Prepare the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne rigate pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
Drain the pasta and set aside.
Prepare the Beef Sauce:
3. Heat a splash of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
4. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and softened.
5. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, black pepper, meat seasoning, and paprika. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Remove from heat.
Prepare the Creamy Egg Mixture:
6. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Assemble the Dish:
7. Preheat your oven to 180°C (355°F).
8. Grease a large baking dish with butter.
9. Spread half of the cooked pasta in the dish. Pour half of the beef sauce over the pasta. Repeat with the remaining pasta and beef sauce.
10. Pour the creamy egg mixture evenly over the top of the dish.
11. Slice 1 tomato and arrange the slices on top of the dish. Sprinkle with grated mozzarella cheese.
Bake:
12. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Serve:
13. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
5 Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a side of garlic bread or toasted baguette slices.
Pair with a fresh green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for a burst of flavor.
Serve alongside roasted or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Top with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra zest.
Cooking Tips:
Use a mix of cheeses like Parmesan or cheddar for added flavor.
For a healthier version, substitute cream with Greek yogurt.
Add a pinch of red chili flakes to the beef sauce for a spicy kick.
Roast the tomatoes slightly before adding them to enhance their sweetness.
Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Nutritional Benefits:
A good source of protein from the beef and eggs.
Pasta provides energy-boosting carbohydrates.
Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like lycopene.
Dietary Information:
Contains gluten and dairy.
Not suitable for vegetarians.
Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximate):
Calories: 450
Protein: 25 g
Carbs: 38 g
Fat: 21 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sodium: 500 mg
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
A delicious and comforting one-dish meal.
Easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd.
Versatile and customizable with your favorite seasonings or vegetables.
A hearty option for meal prep or weeknight dinners.
Conclusion:
Baked Penne Pasta with Beef and Mozzarella is a comforting classic that combines tender pasta, a savory beef sauce, and creamy, melted cheese. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and savor the taste of homemade comfort food at its best!
10 Frequently Asked Questions with Answers:
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, ziti, rigatoni, or any sturdy pasta works well.
Can I substitute the cream?
Yes, use milk, half-and-half, or a plant-based alternative.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms make great additions.
How do I make it spicier?
Add red chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the beef sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.
What cheese works best?
Mozzarella is ideal, but you can mix it with Parmesan or Gruyère for more flavor.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, freeze it after baking or assemble and freeze it unbaked. Thaw and bake before serving.
What can I serve this dish with?
Garlic bread, salad, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly.
How do I prevent the pasta from becoming soggy?
Cook the pasta until al dente and avoid overbaking the dish.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great substitute.
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