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Creamy Cheese-Leek Pasta with Ground Meat

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Creamy Cheese-Leek Pasta with Ground Meat

🛒 Ingredients:

  • 300g pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli)
  • 400g ground meat (beef or mixed)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion (diced)
  • 2 garlic cloves (chopped)
  • 2 leeks (sliced into rings)
  • 150g cream cheese
  • 100ml cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 100g grated cheese (e.g., cheddar or gouda)
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)

👩‍🍳 Instructions:

  1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, cook the pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Ground Meat: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and cook the ground meat until it is browned and crumbles easily. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Add Onions and Garlic: Add the diced onion and garlic to the meat. Sauté until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
  4. Cook the Leeks: Add the sliced leeks to the skillet. Sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes, until the leeks soften.
  5. Make the Sauce: Stir in the cream cheese and cream. Mix well until a creamy sauce forms. Add the grated cheese and stir until melted.
  6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Mix the cooked pasta into the sauce until evenly coated.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

🍋 Tip:

Enhance the dish with a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor!

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti, rigatoni, or farfalle. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta also works well.

2. Can I substitute the ground meat with a vegetarian option?
Absolutely! You can use plant-based ground meat, lentils, or mushrooms as a vegetarian alternative.

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3. What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella are great options. For a stronger flavor, you can use blue cheese or Parmesan.

4. How can I make the dish lighter?
Use low-fat cream cheese and cream. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use a lighter cheese variety.

5. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to make the dish more nutritious.

6. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

7. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and pasta separately. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, mix in the pasta, and heat through.

8. Is it possible to freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked pasta with sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove.

9. What herbs can I use besides parsley?
You can use basil, thyme, or chives for different flavor profiles.

10. Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, but the sauce may be less creamy. To thicken the sauce, you can add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water.

Enjoy your Creamy Cheese-Leek Pasta with Ground Meat – a simple and hearty meal! 🍝🧀

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