Pasta with Savory Meat Sauce and Creamy White Sauce

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Pasta with Savory Meat Sauce and Creamy White Sauce

Indulge in the ultimate Italian-inspired dinner with this Pasta with Savory Meat Sauce and Creamy White Sauce recipe. This dish combines the rich flavors of a hearty meat sauce with the smooth, velvety texture of a creamy white sauce, all topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the detailed step-by-step instructions to create this delicious meal.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

  • Pasta of your choice: 150g (5.3 oz)
  • Vegetable Oil: As needed
  • Salt: To taste

For the Meat Sauce:

  • Minced Meat: 600g (21.2 oz)
  • Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
  • Garlic Cloves: 2, minced
  • Red Bell Pepper: 1, chopped
  • Fresh Tomatoes: 2, chopped
  • Oregano: To taste
  • Sweet Paprika: To taste
  • Salt: To taste
  • Black Pepper: To taste

For the Creamy White Sauce:

  • Butter: 40g (1.4 oz)
  • Leek Stalk: 1, chopped
  • Flour: 2 tbsp (20g)
  • Milk: 2 cups (500ml)

For Topping:

  • Mozzarella Cheese: 100g (3.5 oz), grated

Nutrition Information

  • Servings: 4
  • Calories per Serving: 580 kcal
  • Protein: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 8g

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cooking the Pasta: Al Dente Perfection

Boiling the Pasta

  • Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add a splash of vegetable oil to prevent the pasta from sticking.
  • Add 150g (5.3 oz) of your chosen pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This typically takes around 8-10 minutes.
  • Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside.

2. Crafting the Savory Meat Sauce: A Burst of Flavor

Sautéing the Aromatics

  • In a large pan, heat a small amount of vegetable oil over medium heat.
  • Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté until the onion is golden and the garlic is fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Adding Vegetables and Meat

  • Add the chopped red bell pepper to the pan and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until softened.
  • Next, add 600g (21.2 oz) of minced meat to the pan. Cook, stirring frequently, until the meat is browned and cooked through.

Seasoning the Sauce

  • Season the meat mixture with oregano, sweet paprika, salt, and black pepper to taste.
  • Add the chopped fresh tomatoes and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices, creating a rich, flavorful sauce.

3. Making the Creamy White Sauce: Velvety Smoothness

Preparing the Sauce Base

  • In a separate pan, melt 40g (1.4 oz) of butter over medium heat.
  • Add the chopped leek stalk and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the leeks are softened and fragrant.

Creating the Roux

  • Sprinkle 2 tablespoons (20g) of flour over the leeks and stir to combine, creating a roux.
  • Gradually pour in 2 cups (500ml) of milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook the mixture until it thickens into a smooth, creamy sauce, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Combining and Baking: Fusion of Flavors

Preheating the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Mixing Pasta with White Sauce

  • In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the creamy white sauce, ensuring the pasta is well coated.

Assembling the Dish

  • Grease an ovenproof dish with a bit of vegetable oil or butter.
  • Spread the pasta mixture evenly in the dish, then pour the meat and tomato sauce over the pasta, spreading it out evenly to cover the pasta.

Adding Cheese

  • Generously sprinkle 100g (3.5 oz) of grated mozzarella cheese over the top of the dish.

Baking

  • Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.

5. A Symphony of Flavors: Delight for the Senses

Serving the Dish

  • Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to cut and serve.

Enjoying the Masterpiece

  • Serve this pasta dish warm, letting the combination of the savory meat sauce, creamy white sauce, and melted mozzarella create a symphony of flavors on your plate.

Tips for Perfecting Your Dish: Chef’s Secrets

  • Experiment with Pasta Shapes: Try different pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli to find the texture you like best.
  • Use Lean Meat: Opt for lean minced meat for a healthier twist without sacrificing flavor.
  • Add Red Wine: A splash of red wine in the meat sauce can deepen the flavors, adding complexity to the dish.
  • Garnish with Fresh Basil: Sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the finished dish for a burst of freshness and vibrant color.

Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your Dining Experience

Pair this delectable pasta dish with a crisp green salad and a glass of robust red wine for a complete Italian-inspired dining experience. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special gathering with friends, this recipe is guaranteed to impress and delight everyone at the table. Enjoy your culinary creation!