe?

Please let me know how you liked it! Leave a comment below and share a picture on Instagram with the hashtag #thepetitecook!

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