Ingredients

• Pasta: 300 g (dry weight)
• Minced meat: 400 g
• Onion: 1 medium-sized, chopped
• Garlic: 1-2 cloves, minced
• Butter: 20 g
• Flour: 2 tbsp
• Milk: 300 ml
• Salt: To taste
• Pepper: To taste
• Vegetable oil: For cooking

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. You can toss it with a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking if desired.
2. Prepare the Minced Meat:
   • Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced meat and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is browned and fully cooked through. This should take about 6-8 minutes.
   • Once the meat is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
   • In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
   • Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
   • Gradually pour in the milk while continuously stirring to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Combine the Meat and Pasta:
   • Once the sauce has thickened, return the cooked minced meat to the pan. Stir to combine, and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to ensure everything is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce.
5. Serve:
   • Serve the creamy pasta with minced meat sauce hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil if desired. You can also top it with grated cheese, such as Parmesan, for an extra layer of flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving):

• Calories: 600 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbs: 55g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Creamy pasta with minced meat sauce is a classic recipe that has stood the test of time for good reason. It’s simple to prepare, yet so satisfying that it’s loved by people of all ages. The rich, creamy sauce made from butter, flour, and milk coats each piece of pasta and the savory minced meat, creating a dish that’s both comforting and delicious.

The versatility of this dish also makes it timeless. You can use any kind of pasta you prefer—spaghetti, penne, fusilli, or farfalle—all of them work beautifully with the creamy sauce. Additionally, the recipe is easy to adapt depending on your dietary needs or personal preferences. You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat to make it a lighter or vegetarian version. The sauce can be flavored with various herbs, spices, or even a touch of cheese to give it an extra richness.

Moreover, this dish can be served on its own or as a side dish to complement other meals. It’s a perfect choice for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, but it’s also hearty enough to be served at a gathering. Its simplicity and flexibility make it a staple in kitchens around the world.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
   • Absolutely! This recipe works well with any ground meat, including beef, chicken, turkey, or pork. You can even use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the sauce and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat it and toss with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve.
3. Can I freeze the leftovers?
   • Yes, you can freeze the sauce and meat mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just be sure to store the pasta separately, as pasta doesn’t freeze as well. Reheat the sauce on the stovetop and cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to enjoy.
4. Can I make this dish spicier?
   • If you like a bit of heat, you can add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or even some chopped fresh chili to the sauce. Adjust the level of spiciness according to your taste.

Tips for Making the Perfect Creamy Pasta with Minced Meat

• Use Full-Fat Milk or Cream: For a richer, creamier sauce, you can substitute whole milk or add a bit of heavy cream instead. The extra fat will make the sauce even more luxurious.
• Add Vegetables: You can easily add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the onions and garlic.
• Season Well: Don’t forget to taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional herbs. This will ensure that your dish has the perfect balance of flavors.
• Add Cheese: Grated Parmesan or mozzarella can be stirred into the sauce or sprinkled on top before serving for an extra cheesy, savory finish.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce if it has thickened.
• Freezing: This creamy pasta with minced meat sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. Store the sauce separately from the pasta, as pasta can become mushy when frozen.

Conclusion

Creamy pasta with minced meat sauce is a dish that combines simplicity with comfort, offering a rich, savory meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or preparing a cozy dinner for yourself, this dish provides everything you need in one pan—pasta, protein, and a luscious sauce. It’s a meal that’s easy to make, but full of flavor and heart, ensuring that it will remain a staple in your cooking repertoire for years to come.