Tiella(Italian Cheesecake; A Hot Dish, Not A Dessert)
A savory Italian casserole combining eggs, cheeses, and noodles baked to a golden crust, perfect for family dinners or comfort food enthusiasts seeking rich, cheesy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the eggs very well in a large bowl.
- Add the noodles, salt, butter, ricotta cheese, and Romano cheese to the beaten eggs and stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a well-greased large baking dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20 minutes.
- Lower the oven temperature to 350°F and continue baking for an additional hour.
- Bake until a golden crust forms on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of different cheeses such as mozzarella or parmesan along with the ricotta and Romano. If you want to lighten the dish, you can substitute some of the eggs with egg whites. Ensure the noodles are cooked al dente before adding them to the mixture to avoid a mushy texture. This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover eggs from your Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Tiella pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile dish for gatherings. Consider serving it with a drizzle of pesto to enhance the flavors, or alongside Italian Eggs for a hearty brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the Tiella in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick lunch or snack, but the oven method helps maintain the dish's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tiella(Italian Cheesecake; A Hot Dish, Not A Dessert) contains roughly 1653 calories, with 7g protein, 133g carbohydrates, and 120g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2009mg per serving (87% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella for a creamier texture or parmesan for a sharper flavor. Mixing in some feta can also add a unique twist. Just ensure that the total amount of cheese remains similar to the original recipe for the best texture.
What type of noodles work best for this recipe?
Thin noodles or angel hair pasta are ideal for this dish as they cook quickly and blend well with the egg mixture. If you want a heartier bite, you could opt for a short pasta like penne or fusilli, but adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they're not overcooked.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Tiella in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you're ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven, and you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).