Classic Baked Stellini Pasta with Meat and Béchamel Sauce
This comforting dish combines tender Stellini pasta, a flavorful meat filling, creamy béchamel sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese. Inspired by a family recipe, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 500g Stellini pasta
- 50g butter
- 15g flour
- 500ml milk
- 100g grated hard mozzarella cheese
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 700g minced meat (beef, pork, chicken, or turkey)
- 200g tomato sauce
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Salt to taste
- Meat seasoning and a pinch of ground nutmeg
Instructions:
-
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). -
Cook the Stellini Pasta
Cook the Stellini pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. -
Prepare the Béchamel Sauce
In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a roux and cook for about 1-2 minutes until golden. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously until you get a smooth sauce. Cook until it thickens, then season with salt and a pinch of nutmeg. Set aside. -
Cook the Meat Filling
Heat a little vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant and soft. Increase the heat, add the minced meat, and cook until browned. Season with salt, meat seasoning, and any additional spices you prefer. Pour in the tomato sauce, reduce the heat, and let simmer for a few minutes. -
Assemble the Dish
Grease a baking dish with a bit of oil or butter. Start by layering half of the cooked Stellini pasta at the bottom. Spread 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. -
Add Cheese and Bake
Evenly sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese over the top of the dish. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. -
Serve
Let the dish rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. Serve warm, and enjoy the delicious flavors that bring back memories of family gatherings.
Tips:
- Even Layering: Ensure each layer is spread evenly for a consistent flavor in every bite.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to tweak the seasoning to suit your taste.
- Pairing: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Conclusion:
This hearty and wholesome baked Stellini pasta dish, inspired by grandmother’s timeless recipe, brings together the comforting tastes of pasta, meat, and cheese. Whether enjoyed on a busy weeknight or shared at a family gathering, it is a recipe that is not only satisfying but also preserves the culinary traditions of the past. Enjoy this meal and the cherished memories that come with it!