Ingredients:
1 lb asparagus, cut in 1-inch pieces
1 lb penne
salt, pepper to taste
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
2 cups milk
1 cup mascarpone cheese
1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon cayenne
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted
Directions:
Bring a large pot of water to boil. Add asparagus and cook 5 minutes. Remove and add penne and cook until al dente, about 10-15 minutes.
Make white sauce with butter, flour and milk. Remove from heat and stir in mascarpone and 1/2 cup Parmesan. Season with nutmeg, cayenne, salt and pepper.
Combine butter and breadcrumbs, stir in cheese.
Stir together pasta, cheese sauce, nuts and mix well. Pour into 9×13 pan prepared with cooking spray and top with breadcrumb mixture.
Bake at 350 F uncovered 30 minutes, longer if refrigerated.
Servings: 8
Time preparation: 30 min.
Time total: 60 min.