Savory Beef Mince Pasta Bake: A Comfort Food Delight

Savory beef mince pasta bake is one of those delightful dishes that seamlessly combines comfort, flavor, and heartiness. 🍝 Whether you're feeding a hungry family or looking for a dish to impress friends, this pasta bake is sure to become a beloved recipe in your collection. With layers of tender pasta, rich beef mince, and gooey cheese, it's a meal that warms both the stomach and the soul. Let's dive into the ins and outs of this comforting casserole!

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The Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of a savory beef mince pasta bake lies in its simplicity. Here’s a breakdown of the primary ingredients you will need to create this culinary delight.

<table> <tr> <th>Ingredient</th> <th>Quantity</th> </tr> <tr> <td>Beef mince</td> <td>500 grams</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Pasta (penne or fusilli)</td> <td>300 grams</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Onion (finely chopped)</td> <td>1 large</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Garlic (minced)</td> <td>2 cloves</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Crushed tomatoes</td> <td>400 grams</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Cheddar cheese (grated)</td> <td>200 grams</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Oregano</td> <td>1 teaspoon</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Salt and pepper</td> <td>To taste</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Olive oil</td> <td>2 tablespoons</td> </tr> </table>

Important Note: Feel free to adjust the amount of cheese for extra creaminess or even incorporate other types of cheese for a unique flavor twist! 🧀

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Savory%20Beef%20Mince%20Pasta%20Bake%20ingredients" alt="Savory Beef Mince Pasta Bake Ingredients"> </div>

Preparing Your Savory Beef Mince Pasta Bake

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a pot of salted water and cook your chosen pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

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Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, which typically takes about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute until fragrant.

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Step 3: Cook the Beef Mince

To the skillet, add the beef mince and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Make sure it’s cooked all the way through (around 6-8 minutes). Drain any excess fat if needed.

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Step 4: Combine with Sauce

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

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Step 5: Combine Pasta and Beef Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef mixture. Ensure everything is well incorporated, which will result in a satisfying balance of flavors in every bite.

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Layering and Baking

Step 6: Layer the Bake

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a greased baking dish, layer half of the pasta and beef mixture at the bottom. Sprinkle half of the grated cheese over it. Then, add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the rest of the cheese.

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Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After this, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

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Serving Suggestions

After pulling your savory beef mince pasta bake from the oven, let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or garlic bread, providing a delightful contrast to the cheesy, hearty pasta.

Presentation

When serving, garnish with some fresh basil or parsley for an added touch of color and flavor.

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Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers (which might be hard to resist!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through, or microwave individual servings for quick enjoyment.

Important Note: This dish also freezes well for up to three months, so consider making a double batch for those busy weeknights! ❄️

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Conclusion

Savory beef mince pasta bake truly embodies the essence of comfort food. Its rich flavors, coupled with the delightful textures of pasta and cheese, make it a go-to meal for any occasion. Whether you're cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, this dish is sure to bring smiles to the table. Enjoy the wonderful aroma filling your kitchen as you bake this delightful casserole, and savor every delicious bite! 🍽️