There’s something truly magical about recipes passed down through generations — dishes that carry the essence of family warmth, the comfort of home, and the joy of sharing meals together. This particular recipe, lovingly handed down from my grandmother, is a perfect example. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that comes together quickly, yet bursts with rich flavors and nourishing ingredients. With only about ten minutes of active preparation (plus baking time), this dish blends simple ingredients into a wholesome and comforting dinner.
What You’ll Need:
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500 grams Stellini pasta — tiny star-shaped pasta that cooks fast and holds sauce perfectly
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50 grams butter — to add richness and create the base for the creamy sauce
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15 grams all-purpose flour — for thickening the béchamel sauce
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500 milliliters milk — whole milk gives the best creamy texture
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100 grams grated hard mozzarella cheese — for a golden, bubbling topping
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1 medium onion, finely chopped — adds a subtle sweetness and depth
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3 garlic cloves, minced — infuses the meat with robust flavor
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700 grams ground meat — beef, pork, chicken, or turkey, according to your preference
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200 grams tomato sauce — adds a fresh, tangy contrast
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Vegetable oil — for sautéing
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Salt, to taste
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A pinch of meat seasoning and a dash of dried nutmeg powder — for seasoning and warm spice notes
How to Prepare:
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) so it’s ready to bake your casserole to a perfect golden finish.
2. Cook the Stellini Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the Stellini pasta according to package directions until al dente — tender yet firm. Drain well and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Béchamel Sauce
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter gently. Stir in the flour to form a smooth paste (roux) and cook for about a minute, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Slowly add the milk while whisking until the sauce is silky smooth. Keep stirring until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Season lightly with salt and add a pinch of nutmeg for a subtle warm aroma.
4. Prepare the Meat Mixture
Heat some vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. Increase heat to medium-high and add the ground meat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned evenly. Season with salt and meat seasoning. Stir in the tomato sauce and let it simmer briefly to blend the flavors.
5. Assemble Your Dish
In a baking dish, spread half the cooked pasta evenly on the bottom. Top with half the meat mixture, then pour over half the béchamel sauce. Repeat these layers once more, finishing with a generous pour of béchamel on top.
6. Add Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese over the top layer. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
7. Rest and Serve
Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for a few minutes. This helps the layers set for easy serving. Enjoy warm, savoring the creamy, savory, and cheesy goodness.
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