Cheesy Baked Pasta with Ground Meat

Cheesy Baked Pasta with Ground Meat

Ingredients

**For the Pasta:**
– 8 ounces pasta (macaroni, penne, or your choice)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt for pasta water

**For the Meat Sauce:**
– 1 pound ground beef or ground pork
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste

**For the Cheese Sauce:**
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
– Salt and pepper to taste

**For Topping:**
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. **Cook 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 the pasta, toss with a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.

2. **Prepare the Meat Sauce:**
– In a large skillet, cook the ground meat over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
– Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is soft and translucent.
– Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

3. **Prepare the Cheese Sauce:**
– In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
– Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
– Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. **Assemble the Dish:**
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or individual baking bowls.
– Spread a layer of the cheese sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Add a layer of pasta, followed by a layer of the meat sauce. Repeat the layers, ending with a final layer of cheese sauce.
– Sprinkle the top with the shredded mozzarella cheese.

5. **Bake:**
– Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

6. **Serve:**
– Let the baked pasta cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy baked pasta with ground meat!

This comforting and cheesy dish is perfect for a family meal or a cozy dinner. Enjoy!