Hearty Baked Pasta with Minced Meat and Cheese

This hearty baked pasta dish combines the rich flavors of minced meat, creamy sauce, and melted cheese, creating a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress with its delicious layers and comforting warmth.

Ingredients

1 teaspoon salt, plus more for seasoning
250 grams noodles (or your favorite pasta)
1 shallot, finely chopped
Vegetable fat (for frying)
300 grams minced meat
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon oregano
Black pepper, to taste
3 eggs
3 tablespoons cream
100 grams cheese, grated

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and the noodles.
Cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.

2. Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) to prepare for baking.

3. Prepare the Meat Mixture:

In a frying pan, heat some vegetable fat over medium heat.
Add the minced meat and finely chopped shallot.
Fry for 9-10 minutes or until the meat is fully browned and the shallot is translucent.
Season with paprika, oregano, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
Remove from heat and set the meat mixture aside.

4. Mix the Egg Cream:

In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and a pinch of salt until well combined.

5. Assemble the Dish:

Grease an oven-safe dish lightly with some vegetable fat.
Spread the cooked minced meat mixture evenly at the bottom of the dish.
Layer the cooked pasta over the meat.
Pour the egg and cream mixture evenly over the pasta.
Sprinkle the grated cheese generously on top, covering the egg mixture.

6. Bake:

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.

7. Serve:

Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly for a few minutes.
Serve hot, garnished with a bit more fresh oregano or parsley if desired.

Additional Tips

Pasta Choice:

While noodles are suggested, feel free to use any pasta like penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti cut into manageable lengths.

Cheese Options:

Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella for stringiness or a sharp cheddar for more depth of flavor.

Serving Suggestion:

This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness.

Cooking Tips for Perfection

Pasta Doneness:

Cook the pasta al dente as it will continue to soften when baked. This prevents it from becoming too mushy after baking.

Layering:

Ensure even layers of meat and pasta to distribute flavors uniformly throughout the dish.

Baking Time:

Keep an eye on the oven during the final minutes of baking to prevent the cheese from burning. The goal is a beautifully bronzed top layer.

Nutritional Information

This dish is high in protein and carbohydrates, making it an energy-rich meal option. For a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat pasta, leaner cuts of meat, and low-fat cheese. These substitutions help maintain the delicious flavors while reducing calorie intake.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this baked pasta hot from the oven, ideally accompanied by a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette or a side of steamed green beans for added freshness. This helps cut through the richness of the dish and balances the meal.

Why This Recipe Works for Family Dinners

This pasta bake is a practical choice for busy weeknights as it can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before dinner. It’s also highly customizable; ingredients can be swapped based on dietary preferences or whatever you have on hand. Plus, it’s a great way to involve kids in the kitchen, letting them layer the ingredients or sprinkle the cheese.

Perfect for Leftovers

Not only does this dish serve well hot out of the oven, but it also makes for excellent leftovers. The flavors continue to meld and develop when refrigerated, and it reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave, making it a convenient and tasty option for lunch the next day.

Conclusion

Enjoy your baking adventure with this simple yet delicious baked pasta dish, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual dining occasion. Bon appétit! 🍝

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?
- Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type.
What can I substitute for minced meat?
- You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a different flavor profile or to suit dietary preferences.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
- Omit the meat and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. You can also use a meat substitute like lentils or tofu.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What other cheeses can I use?
- Besides mozzarella, you can try cheddar, gouda, parmesan, or a combination for a richer flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
- Yes, you can freeze the assembled (but unbaked) dish. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
What can I serve with this pasta bake?
- Serve with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to complete the meal.
How can I make this dish lighter?
- Use whole wheat pasta, leaner ground meat, and low-fat cheese. You can also add more vegetables to reduce the amount of pasta.
Can I add other seasonings or herbs?
- Absolutely! Feel free to add fresh or dried herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary to enhance the flavor.