Experience the delightful combination of tender crepes, savory meat filling, and creamy béchamel sauce in this delicious Savory Crepe Bake. Perfect for a family meal or special occasion, this dish layers flavorful ingredients to create a satisfying and comforting meal. Let’s get started on this culinary adventure!
Total Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Crepes:
- 2 eggs
- Salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 500 ml milk
- 240 grams of flour
- 30 grams of butter, melted
- Warm water, as needed to adjust dough consistency
- Vegetable oil, for greasing the pan
For the Meat Filling:
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 450 grams of minced meat
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 cup pureed tomatoes
- 1 fresh tomato, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, grated
For the Béchamel Sauce:
- 30 grams of butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 500 ml milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
For the Assembly:
- 150 grams pizza mozzarella, grated
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Crepes:
- Mix the Batter:
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, a pinch of salt, and sugar.
- Gradually add milk while continuing to whisk.
- Sift in the flour in portions, whisking to maintain a smooth consistency. If the batter is too thick, adjust by adding some warm water.
- Stir in the melted butter.
- Cook the Crepes:
- Heat a non-stick pan and lightly grease it with oil.
- Pour enough batter to cover the bottom of the pan thinly. Cook each side until golden, then set aside. Only grease the pan before the first crepe.
Cook the Meat Filling:
- Sauté the Onion:
- In a pan, sauté the onion until soft.
- Cook the Meat:
- Add the minced meat, breaking up lumps and cook until browned.
- Add Vegetables and Seasoning:
- Add the chopped bell pepper, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano.
- Stir in the pureed and fresh tomatoes along with the grated carrot.
- Cook over low heat for 10 minutes until everything is well combined and the flavors meld.
Make the Béchamel Sauce:
- Melt Butter:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over low heat.
- Cook the Roux:
- Stir in the flour and cook for a minute without letting it brown.
- Add Milk:
- Gradually add milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Cook until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat.
Assemble the Bake:
- Layer the Ingredients:
- In a baking dish, layer the crepes with spoonfuls of béchamel sauce and the meat mixture. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of crepes.
- Add Toppings:
- Sprinkle the top with grated mozzarella and a few sesame seeds.
- Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Bake the assembled dish for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before cutting. Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side salad of mixed greens for a balanced meal.
- Pair with a glass of red wine for an elegant touch.
- Enjoy with a fresh loaf of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the crepe batter is smooth and free of lumps for the best texture.
- Cook the crepes on medium heat to achieve a golden-brown color without burning.
- Allow the béchamel sauce to cool slightly before layering to prevent the crepes from becoming too soggy.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Minced Meat: Provides protein and essential nutrients.
- Vegetables: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Béchamel Sauce: Adds a creamy texture without excessive fat.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour for the crepes and sauce.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute butter and milk with plant-based alternatives and use dairy-free cheese.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Rich and Flavorful: The combination of savory meat, creamy sauce, and tender crepes is irresistible.
- Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
- Impressive Presentation: Ideal for family gatherings or special occasions.
Conclusion:
This Savory Crepe Bake with Meat Filling and Béchamel Sauce is a testament to the magic of combining simple, wholesome ingredients to create something truly delicious. It’s a favorite in my household, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in yours as well. Happy cooking!