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Baked Spaghetti with Minced Meat and Cheese is a rich and flavorful dish, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This dish combines classic ingredients like pasta, ground meat, vegetables, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. The baked layers of spaghetti and cheese give it a wonderful texture, while the minced meat adds depth and heartiness. This comforting casserole is great for those who enjoy a warm, filling meal without much fuss.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients (Serves 6):

Spaghetti: 200 g (7 oz)
Minced Meat (Beef or Lamb): 400 g (14 oz)

Onion: 1, finely chopped
Garlic Clove: 1, minced
Carrot: 1, grated

Bell Pepper: 1/2, diced
Tomato: 1, chopped
Vegetable Oil: 2 tbsp (30 ml)

Eggs: 4
Spring Onions: 2-3 stalks, chopped
Milk: 450 ml (1 3/4 cups)

Butter: 50 g (1/4 cup)
Flour: 4 tbsp (30 g)
Grated Cheese (Cheddar or Mozzarella): 100 g (1 cup)

Smoked Paprika: 1/2 tsp
Salt and Black Pepper: To taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Spaghetti:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain the spaghetti and set aside.

2. Prepare the Meat Filling:

Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.

Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
Add the minced garlic, grated carrot, diced bell pepper, and chopped tomato. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.
Add the minced meat to the pan. Cook and stir until the meat browns and is fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon.

Season with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to taste.
Once cooked, remove from heat and set aside.

3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:

In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to create a roux (thickened paste).
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
Continue whisking until the sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes).

Remove from heat and stir in half of the grated cheese.
Season with salt and pepper, and allow the sauce to cool for a few minutes.
Beat the eggs in a small bowl and slowly add them to the cooled sauce while stirring.

4. Assemble the Dish:

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
Grease a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with butter or oil.
Spread half of the cooked spaghetti evenly on the bottom of the dish.

Add the minced meat and vegetable mixture on top of the spaghetti.
Pour a small amount of the cheese sauce over the meat.
Add the remaining spaghetti on top and pour the remaining cheese sauce evenly over the dish.

Sprinkle the rest of the grated cheese over the top.

5. Bake:

Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.

6. Garnish:

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Garnish with chopped spring onions for added freshness.

Cooking Tips:

Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.

Cheese Options: You can use any cheese you like, such as Parmesan, Gruyere, or Gouda, depending on the flavor you prefer.
Layering: Ensure that the cheese sauce is spread evenly over the spaghetti layers for a rich, creamy bite in every forkful.
Don’t Overbake: Be careful not to overcook the dish in the oven. The top should be golden but not too dark, and the cheese should be melted and bubbly.

Storage:

Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze individual portions of the baked spaghetti for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

Calories: 520 kcal

Protein: 30 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fat: 24 g

Fiber: 4 g
Sodium: 800 mg

FAQs:

1. Can I use whole wheat spaghetti?
Yes, whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti can be used as a healthier alternative.

2. Can I substitute minced meat with something else?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute like lentils or tofu.

3. How can I prevent the cheese sauce from curdling?
Ensure that you let the sauce cool slightly before adding the beaten eggs. Adding eggs to a hot sauce can cause them to scramble.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just extend the baking time by about 10-15 minutes if baking straight from the fridge.

Conclusion:

This Baked Spaghetti with Minced Meat and Cheese is a perfect comfort food dish that will surely become a family favorite. It’s loaded with hearty ingredients like pasta, savory minced meat, and topped with a creamy, cheesy sauce that bakes to perfection. Whether you’re preparing it for a dinner party or a cozy night in, this dish is guaranteed to please. It’s versatile enough to cater to various tastes and easy to make ahead, making your life a little less hectic in the kitchen. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the satisfaction of a delicious homemade meal!