Ingredients

• Minced meat – 500g (with onions and herbs if pre-seasoned)
• Sweet pepper – 1, diced
• Cherry tomatoes – a handful, halved
• Fine vermicelli – 250g
• Milk – 750 ml
• Butter – 75g
• Flour – 3 tbsp
• Vegetable oil – for frying
• Salt – to taste
• Ground black pepper – to taste
• Cheese – approximately 160g, grated

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Cook the Vermicelli: Boil the fine vermicelli in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Dice the Vegetables: Chop the sweet pepper and halve the cherry tomatoes.

Step 2: Cook the Minced Meat Mixture

1. Sauté the Minced Meat: In a large skillet, heat a small amount of vegetable oil over medium heat. If using already seasoned minced meat (with onions and herbs), proceed directly to cooking. Sauté the minced meat until it’s fully cooked and golden brown, breaking it apart with a spatula.
2. Add Vegetables: Add the diced sweet pepper and cherry tomatoes to the pan, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

1. Melt the Butter: In a separate saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Add Flour: Whisk in the flour, stirring continuously for about 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. This creates a roux, which will help thicken the sauce.
3. Add Milk Gradually: Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue stirring as the sauce thickens, for about 5-7 minutes.
4. Season the Sauce: Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Once the sauce is smooth and has thickened, remove it from the heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Layer Ingredients in Baking Dish: In a baking dish, start by spreading a layer of the cooked vermicelli at the bottom. Add a layer of the minced meat mixture over the vermicelli, distributing it evenly.
3. Pour Sauce: Pour the creamy sauce over the entire mixture, ensuring it seeps through all the layers.
4. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the grated cheese generously over the top of the casserole.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
2. Cool Slightly: Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help the layers set and make it easier to slice.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 520 kcal
• Protein: 24g
• Fat: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 430mg
• Sugars: 5g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use other types of pasta for this casserole?

• Yes, other pasta varieties like macaroni, fusilli, or penne can work well as substitutes for fine vermicelli.

2. Can I use ground beef instead of pre-seasoned minced meat?

• Absolutely! If using plain ground beef, consider adding some onions, garlic, and dried herbs to season the meat.

3. Is there a way to make this casserole lighter?

• For a lighter version, you can use milk alternatives like unsweetened almond milk and reduce the amount of cheese. Lean ground turkey or chicken can also substitute for minced meat.

4. Can this dish be frozen?

• Yes, this casserole freezes well. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through.

Tips for Making the Perfect Minced Meat Vermicelli Casserole

• Pre-cook the Pasta: Cook the vermicelli just until al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or basil added to the finished casserole adds brightness and enhances the flavors.
• Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or gouda, to create a unique flavor profile.
• Season Generously: Make sure to taste and adjust seasoning in each component of the casserole, especially the sauce and minced meat mixture.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake until heated through.
• Freezing: Allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Thaw frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator. Cover with foil and reheat in a 180°C (350°F) oven for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

Conclusion

This Creamy Baked Minced Meat Vermicelli Casserole is a comforting and hearty meal that’s ideal for any occasion. With layers of pasta, seasoned meat, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce, this casserole will become a family favorite. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or meal-prepping for the days ahead, this dish is sure to satisfy. Enjoy the blend of flavors and textures in each bite!