This Cheesy Baked Pasta with Minced Meat is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners. Combining tender pasta, savory minced meat, and a creamy cheese sauce, this bake is sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5-10 minutes
Ingredients:
- 250g pasta
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 raw sweet red pepper, chopped
- 600g minced meat
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 leek stalk, chopped
- 40g butter
- 20g flour
- 500ml milk
- 100g hard mozzarella cheese, grated
- Some vegetable oil
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a bit of vegetable oil. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the chopped red pepper and leek to the skillet, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced meat to the skillet and cook until browned. Season with salt and ground black pepper.
- Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the grated mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, meat mixture, and cheese sauce. Mix well to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions: Serve this cheesy baked pasta with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It’s also great with steamed vegetables or a fresh fruit salad.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven.
- You can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or macaroni.
- For extra flavor, add some Italian herbs like basil or oregano to the meat mixture.
Nutritional Benefits:
- High in protein from the minced meat and cheese.
- Contains vitamins and minerals from the vegetables.
- Provides a good source of carbohydrates for energy.
Dietary Information:
- Contains dairy and gluten.
- Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and flour.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. This dish can also be frozen for up to 1 month.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Comforting and filling, perfect for family meals.
- Easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
- Deliciously creamy and cheesy, making it a family favorite.
Conclusion: This Cheesy Baked Pasta with Minced Meat is a delightful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and comforting textures make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or special family dinners. Enjoy the savory goodness of this baked pasta and share it with your loved ones!