How to Make Baked Penne Carbonara (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Baked Penne Carbonara is a modern Malaysian twist on the classic carbonara, tailored for health-conscious eaters and vegetarians. In Malaysia, the multicultural food scene encourages fusion dishes that blend traditional Italian flavors with local ingredients like fresh daun bawang (spring onion) and lemongrass, making them unique to our palate. This recipe skips heavy cream and uses a savoury santan (coconut milk) base for a lighter yet creamy texture, embracing the Malaysian love for coconut in savory dishes. This dish is perfect for lunch, particularly for those who appreciate comforting home-cooked meals with a nutritious balance. The baked pasta is packed with vegetables and cheese, making it both satisfying and wholesome. With its golden, bubbly top and local herbs, Baked Penne Carbonara is a crowd-pleaser for Malaysian families, drawing upon our tradition of hearty, oven-baked casseroles enjoyed during gatherings. It’s a dish that welcomes everyone to the table, embodying Malaysia’s inclusive and innovative food culture.
Bahan
Arahan langkah demi langkah
Langkah 1 · Preheat your oven to 180°C
Preheat your oven to 180°C. Bring a pot of water to boil and cook the whole wheat penne until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Langkah 2 · While the pasta cooks
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and chopped lemongrass until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Langkah 3 · Add sliced mushrooms and cook for another 3-4 minutes until soft
Add sliced mushrooms and cook for another 3-4 minutes until soft. Season with salt and black pepper.
Langkah 4 · In a separate bowl
In a separate bowl, whisk eggs with santan until well combined. Stir in half the grated cheese.
Langkah 5 · Combine the cooked pasta
Combine the cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, and egg-santan-cheese mixture in a large mixing bowl. Mix gently to coat evenly.
Langkah 6 · Transfer everything into a lightly greased ovenproof dish
Transfer everything into a lightly greased ovenproof dish. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
Langkah 7 · Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling. Garnish with sliced daun bawang before serving.
Mengapa resipi ini sihat
By replacing heavy cream with light santan and using whole wheat pasta, this dish significantly reduces calories and glycemic impact, making it suitable for those tracking weight or blood sugar. The inclusion of local vegetables and lean dairy ensures a balanced meal with lower fat, higher fiber, and beneficial nutrients, supporting a healthier Malaysian lifestyle.
Nota tentang tradisi
While carbonara is not traditionally Malaysian, our version is inspired by the country's multiculturalism and love for adapting global dishes with local ingredients. Using santan, lemongrass, and daun bawang reflects Malaysia’s fusion cuisine, especially popular in urban areas of Selangor and Kuala Lumpur, where Western dishes are regularly reinvented with local flair. Baked pasta dishes are often enjoyed during family gatherings or festive lunches, bridging both Western and Asian culinary traditions.