This Baked Pasta Casserole with Meat and Vegetables is a hearty and delicious dish that combines the goodness of pasta, the richness of minced beef, and the freshness of various vegetables. It’s an ideal recipe for family dinners or gatherings, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Follow this detailed guide to create a mouthwatering casserole that will satisfy everyone at the table.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 4 eggs
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- Oregano (to taste)
- 1 cup cream (240 ml)
- 1 cup milk (240 ml)
- 1/2 cup flour (60 g)
- 1 tbsp baking powder (15 g)
- 8 oz pasta (250 g)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (30 ml)
- 1 white onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 18 oz minced beef (500 g)
- 7 fl oz tomato sauce (200 ml)
- 1 head cheese, shredded
- 1 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 eggplant, diced
- 2 sweet peppers, diced
- 5 large champignon mushrooms, sliced
- 14 oz chopped tomatoes (from a jar) (400 g)
- 6 cherry tomatoes, halved
- Small bunch of green onions, chopped
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Boil the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Meat and Vegetables:
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped white onion and cook until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Cook the Meat:
- Add the minced beef to the pan and cook until browned. Stir in the tomato sauce, chopped tomatoes, salt, black pepper, and oregano. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In another pan, sauté the red onion, diced eggplant, diced sweet peppers, and sliced mushrooms until tender. Add the sautéed vegetables to the meat mixture and combine well.
3. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- Mix the Egg Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs. Add the cream, milk, flour, and baking powder. Mix until well combined. Season with salt, black pepper, and oregano to taste.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat and vegetable mixture. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Add Egg Mixture:
- Pour the egg and cream mixture evenly over the pasta and meat. Top with shredded cheese.
5. Bake:
- Bake the Casserole:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the egg mixture is set.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish:
- Garnish with halved cherry tomatoes and chopped green onions. Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Baked Pasta Casserole with a side of green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any special occasion.
Health Benefits
This casserole is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The combination of vegetables provides vitamins and minerals, while the minced beef adds protein. The eggs and dairy contribute to the overall nutritional value, making this a balanced and satisfying meal.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 300mg
This recipe makes approximately 8 servings.
Conclusion
This Baked Pasta Casserole with Meat and Vegetables is a versatile and delicious dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this comforting casserole and share it with loved ones for a truly satisfying meal.
