Here’s a delicious recipe for a Savory Pasta and Meat Bake that’s perfect for a comforting meal!
Savory Pasta and Meat Bake
Ingredients:
- Pasta: 12 oz (like penne or rotini)
- Ground meat: 1 lb (beef, turkey, or chicken)
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Bell pepper: 1, chopped (optional)
- Tomato sauce: 2 cups
- Italian seasoning: 1 tsp
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Mozzarella cheese: 2 cups, shredded
- Parmesan cheese: ½ cup, grated
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Fresh parsley or basil: for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the meat: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté until softened. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the meat: Add the ground meat to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Mix in the sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Combine: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce mixture. Mix in 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese.
- Transfer to a baking dish: Pour the pasta and meat mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
Enjoy!
This bake is hearty, cheesy, and perfect for leftovers too! You can customize it with your favorite veggies or spices. Enjoy your meal!
