Layered pasta bakes

Introduction

Layered pasta bakes combine tender pasta, savory meat sauce, creamy white sauce, and melted cheese for a satisfying and flavorful dish. They are perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping, as they can be made in advance and reheated.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) pasta (e.g., penne or rigatoni)
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef or minced meat
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups marinara or tomato-based pasta sauce
• 2 cups white sauce (béchamel)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, olive oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta: Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Meat Sauce: In a skillet, sauté onions in olive oil until soft. Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in ground beef, cooking until browned. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix in the marinara sauce and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Assemble the Layers:
   • Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of a baking dish.
   • Add half of the cooked pasta, followed by half the meat sauce, a layer of white sauce, and half the shredded cheese.
   • Repeat the layers, finishing with cheese and Parmesan on top.
4. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
5. Cool and Serve: Allow the dish to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Conclusion

This pasta bake is a versatile and comforting dish that can be customized with additional vegetables, different cheeses, or alternative seasonings. Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It’s also freezer-friendly, making it an excellent choice for batch cooking.

For more details, visit the full recipe

Thank you for following me on  Facebook , Pinterest !