The Most Delicious Dinner in 10 Minutes: My Grandmother’s Classic Recipe
Ingredients:
- 500g Stellini pasta
- 50g butter
- 15g flour
- 500ml milk
- 100g grated mozzarella cheese
- 1 finely chopped onion
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 700g ground meat (beef, pork, chicken, or turkey)
- 200g tomato sauce
- Vegetable oil for cooking
- Salt to taste
- Meat seasoning and a pinch of ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Cook the Pasta:
Prepare the Stellini pasta by following the package instructions. Boil it in salted water until it reaches an al dente texture. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Gradually add the flour, stirring constantly to form a roux. Slowly pour in the milk while continuing to whisk until the mixture becomes smooth and thickened. Season with salt and a pinch of nutmeg. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Cook the Meat:
Heat a small amount of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and soft. Increase the heat, add the ground meat, and cook until browned. Season with meat seasoning and salt to taste. Once the meat is fully cooked, stir in the tomato sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes.
5. Assemble the Dish:
In a baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta. Add half of the meat mixture on top, followed by half of the béchamel sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, meat, and béchamel sauce.
6. Bake:
Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese evenly over the top layer. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
7. Serve:
Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the comforting warmth of this traditional recipe.
Helpful Tips:
- Even Layering: Ensure that each layer of pasta, meat, and sauce is spread evenly to guarantee a balanced flavor in every bite.
- Season to Taste: Adjust the salt and meat seasoning to suit your personal preferences.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve this dish with a light salad or steamed vegetables to create a well-rounded meal.
Nutritional Benefits:
This recipe provides a hearty balance of carbohydrates from the pasta, protein from the meat, and calcium from the cheese. When paired with vegetables, it offers a nutritious, satisfying meal suitable for those mindful of their health.
Conclusion:
Recreating my grandmother’s cherished recipe not only brings delicious flavors to the table but also preserves a culinary tradition that is simple, wholesome, and quick to prepare. Whether for a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, this dish will bring comfort and nostalgia with every bite. Savor the fusion of flavors and the shared memories that make this recipe so special.
