The Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake is a delectable dish that brings together tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce, all baked to perfection. This dish is the epitome of comfort food, making it ideal for family dinners or a cozy meal on a chilly evening. The combination of vibrant vegetables, hearty beef, and gooey cheese ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor. Follow this comprehensive recipe to create a delightful, home-cooked meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 250 g (9 oz) pasta (penne or your preferred type)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 60 g (2 oz) butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 400 ml (1 2/3 cups) milk
- 300 g (10.6 oz) cheddar cheese, grated
- 450 g (1 lb) ground beef
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Salt, pepper, oregano, and nutmeg (to taste)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. This will be the base of your bake, so ensure it’s cooked perfectly to absorb the flavors of the sauce and beef mixture.
2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk constantly to form a roux. Cook the roux for about 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color, indicating the flour is cooked. This step is crucial for thickening the sauce without imparting a raw flour taste.
Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue to stir as the mixture heats up and thickens, which should take about 5 minutes. The sauce should be smooth and slightly thickened.
Stir in half of the grated cheddar cheese, continuing to stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for a subtle warmth and depth of flavor. Remove the sauce from the heat and set aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables and Beef
In another large skillet, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrot, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions turn translucent. This mixture forms the aromatic base of the dish, adding depth and texture.
Add the chopped red and yellow bell peppers to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they are slightly tender but still vibrant in color. The peppers contribute a sweet and slightly tangy flavor, complementing the richness of the cheese sauce.
Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the ground beef to the empty side. Cook the beef until it is browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 6-8 minutes. Ensure the beef is well crumbled to evenly distribute throughout the pasta bake.
Stir in the tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. The tomato paste adds a tangy, concentrated tomato flavor that enhances the savory notes of the beef.
4. Assemble the Pasta Bake
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, beef mixture, and cheese sauce. Stir thoroughly to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and beef mixture. This step ensures that every bite of the bake is flavorful and rich.
Transfer the mixture into individual oven-safe ramekins or a large baking dish, depending on your preference. Ensure the mixture is spread evenly in the dish for uniform cooking.
Sprinkle the remaining grated cheddar cheese on top, creating a cheesy crust that will turn golden and bubbly in the oven.
5. Bake the Dish
Place the baking dish or ramekins in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on the dish, and bake until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. The baking process allows the flavors to meld together and creates a crispy, cheesy topping that adds texture to the dish.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the pasta from the oven and let it cool slightly for about 5 minutes. This makes it easier to serve and allows the flavors to settle. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil, if desired, for an added touch of freshness.
Serve the Cheesy Beef Pasta Bake hot, and enjoy this comforting, delicious dish with your family and friends. Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Nutrition Information
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Servings: 6
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
