What does adding an egg to pasta do?

It binds everything together. When baked, the egg firms up, holding the pasta and cheese in place. It also adds richness and helps the top get that crispy, golden finish.

Do Italians put eggs in their pasta?

Yes—but it depends on the dish. For fresh pasta dough like tagliatelle, eggs are key. In baked dishes like pasta al forno with egg , the egg is used to bind the pasta during baking, especially in Southern-style recipes.

How do I prevent a soggy pasta al forno?

Use al dente pasta and avoid watery sauces. Bake uncovered so moisture can evaporate. Rest the bake for 5 minutes before serving to let it firm up.

Why don't they refrigerate eggs in Italy?

In Europe, eggs aren’t washed the same way they are in the U.S., so their natural protective coating stays intact. That means they can be stored safely at room temp. But once washed (like in the U.S.), they need to be refrigerated.

Pasta al Forno with Egg – 5 Solo Cooking Tips for Perfect Results

Name: Pasta al Forno with Egg Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian

Description

A cozy, solo-sized pasta al forno with egg—cheesy, crispy, and satisfying with no leftovers to manage.

Ingredients

1/2 cup cooked pasta (penne or rigatoni)

1 egg 1 tbsp milk or cream

1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or parmesan)

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tsp olive oil or butter (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a bowl, whisk the egg with milk, cheese, salt, and pepper.

3. Mix with your already-sauced pasta.

4. Pour into a small ramekin or loaf pan.

5. Top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs if desired.

6. Bake uncovered for 20–22 minutes until golden and set.

7. Let rest for 5 minutes before eating.

Notes

Use slightly undercooked pasta to avoid sogginess.
Add spinach, peas, or leftover cooked meat for variations.
Don’t freeze—best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 ramekin
Calories: 390
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 420mg
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 31g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 17g
Cholesterol: 170mg

Keywords: pasta al forno with egg, baked pasta for one, solo pasta bake