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Buy Now →If you’re searching for a hearty and delicious meal that brings comfort and satisfaction, look no further than this baked Stellini pasta with cheesy minced pork. This dish combines tender pasta, savory pork, and a rich cheese sauce, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe is easy to prepare and sure to impress everyone at the table.
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
- Salt, to taste
- Vegetable fat, for greasing
- 500g Stellini pasta
- 50g butter
- 20g flour
- 500ml milk
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- 200g Maasdam cheese, grated
- 200g hard cheese, grated (such as Cheddar or Parmesan)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 700g minced pork
- Herbs de Provence, to taste
- 300g salsa tomato sauce
- Additional cheese for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Stellini pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and stir continuously to make a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until golden.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps, until the mixture thickens into a smooth sauce.
- Season with salt and ground black pepper to taste.
- Stir in the grated Maasdam cheese and hard cheese until fully melted and combined. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Pork Filling:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of vegetable fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they are soft and translucent.
- Add the minced pork to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
- Season the pork mixture with salt, ground black pepper, and Herbs de Provence to taste.
- Stir in the salsa tomato sauce and let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until well combined.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Grease a large baking dish with vegetable fat.
- Spread half of the cooked Stellini pasta in the bottom of the baking dish.
- Evenly spread the pork mixture over the pasta layer.
- Top with the remaining Stellini pasta.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the top layer of pasta, ensuring it covers evenly.
- Sprinkle additional grated cheese on top for a crispy, cheesy crust.
- Bake:
- Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let the baked pasta cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this comforting and delicious dish with a fresh green salad or garlic bread.
Tips for the Perfect Baked Stellini Pasta
- Even Cooking: Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente to avoid it becoming too soft after baking.
- Cheese Variety: Experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite combination.
- Herbs and Spices: Adjust the seasoning to your preference. Try adding chili flakes for a bit of heat or fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
- Layering: Layering the ingredients evenly ensures that every bite has a balance of pasta, pork, and cheese.
Nutritional Benefits
This baked pasta dish provides a satisfying meal with several nutritional benefits:
- Protein: Minced pork provides a good source of protein.
- Calcium: Cheese and milk contribute to calcium intake for strong bones.
- Fiber: Adding a side salad or vegetables can increase fiber content.
Dietary Information
- Adaptable: This recipe can be adapted to suit various dietary needs.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and flour.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute minced pork with a plant-based meat alternative or a mixture of sautéed vegetables.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This baked Stellini pasta with cheesy minced pork is a comforting, hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying. The combination of tender pasta, savory pork filling, and creamy cheese sauce creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures that everyone will love.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this baked Stellini pasta with cheesy minced pork is an ideal dish for any occasion. Its rich flavors and comforting qualities make it a family favorite. Try this recipe today and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that brings everyone together.