Savory Pasta and Meat Bake is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together tender pasta, flavorful minced meat, and a creamy cheese sauce. This dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a satisfying blend of textures and tastes that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 500g pasta
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- Finely chop 1 raw sweet red pepper.
- 600g minced meat
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 leek stalk, finely chopped
- 40g butter
- 20g flour
- 500ml milk
- 100g hard mozzarella cheese, grated
- Some vegetable oil
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste.
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Coat a generously sized baking dish with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the pasta following the instructions on the package until it reaches the desired firmness. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat some vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and sweet red pepper. Sauté the vegetables until they become tender and release a fragrant aroma.
- Add the minced meat to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes and leek. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes break down slightly.
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Mix in the flour to create a roux, cooking it for 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook the sauce until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the sauce with salt and ground black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and stir in half of the grated mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the meat and vegetable mixture in the skillet. Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the pasta mixture, tossing gently to coat everything evenly.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Scatter the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese evenly across the surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
Conclusion:
Savory Pasta and Meat Bake emerges from the oven with a golden crust and a tantalizing aroma that promises a delightful dining experience. Each bite combines the richness of creamy cheese sauce with the hearty flavors of minced meat and fresh vegetables, making it a favorite among both young and old alike. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting dish as a satisfying meal any day of the week.