Pasta Bake
Indulge in the rich, cheesy goodness of a pasta bake, a dish that combines tender pasta with savory sauces, meats, and vegetables, all topped with a golden crust. This recipe is perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings. With its customizable ingredients and simple preparation, it’s a family favorite that satisfies everyone at the table. Dive into this culinary adventure and create a meal that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat!
Ingredients
- 300g pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 400g ground meat (beef, chicken, or turkey)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 400g canned tomatoes
- 200g mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 100g parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 of the dish): approximately 450 calories, 25g protein, 60g carbohydrates, 15g fat, and 3g fiber. This nutritional information is based on one serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the ground meat and cook until browned.
- Add canned tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce in a large bowl.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle mozzarella on top.
- Bake for 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, sprinkle with parmesan, and let cool slightly before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute ground meat with vegetables or plant-based proteins for a vegetarian option. You can also use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs, and swap mozzarella for a dairy-free cheese if desired.
Serving and Pairings
Pasta bake pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad and garlic bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light tomato basil soup or a glass of red wine for adults.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s completely cooled before freezing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta before baking can lead to mushiness.
- Not seasoning the meat and sauce well can make the dish bland.
- Using too much cheese may result in an overly greasy texture.
- Skipping the resting time before serving can affect the texture.
- Using a too-small baking dish can lead to overflow.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
- Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- For a spicy kick, include red pepper flakes in the sauce.
- Make it ahead of time and bake just before serving.
FAQs
Can I make pasta bake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta bake in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
What type of pasta works best for pasta bake?
Short pasta like penne, fusilli, or shells work best as they hold sauce and toppings well.
Can I use homemade sauce instead of canned tomatoes?
Absolutely! Homemade sauce can enhance the flavor of your pasta bake significantly.
Is pasta bake suitable for freezing?
Yes, pasta bake can be frozen. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring to an airtight container.
What can I serve with pasta bake?
Pasta bake goes well with salads, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
Pasta bake is a versatile and comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. With its rich flavors and cheesy goodness, it’s a meal loved by all ages. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the delightful experience of creating and sharing this delicious dish!
Pasta Bake
Ingredients
- 300 g pasta penne or fusilli
- 400 g ground meat beef, chicken, or turkey
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 400 g canned tomatoes
- 200 g mozzarella cheese shredded
- 100 g parmesan cheese grated
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the ground meat and cook until browned.
- Add canned tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce in a large bowl.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle mozzarella on top.
- Bake for 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, sprinkle with parmesan, and let cool slightly before serving.
