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Baked Pasta with Minced Meat and Béchamel Sauce

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Baked Pasta with Minced Meat and Béchamel Sauce

This baked pasta dish is a hearty and satisfying meal that marries tender pasta, savory minced meat, and a creamy béchamel sauce. A staple in Mediterranean and Italian-inspired cuisines, this recipe brings comfort to the table with its rich flavors and irresistible layers. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

With its golden crust and flavorful filling, this baked pasta is a classic that never goes out of style, blending simplicity with elegance.

A Brief History of Baked Pasta Dishes

Baked pasta, or “pasta al forno,” is a traditional Italian dish with roots in rustic cooking. It was originally created as a way to repurpose leftover pasta and sauces, combining them into a casserole-like meal. Over time, variations have emerged across regions, with béchamel sauce becoming a hallmark in some recipes for its creamy richness. This recipe captures the essence of this culinary tradition while adding a modern twist.

Ingredients for Baked Pasta with Minced Meat and Béchamel Sauce

For the Pasta Layer:

  • 400g penne or rigatoni pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt

For the Minced Meat Sauce:

  • 500g minced beef or lamb
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 400g canned crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

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