Creamy Minced Meat Noodle Casserole

Unveil the secrets of a sumptuous dish that combines simple ingredients with rich flavors and textures. This Creamy Cheesy Minced Meat Noodles recipe is inspired by traditional comfort foods but with a gourmet twist, making it a perfect choice for impressing guests without needing professional culinary skills.

  • Ingredients:
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 250 grams noodles
    • 1 shallot, finely chopped
    • Vegetable fat (for frying)
    • 300 grams minced meat
    • 1 teaspoon paprika
    • 1 teaspoon oregano
    • Black pepper (to taste)
    • 3 eggs
    • 3 tablespoons cream
    • 100 grams cheese, grated
  • Directions:
    1. Cook noodles in boiling water with a pinch of salt until al dente. Drain and set aside.
    2. In a frying pan, heat vegetable fat over medium heat. Sauté chopped shallot until translucent.
    3. Add minced meat to the pan. Season with paprika, oregano, and black pepper. Cook until browned.
    4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs and cream. Stir in the grated cheese.
    5. Combine noodles, cooked meat, and egg mixture in a casserole dish. Mix well.
    6. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Kcal: 560 kcal
  • Servings: 4

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings or last-minute gatherings.
  • Versatile: You can easily substitute ingredients based on dietary preferences or availability. For example, swap out the type of meat, choose different cheeses, or even make it gluten-free with the appropriate noodles.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: The rich, creamy texture combined with the savory flavors of seasoned meat ensures that this dish appeals to both adults and children alike.

Recipe Background: The idea behind this dish is to bring the feel of dining in an upscale restaurant into the comfort of your own home. With its origins in the simple pasta bakes of Southern Europe, the recipe has been enhanced with the addition of a creamy, cheesy sauce and a mix of herbs to elevate the overall flavor profile.

Health Tips: While indulgent, this recipe can be adjusted to fit healthier dietary needs:

  • Lean Meat: Opt for leaner cuts of minced meat such as turkey or chicken to reduce fat content.
  • Low-Fat Dairy Options: Substitute regular cream and cheese with their low-fat counterparts to decrease calorie intake.
  • Add Vegetables: Boost the nutritional value by including spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms, which blend seamlessly into the dish.

Serving Suggestions: Serve this creamy pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil for an added touch of freshness. Pair it with a light salad dressed in vinaigrette and a crisp white wine or a sparkling water with a slice of lemon for a complete, satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips: This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. If the mixture seems too thick upon reheating, adding a splash of cream or milk can help restore its creamy texture.

Conclusion: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking to add a special touch to your weekday meals, this Creamy Cheesy Minced Meat Noodles recipe promises to deliver taste and satisfaction. Its blend of flavors and easy preparation will leave your guests or family members delighted and impressed.