This Spanish-Style Baked Pasta with Beef and Cheese is a comforting and savory dish inspired by a recipe from a friend in Spain. The layers of pasta, rich minced beef, and creamy bechamel sauce topped with melted mozzarella create a delightful meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

The combination of ingredients brings together the hearty flavors of minced beef, the tanginess of tomatoes, and the creamy richness of bechamel sauce, all enhanced by the nutty flavor of parmesan and the gooey goodness of mozzarella. Serve this dish hot and enjoy the wonderful blend of textures and tastes. It’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!

 

Full Recipe:

Ingredients: • 1 onion • 3 cloves of garlic • 600g minced beef • 100ml dry red wine • 300g chopped tomatoes • 40g butter • 1 leek • 2 tbsp flour • 500ml milk • 80g parmesan • 300g pasta • 150g mozzarella • Vegetable oil • 3 tsp salt • 1 tsp black pepper • 1 tsp sugar • Pinch of nutmeg

Directions:

Prepare the Onions and Garlic:

1. Heat some vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Chop the onion finely and add it to the pan.
3. Fry for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent.
4. Crush and chop the garlic cloves, then add to the pan.
5. Fry with the onions for about 1 minute.

Cook the Minced Beef:

1. Add 600g of minced beef to the pan.
2. Fry for 10 minutes, stirring constantly until the beef is browned.
3. Pour in 100ml of dry red wine.
4. Add 1 tsp of salt and 1/2 tsp of black pepper.
5. Cook until all the liquid has evaporated.

Prepare the Tomato Mixture:

1. Add 300g of chopped tomatoes to the beef.
2. Stir in 1 tsp of sugar.
3. Cook for another 5 minutes, then remove from heat.

Prepare the Leek and Bechamel Sauce:

1. In a separate pan, melt 40g of butter.
2. Cut and rinse 1 leek under water, then add to the pan.
3. Fry until golden, about 8 minutes.
4. Add 2 tbsp of flour and stir well.
5. Gradually add 500ml of milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
6. Season with 1 tsp of salt, a little black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
7. Blend the sauce until smooth if desired.
8. Grate 80g of parmesan and add to the sauce, stirring until melted.

Cook the Pasta:

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Add 1 tsp of salt and 3 tbsp of vegetable oil to the water.
3. Add 300g of pasta and cook until al dente.
4. Drain the pasta and mix it with the prepared sauce.

Assemble the Dish:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F).
2. In a baking dish, place a layer of pasta.
3. Add a layer of the minced meat mixture.
4. Repeat to make two more layers of pasta and meat.

Top and Bake:

1. Grate 150g of mozzarella and sprinkle it over the top layer.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.

Serve:

1. Serve hot while the cheese is still soft and melted.
2. Enjoy your incredibly delicious dinner!

Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Kcal: 450 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings

Nutritional Benefits:

This recipe is not just delicious, but also packed with nutrients. The beef provides a rich source of protein, while the tomatoes add essential vitamins and antioxidants. The bechamel sauce, enriched with milk and parmesan, contributes calcium and healthy fats. The combination of these ingredients results in a balanced meal that is both nourishing and satisfying.

Ingredient Tips:

• Minced Beef: Use lean minced beef for a healthier option. The red wine adds depth to the flavor, so choose a good quality dry red wine.
• Leek: Make sure to clean the leek thoroughly to remove any dirt or sand trapped between the layers.
• Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan and mozzarella will provide the best flavor and melting quality.

Cooking Tips:

• Browning the Meat: Ensure that the minced beef is well-browned. This adds a rich, caramelized flavor to the dish.
• Bechamel Sauce: Stir continuously while making the bechamel sauce to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth consistency.
• Layering: For even layers, spread the pasta and meat mixtures uniformly. This ensures each bite has a perfect balance of flavors.

Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the minced beef with a mix of sautéed mushrooms and zucchini.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red chili flakes to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the bechamel sauce.

Serving Suggestions:

• Side Dishes: Pair this dish with a fresh green salad and a slice of garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Wine Pairing: Serve with a glass of Spanish red wine, such as Tempranillo or Garnacha, to complement the rich flavors of the dish.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Final Thoughts:

This Spanish-Style Baked Pasta with Beef and Cheese is a testament to the delicious possibilities of combining simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet family meal, this dish is sure to impress. The layers of flavor and the comforting warmth of baked pasta make it an unforgettable dining experience. Enjoy the rich, savory goodness and the compliments that come with serving this delightful dish. Bon appétit!