Lunches
Schinkenfleckerl (Ham and Pasta Bake)
Ingredients
- - 400 g (14 oz) Fleckerl pasta (or other square-cut pasta)
- - 250 g (9 oz) cooked ham, diced
- - 3 large eggs
- - 250 ml (1 cup) sour cream
- - 100 ml (1/3 cup) whole milk
- - 1 small onion, finely diced
- - 20 g (1 1/2 tbsp) butter
- - 100 g (1 cup) grated Emmental cheese
- - 1 tsp salt
- - 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- - 1 pinch ground nutmeg
Method
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Butter a baking dish.
- Cook the Fleckerl pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain.
- In a frying pan, melt the butter and sauté the onion until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the diced ham and warm through for 2 minutes.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, milk, salt, pepper and nutmeg.
- Combine the pasta, ham and onion mixture in the baking dish, then pour the egg mixture evenly over the top so it settles into the pasta.
- Scatter the grated Emmental over the surface.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden and set, with a lightly crisp top.
Introduction: Schinkenfleckerl is a homely baked pasta dish found on Austrian lunch tables and in Viennese Beisl (tavern-style) restaurants alike.
Cultural Background: Schinkenfleckerl is a homely baked pasta dish found on Austrian lunch tables and in Viennese Beisl (tavern-style) restaurants alike. Made with square-cut Fleckerl pasta, ham and a creamy egg custard, it developed as a practical way to use up leftover ham and is closely tied to Austria’s love of simple, satisfying baked dishes.
Tips: Let the bake rest for 5 minutes before serving so it holds together when sliced. For extra flavour, brown the ham lightly before adding the onion.
Variations: Add sautéed mushrooms or peas for extra texture. Swap ham for smoked bacon lardons for a stronger flavour. Omit the ham and add extra cheese and sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian version.
Vegetarian/Vegan: Omit the ham and add extra vegetables and cheese for a satisfying vegetarian version.
Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in a 160°C (320°F) oven for 15 minutes, or microwave until piping hot.
Nutrition: Approx. per serving: 520 kcal, 24g protein, 48g carbohydrate, 26g fat
FAQs:
Q: What is Fleckerl pasta? A: It’s a small, square-cut pasta traditional in Austrian and Central European cooking; farfalle or macaroni can substitute. Q: Can this be made ahead? A: Yes, assemble it up to a day ahead, cover, and bake fresh when ready to serve.
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