Hearty Pasta Bake with Mixed Meats and Vegetables

This delicious pasta bake combines the savory flavors of mixed meats with the freshness of vegetables, all topped with a golden layer of Gouda cheese. It is a comforting dish that's perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The pasta is cooked just until firm before being combined with sautéed onions and meat, giving it a rich and satisfying taste. The dish is highlighted by a combination of tomatoes, sweet corn, and peppers, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. The addition of garlic and oregano infuses it with an aromatic depth that is hard to resist. Baking this dish melds all these components together, making each bite a perfect blend of creamy cheese, hearty meats, and savory vegetables. The preparation takes a bit of time, but the end result is certainly worth the effort. With its natural ingredients and satisfying flavors, this pasta bake is sure to become a household favorite.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 250 g pasta shells (or any other shape)
• 1 onion
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 500 g mixed minced meat
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 green pepper
• 1 can sweet corn (net weight 285 g)
• 2 eggs
• 1 can tomatoes (net weight 400 g)
• 120 g Gouda cheese

Spices

• Salt
• Pepper
• 2 sprigs oregano (or 1 tsp dried oregano)

Preparation Time

• Total time: 80 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until almost al dente.
2. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Chop the onion finely.
4. Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté the onion until it becomes translucent.
5. Add the minced meat to the pan and cook until it is well browned.
6. Crush the garlic and add it to the meat, stirring to combine.
7. Strip the oregano leaves from the sprigs and add them to the meat mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
9. Cut the green pepper into small pieces and set aside.
10. Drain the sweet corn using a sieve.
11. In a large bowl, combine the pasta, meat mixture, green pepper, corn, eggs, and half of the grated Gouda cheese.
12. Grease a heatproof baking dish with some oil or butter.
13. Transfer the pasta mixture into the baking dish, spreading it evenly.
14. Using a fork, crush the canned tomatoes gently to release the juices, and pour them over the pasta mixture.
15. Sprinkle the remaining Gouda cheese evenly on top of the dish.
16. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
17. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
18. For a richer flavor, let the dish sit for a few minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and absorb into the pasta.
19. If desired, garnish with additional fresh oregano leaves before serving.
20. Serve warm, and enjoy the comforting blend of flavors and textures.

Tips

• **Use high-quality minced meat** for the best flavor.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, add chili flakes to the meat mixture.
• Consider using a mix of cheeses for more depth.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 550 per serving
• Protein: 25 g
• Fats: 30 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g

Variations

• Substitute beef with turkey or chicken mince for a leaner option.
• Use gluten-free pasta for those with dietary restrictions.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added freshness.
• Serve alongside a crisp green salad with vinaigrette dressing.
• Pair with a glass of red wine for an enhanced dining experience.

Best Places

• Il Pastaio - Known for its authentic Italian cuisine and warm ambiance. Location: 221 S Beverly Dr, Beverly Hills, California, USA.
• La Trattoria - Offers a rustic atmosphere with a selection of home-style pasta dishes. Location: Via Vicenza, 29, Rome, Italy.
• Trattoria da Enzo - Famous for its family recipes and generous portions. Location: Via dei Vascellari, 29, Rome, Italy.
• Pasta Divina - Renowned for its variety of handmade pasta. Location: Rue de la Montagne 16, Brussels, Belgium.
• Osteria Francescana - A modern twist on traditional Italian dishes. Location: Via Stella, 22, Modena, Italy.
• Da Adolfo - Experience coastal Italian cuisine right by the sea. Location: Via Laurito, 40, Positano, Italy.
• Pasta e Vino - Combines great wine with exceptional pasta. Location: 6200 N Federal Hwy, Boca Raton, Florida, USA.
• Pasta Bar - Innovative pasta dishes with seasonal ingredients. Location: Elizabeth St, Sydney, Australia.
• Ristorante Pasta e Basta - Offers delightful pasta varieties with live music. Location: Rozengracht 117, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
• L'arco Della Carita - Boasts traditional Tuscan dishes in a cozy setting. Location: Piazza della Libertà, 1, Florence, Italy.