Baked Spaghetti with Minced Meat and Cheese

Introduction

Indulge in the comforting and hearty flavors of Baked Spaghetti with Minced Meat and Cheese. This delightful dish combines tender spaghetti, savory minced meat, and a rich cheese sauce, all baked to perfection. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this casserole-style meal is sure to please everyone at the table. Follow our detailed instructions to create this delicious and satisfying baked spaghetti dish.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• Eggs: 4
• Spring Onions: 2-3 stalks, chopped
• Milk: 450 ml (1 3/4 cups)
• Spaghetti: 200 g (7 oz)
• Minced Meat: 400 g (14 oz)
• Onion: 1, finely chopped
• Garlic Clove: 1, minced
• Carrot: 1, grated
• Bell Pepper: 1/2 pc, diced
• Tomato: 1, chopped
• Flour: 4 tbsp (30 g)
• Butter: 50 g (1/4 cup)
• Vegetable Oil: 2 tbsp (30 ml)
• Salt: to taste
• Smoked Paprika: 1/2 tsp
• Black Pepper: to taste
• Grated Cheese: 100 g (1 cup)

Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti

1. Boil the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain the Spaghetti: Drain the spaghetti and set aside.

2. Prepare the Meat and Vegetables

1. Heat the Oil: In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Cook the Onion: Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Brown the Meat: Add the minced meat and cook until browned.
5. Add the Vegetables: Stir in the grated carrot, diced bell pepper, and chopped tomato. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
6. Season: Season with salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper to taste.
7. Set Aside: Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Prepare the Egg Mixture

1. Whisk the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, chopped spring onions, and milk until well combined.

4. Prepare the Cheese Sauce

1. Melt the Butter: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Make the Roux: Add the flour and whisk continuously to form a smooth paste (roux). Cook for about 1 minute.
3. Add the Milk: Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
4. Thicken the Sauce: Cook the mixture until it thickens and begins to bubble.
5. Add the Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in the grated cheese until melted and smooth.

5. Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with the meat and vegetable mixture.
3. Transfer to Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
4. Add Egg Mixture: Pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the spaghetti and meat.
5. Top with Cheese Sauce: Pour the cheese sauce over the top.

6. Bake

1. Bake the Casserole: Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the egg mixture is set.

7. Serve

1. Cool Slightly: Allow the baked spaghetti to cool slightly before serving.
2. Enjoy: Serve warm and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures.

Nutritional Information

Servings: 6

Nutritional Information per Serving:

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 35 grams
• Fat: 22 grams
• Saturated Fat: 10 grams
• Cholesterol: 180 mg
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fiber: 3 grams
• Sugar: 5 grams

Conclusion

Baked Spaghetti with Minced Meat and Cheese is a comforting and satisfying dish that brings together the best of pasta, meat, and cheese in one delicious casserole. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Follow our step-by-step guide to create this hearty and flavorful meal that everyone will love. Enjoy!