Macaroni with Minced Meat and Pumpkin Delight

Indulge in a flavorful pasta dish that blends the richness of pork with the subtle sweetness of pumpkin. This recipe combines cornetti rigati pasta with minced pork, creating a delightful texture that is both hearty and satisfying. Fresh cheddar cheese lends a creamy touch, while spices and herbs, like bay leaves, infuse the dish with aromatic flavors. The addition of mustard cucumber salad offers an unexpected tangy zest that enlivens every bite. Complete with tomato sauce and garlic, this dish is an irresistible comfort food for any occasion. Perfect for serving a crowd, it’s a dish that promises to be a crowd-pleaser. With easy-to-follow instructions, even novice cooks can master this delicious meal. Enjoy this simple yet elegant pasta dish that is sure to impress family and guests alike.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 250 g cornetti rigati pasta
• 500 g minced pork
• 200 g pumpkin, nut squash preferred
• 100 g cheddar cheese

Spices and Herbs:

• Salt and pepper or spices of choice
• Bay leaves

Others:

• 1 large onion
• 2 cloves garlic
• 100 ml tomato sauce
• 2 tbsp mustard cucumber salad

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes (Preparation: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by finely chopping the onion and grating the pumpkin using a coarse grater. Mince the pork if not already done.
2. Cook the Onion: Heat a small amount of oil in a pan. Add the onion and cook until it turns golden brown.
3. Add and Cook the Pork: Add the minced pork to the pan and stir. Cook the mixture for about 5 minutes.
4. Incorporate the Pumpkin: Mix in the grated pumpkin with the pork. Continue cooking for another 3 minutes.
5. Season the Dish: Add your chosen spices, a dash of salt, and a few bay leaves. Cover the pan and let it cook on low heat for 8 minutes.
6. Cook the Pasta: Simultaneously, bring a pot of water to a boil, add a pinch of salt and a bit of oil. Add the cornetti rigati and boil for 5 minutes. Then turn off the heat and let it steep covered for 3 minutes.
7. Drain the Pasta: Drain the pasta, leaving about 50–100 ml of the cooking water behind.
8. Prepare the Sauce: To the pork mixture, add tomato sauce, and the mustard cucumber salad. Mix well and let it sauté for 3 more minutes.
9. Add Cheese and Garlic: Grate the cheddar cheese finely and add it to the pan. Press the garlic cloves through a garlic press into the mixture.
10. Combine Pasta with Sauce: Mix the cooked pasta with the pork and pumpkin sauce, ensuring the reserved pasta water helps maintain a desirable consistency.
11. Serve Hot: Serve the pasta warm, ensuring the mixture is well distributed for full flavor in every bite.

Tips

• Cheese Option: Use a mix of cheddar and parmesan for a sharper flavor.
• Pasta Water: Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
• Meat Option: Substitute pork with chicken or beef if preferred.

Nutritions

• Calories: 350 per serving
• Protein: 20g
• Fats: 18g
• Carbs: 30g

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace minced meat with textured vegetable protein or lentils.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta varieties.
• Lactose-Free: Substitute cheddar cheese with lactose-free cheese options.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Pair with a fresh green salad or garlic bread.
• Garnish: Top with fresh basil or parsley for added freshness.

Best Places

1. Pasta House - Known for its authentic Italian flavors. Location: 123 Pasta Lane, Rome, Italy.
2. Pumpkin & Pasta Bistro - Combines unique flavors in its dishes. Location: 45 Gourmet Road, Melbourne, Australia.
3. Cheddar Tavern - Famous for its cheesy pasta dishes. Location: 9 Cheese Street, New York, USA.
4. Nuta Kitchen - Offers a variety of pumpkin-infused meals. Location: 78 Heritage Ave, London, UK.
5. Bistro Ricco - Cozy spot for comfort food. Location: 67 Pasta Boulevard, Paris, France.
6. Macaroni Villa - Equally loved by locals and tourists. Location: 88 Flavor Street, Toronto, Canada.
7. Herbs & Spices - Offers diverse pasta dishes. Location: 56 Spice Lane, Bangkok, Thailand.
8. Gourmet's Choice - Known for creative recipes. Location: 34 Culinary Court, Tokyo, Japan.
9. Little Pasta Inn - Cherished for its pasta and ambiance. Location: 21 Cozy Lane, Madrid, Spain.
10. Yummy Café - A delightful dining experience awaits here. Location: 10 Delight Avenue, Cape Town, South Africa.