This pasta casserole recipe is a hearty and delicious dish that’s perfect for family dinners. With layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheese, this casserole is sure to become a favorite.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 300g pasta
- 30g butter
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 30g flour
- 200 ml milk
- Olive oil (for cooking)
- Ginger (a small piece, grated)
- 300g minced meat
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 pepper, chopped
- Pepper mixture (to taste)
- 30g tomato paste
- 100g cheese (grated)
- Mozzarella cheese (for topping)
Directions
- Cook Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add 300g pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare White Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt 30g butter over medium heat.
- Add 30g flour and whisk to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually add 200 ml milk, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens. Set aside.
- Prepare Meat Sauce:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté until fragrant.
- Add 300g minced meat and cook until browned.
- Add the chopped onion, carrot, and pepper, and cook until vegetables are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper mixture to taste.
- Stir in 30g tomato paste and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Assemble Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a large baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta.
- Spread half of the meat sauce over the pasta.
- Pour half of the white sauce over the meat sauce.
- Sprinkle half of the grated cheese over the white sauce.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, meat sauce, white sauce, and grated cheese.
- Top with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta casserole with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers the next day.
Cooking Tips
- You can add extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the meat sauce for added flavor and nutrition.
- For a spicier kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
Nutritional Benefits
This casserole provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. It’s also a great way to include a variety of vegetables in your meal.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the minced meat with a plant-based meat alternative or additional vegetables.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and flour.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this pasta casserole for its rich and comforting flavors, easy preparation, and versatility. It’s a great dish for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Conclusion
This pasta casserole is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the hearty layers of pasta, meat sauce, and creamy cheese, and share this delightful dish with your loved ones. Bon appétit! 😊