Pasta pudding with beef

Pasta Bake with Ground Beef - A Comforting and Delicious Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Who doesn't love a meal that combines pasta, meat, and cheese? Pasta Bake with Ground Beef is a comforting dish, perfect for a family dinner or to be served at a gathering with friends. This recipe blends textures and flavors, offering a culinary experience full of taste. Let's discover together the necessary steps to achieve a perfect pasta bake!

A Brief History

Pasta bake is a dish that has gained popularity due to its versatility. Its origins can be found in home kitchens, where staple ingredients were often combined to create nourishing and filling meals. This recipe can be adapted based on available ingredients, and each cook can add a personal touch, making it unique.

Ingredients

- 300-350 g pasta (preferably penne or fusilli)
- 250-300 g ground beef
- 200-250 g cheese (you can use cottage cheese or mozzarella)
- 4 eggs
- 2 large onions
- 1-2 cloves of garlic
- Spices (oregano, salt, pepper to taste)
- 200 ml tomato juice
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- A few tablespoons of milk
- Butter (for greasing the dish)
- Parsley (fresh or pickled, for garnish)

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Pasta

Start by boiling the pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook them al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Once done, drain and set aside.

2. Cooking the Meat

In a large skillet, add a few tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the finely chopped onion. When it becomes translucent, add the grated garlic. Wait a few seconds for it to release its aroma, then add the ground beef. Cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the meat is nicely browned.

To add an umami note, pour in the soy sauce and season with oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Continue cooking for a few minutes, then add the tomato juice and a little water. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

3. Mixing the Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with a fork. Add the chosen cheese and mix well. In this mixture, incorporate a little milk and the tablespoon of tomato paste. Also, don't forget to add the chopped parsley, which will bring a special freshness.

Now, combine the cooked pasta with the meat mixture, ensuring that all ingredients are homogeneous.

4. Assembling the Bake

Grease a dish with butter and add the pasta and meat mixture. On top, pour the cheese and egg mixture. If desired, you can add a few thin slices of butter here and there for extra flavor.

5. Baking

Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat). Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy. It's the perfect time to relax and enjoy the aroma spreading throughout the house!

Serving and Suggestions

Once the bake is ready, let it rest for a few minutes before cutting. You can serve the bake warm, alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. A bottle of white wine or herbal tea will perfectly complement this comforting meal.

Nutritional Benefits

This pasta bake with ground beef is not only delicious but also nutritious. Pasta is an excellent source of carbohydrates, while ground beef provides essential proteins. Cheese and eggs contribute to calcium and vitamin intake, while vegetables add fiber and antioxidants. This is a balanced meal, ideal for recharging your energy!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Of course! You can try chicken, pork, or even ground turkey for a lighter option.

2. What kind of cheese is recommended?
Cottage cheese is an excellent choice, but you can also use mozzarella or feta cheese for a different flavor.

3. Can vegetables be added?
Absolutely! Vegetables like zucchini, carrot, or bell pepper fit perfectly into this dish. Add them to the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrients.

Possible Variations

If you want to bring a touch of innovation, you can try adding spices like cumin or sweet paprika for a deeper flavor. Additionally, replacing part of the pasta with quinoa or rice can provide an interesting texture and different nutritional benefits.

Personal Note

This pasta bake with ground beef is one of my favorite recipes because it is so versatile. Every time I make it, I remember the moments spent in the kitchen with family, where everyone added their secret ingredient. I encourage you to let your imagination soar and create your unique version!

Enjoy your meal!