This baked pasta dish is a comforting and delicious meal that combines tender pasta with a savory minced meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and melted mozzarella. It’s perfect for family dinners, easy to prepare, and versatile enough to adapt with your favorite vegetables or spices. The layers of flavors and textures make this dish a standout, whether it’s for a weeknight meal or a special gathering.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Ingredients:
Pasta:
- 200g (about 1 cup) Pasta Ditali Rigati
Béchamel Sauce:
- 80g (about 1/3 cup) butter
- 80g (about 2/3 cup) flour
- 500ml (about 2 cups) milk
- 100g (about 1 cup) mozzarella cheese, shredded
Meat and Vegetables:
- 500g (about 1.1 lbs) minced meat
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 carrot, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 100g (about 1 cup) mushrooms, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 50g (about 3 tablespoons) tomato paste
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon mixed herbs (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Garnishes:
- Spring onions, chopped
- Parsley, chopped
- Dill (optional)
Directions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil water in a large pot. Add salt and a splash of oil. Cook the Pasta Ditali Rigati for 7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Béchamel Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and stir continuously for 2 minutes.
- Gradually pour in milk while whisking until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
- Stir in shredded mozzarella until melted. Set aside.
- Prepare the Meat and Vegetables:
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced meat and cook until browned.
- Add onion, carrot, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables soften.
- Stir in mushrooms, bell pepper, and tomato paste. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and mixed herbs. Cook for a few more minutes.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
- In a baking dish, layer cooked pasta, meat mixture, and béchamel sauce.
- Sprinkle with spring onions, parsley, and remaining mozzarella.
- Bake for 40 minutes, until golden and bubbly on top.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
- Pair with garlic bread for a hearty meal.
- Garnish with parmesan or extra mozzarella.
- Serve with a glass of red wine for a complete dinner.
- Accompany with roasted vegetables for added texture and nutrition.
Cooking Tips:
- To save time, prepare the béchamel sauce while the pasta is cooking.
- Add a mix of cheeses (cheddar, parmesan) for more flavor depth.
- For extra heat, add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier version.
- Make sure the béchamel sauce is lump-free by whisking constantly as you add the milk.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Protein: Minced meat provides a rich source of protein, supporting muscle growth.
- Calcium: Béchamel sauce and mozzarella contribute to bone health.
- Fiber: Vegetables and pasta contribute dietary fiber for better digestion.
- Vitamins: Vegetables like carrots and bell peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, supporting immune function.
Dietary Information:
- Servings: 6
- Dietary Considerations: Contains gluten, dairy, and meat. Suitable for non-vegetarians.
- Calories per Serving: 450 kcal (approx.)
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Calcium: 200mg
- Iron: 2mg
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (356°F) until warm, or microwave on medium power.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Comfort Food: Creamy béchamel, tender pasta, and savory meat create the ultimate comfort dish.
- Versatile: Easily adapt this recipe by adding different vegetables or swapping the meat.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can assemble this dish ahead and bake when ready.
- Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a family-friendly recipe that everyone will enjoy.
- Great Leftovers: It reheats beautifully and is perfect for meal prep.
Conclusion:
This baked pasta with minced meat and béchamel sauce is a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The combination of rich, creamy béchamel and savory meat sauce over tender pasta creates a satisfying meal that’s easy to make and versatile. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or meal prepping for later, this recipe will become a go-to favorite for its simplicity and deliciousness.