Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect results

Ingredients

0/7 checked
6
servings
0.75 pound

carrots

peeled and thinly sliced

1 unit

navel orange

zest removed in strips

1 pinch

salt

to taste

3 cup

penne rigate

3 ounce

sharp cheddar cheese

shredded

1 tbsp

tarragon

chopped

1 pinch

white pepper

freshly ground

Step 1
~5 min

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2
~5 min

Combine carrots, orange zest and juice, and 1/4 cup water in a medium saucepan.

Step 3
~5 min

Season with salt and bring to a boil.

Step 4
~5 min

Cover and simmer over moderate heat until the carrots are very soft (about 30 minutes).

Step 5
~5 min

Discard the orange zest strips.

Step 6
~5 min

Transfer the carrots and any liquid to a blender.

Step 7
~5 min

Puree until very smooth.

Step 8
~5 min

Cook the pasta in a large saucepan of boiling salted water until al dente.

Step 9
~5 min

Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of the cooking water.

Step 10
~5 min

Return the pasta to the pot.

Step 11
~5 min

Add the reserved water and the carrot puree.

Step 12
~5 min

Cook over moderate heat, stirring frequently, until the pasta is coated with a thickened sauce (about 5 minutes).

Step 13
~5 min

Stir in three-fourths of the cheese and cook, stirring, until very creamy (2 to 3 minutes longer).

Step 14
~5 min

Stir in the tarragon and season with salt and white pepper.

Step 15
~5 min

Transfer the pasta to a medium baking dish.

Key Technique: Baking
Step 16
~5 min

Top with the remaining cheese.

Step 17
~5 min

Bake until the cheese is melted and lightly browned (about 20 minutes).

Step 18
~5 min

Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

Expert advice for the best results

Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.

Use different types of cheese for a more complex flavor profile.

Top with breadcrumbs for added crunch.

Cooking Experience

Everything you need to know before you start

Time & Preparation

Cleanup Time

15 minutes

Batch Cooking
Friendly
Make Ahead

Can be made a day ahead and refrigerated.

Freezable
Kid Friendly

Cooking Environment

Messiness Level
Medium
Smell Intensity
Medium
Noise Level
Low
Elder Friendly
Suitable for seniors

Plating & Presentation

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side salad.

Serve as a side dish to grilled chicken or fish.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

Roasted vegetables
Grilled chicken

Drink Pairings

Cultural Heritage

Discover the story behind this recipe

Origin & Tradition

Region of Origin

North America

Cultural Significance

Comfort food classic

Style

Occasions & Celebrations

Festive Uses

Thanksgiving
Christmas

Occasion Tags

Weeknight dinner
Holiday meal

Popularity Score

75/100

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