Infuse the MilkIn a saucepan, combine 300 ml of whole milk, a peeled small onion, and 3–4 dried cloves. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat, discard the onion and cloves, and set the infused milk aside.

Cook the Pasta and SausagesBoil 300 g of pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside. Separately, boil the sausages until fully cooked, then slice them into thin rounds.

Sauté the Onion and SausagesIn a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of sunflower oil. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add the sliced sausages and cook for another 3–4 minutes until lightly browned. Remove from heat.

Prepare the Béchamel SauceIn a saucepan, melt 50 g of butter over medium heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and bubbly. Gradually pour in the infused milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Season with salt to taste.

Assemble the CasseroleIn a greased baking dish, spread the cooked pasta evenly. Layer the sautéed sausage and onion mixture on top. Pour the béchamel sauce over the pasta and filling, ensuring it spreads evenly.

Add the Cheese ToppingSprinkle 200 g of grated cheese over the top of the casserole, covering it completely.

BakePreheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the casserole for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling.

ServeAllow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm with a crisp green salad or a side of steamed vegetables.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?Yes, assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

What type of pasta works best?Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or macaroni holds the sauce well and is ideal for this casserole.

Can I freeze leftovers?Absolutely. Store in airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?Replace sausages with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.

What other cheeses can I use?Cheddar, gouda, or a mix of cheeses can be used based on your preference.

Is there a dairy-free alternative?Use plant-based milk, butter, and cheese substitutes to make a dairy-free version.

Can I add herbs to the béchamel sauce?Yes, herbs like thyme, parsley, or nutmeg can enhance the flavor of the sauce.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?Ensure the milk is added gradually to the roux while whisking continuously to maintain a smooth consistency.

What can I serve alongside this casserole?A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables complement the dish well.

How do I store leftovers?Cool the casserole completely, cover, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.