Ingredients
For the Cheese Sauce:
40 g butter
2 tablespoons flour
500 ml milk
A bunch of spring onions, chopped
150 g hard Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Beef Mixture:
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
600 g minced beef
300 g chopped canned tomatoes in their juice
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
300 g penne rigate pasta
150 g hard mozzarella cheese, grated
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the penne rigate and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped spring onions and sauté until soft.
3. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until a smooth paste forms.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce.
5. Remove from heat, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Set aside.
3. Cook the Beef and Tomato Mixture:
1. In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant and translucent.
3. Add the minced beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked.
4. Stir in the chopped canned tomatoes with their juice. Simmer for about 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Dish:
1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta with the beef and tomato mixture. Mix well.
3. In a greased baking dish, add half of the pasta mixture.
4. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the pasta and sprinkle with half of the grated mozzarella.
5. Add the remaining pasta mixture, top with the remaining cheese sauce, and sprinkle with the rest of the mozzarella.
5. Bake:
1. Place the baking dish in the oven.
2. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
6. Serve:
1. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
2. Serve with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Additional Details
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Calories: 600 kcal per serving
Servings: 6
Tips & Suggestions
Serving Suggestions: Pair with red wine (e.g., Chianti or Sangiovese) and garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor.
Cooking Tips: Use high-quality cheeses for better flavor. Cook pasta al dente to avoid overcooking.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Dietary Note: Contains gluten, dairy, and meat. For a vegetarian version, substitute the beef with plant-based meat or vegetables.
Enjoy this rich, cheesy, and comforting Italian-inspired baked penne! Perfect for family dinners or special gatherings.