This hearty baked pasta casserole is the perfect comfort food, combining layers of tender pasta, savory minced beef, and sautéed vegetables. Topped with a creamy egg mixture and melted cheese, it’s a wholesome dish that is sure to please the whole family. Easy to prepare and bake, this casserole offers a balanced mix of protein, vegetables, and carbs, making it a great one-dish meal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Serves 6-8
- 4 eggs
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Oregano, to taste
- 1 cup (240 ml) cream
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk
- ½ cup (60 g) flour
- 1 tbsp (15 g) baking powder
- 8 oz (250 g) pasta (e.g., penne, fusilli, or rigatoni)
- Olive oil (for cooking)
- 1 white onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 18 oz (500 g) minced beef
- 7 fl oz (200 ml) tomato sauce
- 1 head of cheese (shredded; mozzarella or cheddar works well)
- 1 red onion, diced
- 1 eggplant, diced
- 2 sweet peppers, chopped
- 5 large champignon mushrooms, sliced
- 14 oz (400 g) chopped tomatoes (from a jar)
- 6 cherry tomatoes, halved
- A small bunch of green onions, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pasta
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, or slightly firm to the bite. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Al dente pasta is ideal in casseroles to ensure it doesn’t become too soft during baking.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped white onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Next, add the minced beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes. Stir in the tomato sauce and season with salt, black pepper, and oregano to taste. Let the meat mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Set it aside once done.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
In a separate skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced red onion, eggplant, sweet peppers, and sliced mushrooms. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened. Once they are tender, stir in the chopped tomatoes (from the jar) and season with salt and black pepper. Allow the vegetables to simmer for another 5-7 minutes. Set aside when done.
4. Prepare the Egg and Cream Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, milk, flour, and baking powder until well combined. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and oregano to taste. This mixture will provide a creamy texture and help bind the casserole as it bakes.
5. Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Grease a large baking dish with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Start by layering the cooked pasta evenly across the bottom of the dish. Next, add the cooked meat mixture on top of the pasta, spreading it out evenly. Follow this with the sautéed vegetables, distributing them over the meat layer.
Pour the egg and cream mixture evenly over the top, ensuring it seeps into all the layers of pasta, meat, and vegetables.
6. Add Cheese and Toppings
Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the entire casserole. Arrange the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped green onions on top for added flavor and a pop of color.
7. Bake the Casserole
Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. The casserole should be fully set and slightly crisp on top.
8. Serve
Once the casserole is done baking, let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting time helps the layers set and makes it easier to cut and serve neat portions.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 620mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 24g
Tips for the Best Baked Pasta Casserole:
- Pasta Choice: Short, sturdy pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work best as they hold their shape and sauce well during baking.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to mix cheeses for added flavor. Mozzarella gives a great melt, while cheddar or parmesan can provide a sharper, more complex taste.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a convenient dish for meal prep or gatherings.
This baked pasta casserole is a satisfying, flavorful dish that combines the best of savory meats, vegetables, and a rich, cheesy topping. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or just a comforting meal after a long day. Enjoy!