Air Fryer Baked Pasta

Method

1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain.
2. Finely chop the onion and cut the zucchini into desired pieces (chopped, sliced, or grated).
3. In a large pan, heat olive oil and sauté the onion until translucent.
4. Add the zucchini, season with salt and pepper (and chili or Tabasco if desired), and cook for 4–5 minutes.
5. Add the chorizo (or alternative cured meat) and cook briefly.
6. Splash with white wine and let it evaporate.
7. Add the tomato passata and stir to combine.
8. In a small bowl or glass, mix the milk, flour, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until smooth and lump‑free.
9. Pour the milk mixture into the pan and stir continuously until the sauce thickens into a creamy bechamel‑like consistency.
10. Adjust salt to taste.
11. Add the drained pasta to the sauce and mix well.
12. Add Parmesan or Grana Padano and cheddar cheese (or other cheeses like provolone or scamorza) and stir until melted.
13. Transfer the pasta mixture to the air fryer basket.
14. Top with mozzarella and additional Parmesan.
15. Air fry at 200°C (390°F) for 7 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
16. Serve immediately.