The Best Italian-Inspired Dinner: Pasta with Savory Meat Sauce and Creamy White Sauce

by
Pasta with Savory Meat Sauce and Creamy White Sauce.

Introduction

Indulge in a delicious Italian-inspired dinner with this recipe for Pasta with Savory Meat Sauce and Creamy White Sauce. This dish combines the rich flavors of seasoned minced meat, the smoothness of a velvety white sauce, and the comforting texture of perfectly cooked pasta. Topped with melted mozzarella, this meal is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

  • 150g (5.3 oz) pasta of your choice
  • Vegetable oil (as needed)
  • Salt (to taste)

For the Meat Sauce:

  • 600g (21.2 oz) minced meat
  • 1 large onion (finely chopped)
  • 2 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
  • 2 fresh tomatoes (chopped)
  • Oregano (to taste)
  • Sweet paprika (to taste)
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Black pepper (to taste)

For the Creamy White Sauce:

  • 40g (1.4 oz) butter
  • 1 leek stalk (chopped)
  • 2 tbsp (20g) flour
  • 2 cups (500ml) milk

For Topping:

  • 100g (3.5 oz) mozzarella cheese (grated)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cooking the Pasta: Al Dente Perfection

  1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water with a splash of vegetable oil to a boil. Add 150g of pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Crafting the Savory Sauce: A Burst of Flavor

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pan, heat a small amount of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until golden and fragrant.
  2. Add Vegetables and Meat: Add 1 chopped red bell pepper and 600g of minced meat to the pan. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through.
  3. Season the Sauce: Season with oregano, sweet paprika, salt, and black pepper to taste. Add 2 chopped fresh tomatoes and let the mixture cook for a few more minutes until the tomatoes soften.

3. Making the Creamy White Sauce: Velvety Smoothness

  1. Prepare the Sauce Base: In a separate pan, melt 40g of butter over medium heat. Add 1 chopped leek stalk and cook for a few minutes until softened.
  2. Create the Roux: Sprinkle 2 tbsp of flour over the leeks and stir to combine. Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.

4. Combining and Baking: Fusion of Flavors

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Mix Pasta with White Sauce: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the creamy white sauce until well coated.
  3. Assemble the Dish: Grease an ovenproof dish and spread the pasta mixture evenly in the dish. Pour the meat and tomato sauce over the pasta, spreading it out evenly.
  4. Add Cheese: Generously sprinkle 100g of grated mozzarella cheese over the top.
  5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

5. A Symphony of Flavors: Delight for the Senses

  1. Serve Warm: Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. The melding of pasta, savory meat sauce, creamy white sauce, and melted mozzarella creates a masterpiece 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 your favorite.
  • Use Lean Meat: Opt for lean minced meat for a healthier twist without compromising on flavor.
  • Add Red Wine: Add a splash of red wine to the meat sauce for a deeper, more complex flavor.
  • Garnish with Fresh Basil: Sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the finished dish for a burst of freshness.

Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your Dining Experience

Pair this delectable dish with a crisp green salad and a glass of robust red wine for a complete dining experience. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress.

Nutrition Information

  • Servings: 4
  • Calories per serving: 650 kcal
  • Total Fat: 35g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 140mg
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 7g
  • Protein: 36g

Conclusion

This Pasta with Savory Meat Sauce and Creamy White Sauce is an Italian-inspired dish that brings together rich flavors and comforting textures. With its perfect blend of seasoned meat, creamy sauce, and melted cheese, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying meal with loved ones, and take your dinner experience to the next level!