This hearty and comforting dish combines the best of both worlds: a rich, meaty pasta bake layered with creamy potatoes and topped with a delightful blend of eggs, sour cream, and sausages. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. With layers of flavor and texture, it’s a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Pasta:
- 1 purple onion, chopped
- 300 g minced meat
- 200 g pasta
- 30 g butter
- 20 g flour
- 500 ml milk
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 100 g tomato sauce
- 150 g hard mozzarella cheese, grated
- A little vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
- Ground black pepper to taste
- Dried ground sweet paprika to taste
For the Main Dish:
- 500 g potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 4 chicken eggs, beaten
- 200 g sour cream
- A bunch of spring onions, chopped
- 1 tomato, sliced
- 2 hunting sausages, sliced
- 50 g Parmesan cheese, grated
- A little vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
- Ground black pepper to taste
- Ground sweet paprika to taste
Directions:
Prepare the Pasta:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Meat Sauce:
- In a skillet, heat a little vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped purple onion and cook until soft.
- Add the minced meat, salt, ground black pepper, and dried ground sweet paprika. Cook until the meat is browned.
- Add the chopped tomato and tomato sauce. Simmer for 10 minutes, then set aside.
- Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and continue to cook until the sauce thickens.
- Season with salt, ground black pepper, and a pinch of dried ground sweet paprika. Set aside.
Assemble the Main Dish:
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Arrange the peeled and sliced potatoes in a greased baking dish.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Pour the meat sauce over the potatoes.
- Spread the cooked pasta over the meat sauce.
- Pour the béchamel sauce evenly over the pasta.
- Sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese on top.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the sour cream. Add chopped spring onions, salt, ground black pepper, and ground sweet paprika.
- Add the Final Toppings:
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered dish.
- Arrange the tomato slices and hunting sausage slices on top.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over everything.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
- Serve:
- Let the dish cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your hearty and delicious meal!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of mixed green salad for a refreshing contrast.
- A slice of garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish.
- For a complete meal, add a glass of red wine or a refreshing lemonade.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the béchamel sauce is smooth and lump-free by whisking continuously while adding the milk.
- Use a variety of cheeses for a richer flavor, such as a mix of mozzarella and cheddar.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of chili flakes to the meat sauce.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Protein: This dish is rich in protein from the minced meat, eggs, and cheeses, which are essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Calcium: Dairy ingredients like milk, sour cream, and cheeses provide calcium, important for strong bones and teeth.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Potatoes and tomatoes add essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and folate.
Dietary Information:
- Servings: This recipe serves 6-8 people.
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 600-700 kcal per serving.
- Dietary Restrictions: Contains dairy, gluten, and eggs. Not suitable for vegans or individuals with lactose intolerance or celiac disease.
Storage:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful Layers: Each layer brings its own unique flavor and texture, creating a harmonious and satisfying dish.
- Versatile: Great for dinner parties, family meals, or meal prep for the week.
- Comforting: The combination of potatoes, pasta, and creamy sauces makes it a perfect comfort food.
Conclusion:
This delicious and hearty pasta and potato bake is a fantastic way to bring together your favorite comfort foods into one dish. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a dish for a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the rich flavors, creamy textures, and the wonderful aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes. Bon appétit!