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10-Minute Comfort Food Pasta
Ingredients
- 500g stellini pasta
- 50g butter
- 15g all-purpose flour
- 500ml milk
- 100g shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 700g ground meat (beef, pork, chicken, or turkey)
- 200g tomato sauce
- Vegetable oil (for cooking)
- Salt, to taste
- Meat seasoning and a pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) so it’s ready when your dish is assembled.
2. Cook the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the stellini pasta until it’s al dente—tender but still slightly firm. Drain well and set aside.
3. Prepare the Creamy Béchamel Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook briefly to form a smooth paste. Gradually pour in the milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens into a creamy consistency. Season with salt and a small pinch of nutmeg if you like a subtle warmth.
4. Cook the Meat Filling
Heat a splash of vegetable oil in a skillet. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, then stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the ground meat and cook over high heat until browned and fully cooked. Season with salt and your preferred spices, then mix in the tomato sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
5. Assemble the Layers
In a baking dish, spread half of the cooked pasta evenly. Add half of the meat mixture on top, followed by half of the béchamel sauce. Repeat the layers once more to build a rich, hearty dish.
6. Bake to Perfection
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. Place in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Let the pasta rest for a few minutes after baking—this helps the layers set and makes serving easier. Then dig in and enjoy a warm, creamy, and satisfying comfort meal.
