Servings: 1

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 lb Mini Max (Pasta #21)
• 2 lb Ricotta
• 4 Eggs
• 1 cup Sugar
• 1 tsp Vanilla
• 1/4 cup Milk

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Cook the mini max pasta partially according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine 1-1/2 lbs of ricotta with eggs, sugar, vanilla, and milk. Mix until well combined.
3. Preheat your oven to the required temperature.
4. Place the partially cooked mini max pasta in a 9×13 inch baking pan.
5. Pour the ricotta mixture over the mini max pasta in the baking pan, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
6. Add the remaining 1/2 lb of ricotta on top of the pasta mixture.
7. Place the baking pan on the 3/4 top rack of the preheated oven.
8. Bake for 1 hour or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
9. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Mini Max and Ricotta dessert!

Here are some variations you can try with the Mini Max and Ricotta dessert:

1. Fruit and Nut Additions: Add your favorite fruits and nuts to the ricotta mixture for extra flavor and texture. Chopped dried fruits like apricots, raisins, or cranberries, and toasted nuts like almonds or pistachios work well.
2. Chocolate Twist: For a chocolatey version, mix in some cocoa powder or melted chocolate into the ricotta mixture. You can also add chocolate chips to the pasta before baking.
3. Lemon or Orange Zest: Add some lemon or orange zest to the ricotta mixture for a citrusy flavor that pairs well with the creamy ricotta.
4. Spice it Up: Sprinkle in some ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to add warm and comforting flavors to the dessert.
5. Sweet Sauces: Serve the baked Mini Max and Ricotta with a drizzle of chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, or fruit compote for an extra touch of sweetness.
6. Cheese Blend: Combine ricotta with other soft cheeses like mascarpone or cream cheese for a creamier and richer texture.
7. Savory Twist: Instead of making it sweet, try a savory version. Mix the ricotta with sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes, and add herbs like basil or thyme for a savory pasta bake.
8. Crust Variation: Instead of using shortcrust pastry, try using phyllo dough or puff pastry as the base for the dessert.
9. Individual Servings: Divide the mixture into individual ramekins or small baking dishes for personal-sized portions.
10. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta to make it a gluten-free dessert.
11. Berry Blast: Mix fresh or frozen berries like blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries into the ricotta mixture for a burst of fruity goodness.
12. Nutella Delight: Swirl in some Nutella or other hazelnut chocolate spread into the ricotta mixture for a delightful hazelnut flavor.
13. Almond Amaretto: Add a splash of amaretto liqueur and almond extract to the ricotta mixture for an almond-infused twist.
14. Maple Pecan: Incorporate maple syrup and chopped pecans into the ricotta mixture for a sweet and nutty taste.
15. Tropical Paradise: Use coconut milk instead of regular milk and add shredded coconut, diced pineapple, and mango for a tropical flair.