The Most Delicious Dinner in 10 Minutes: My Grandmother’s Recipe

Step 2: Preparing the Béchamel Sauce

The Béchamel sauce (a creamy white sauce) adds a luscious, velvety layer that brings all the components of this dish together.

1. In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Once the butter has melted, gradually whisk in the flour to create a smooth paste, known as a roux. The roux acts as a thickener for the sauce. Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, but be careful not to brown it.
3. Slowly pour the milk into the roux while whisking continuously. Adding the milk gradually ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce.
4. Continue to cook and whisk until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Season with a pinch of salt and a dash of nutmeg for that classic touch of warmth and flavor.
5. Once the Béchamel sauce reaches the desired consistency, set it aside. It will be used to create creamy layers in the bake.

Step 3: Cooking the Meat Filling

The meat filling provides the heartiness of this dish, offering protein and robust flavors that complement the pasta perfectly.

1. Heat a little vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
2. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
3. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the minced meat of your choice. Break the meat apart with a spatula and cook until it is completely browned. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
4. Season the meat with salt, meat seasoning, and any other preferred spices. Feel free to add a touch of black pepper or paprika for extra depth.
5. Once the meat is cooked through, pour in the tomato sauce. Stir well to combine, allowing the flavors to meld together. Simmer the mixture for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Remove the pan from the heat and set the meat filling aside.

Step 4: Assembling the Dish

The layering process is where all the magic happens! Here’s how to assemble your pasta bake:

1. Take a baking dish and lightly grease it with vegetable oil or butter to prevent sticking.
2. First Layer: Spread half of the cooked Stellini pasta evenly across the bottom of the dish.
3. Second Layer: Add half of the prepared meat filling on top of the pasta, spreading it out evenly.
4. Third Layer: Pour half of the creamy Béchamel sauce over the meat layer. Use a spoon to spread the sauce evenly.
5. Repeat the layers: Add the remaining pasta, followed by the rest of the meat filling, and finish with the remaining Béchamel sauce.
6. Topping: Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese generously over the top. The cheese will form a deliciously golden, bubbling crust when baked.

Step 5: Baking the Dish

1. Place the assembled dish into the preheated oven and bake it for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden brown and bubbling.
2. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Allowing it to cool slightly helps the layers set, making it easier to serve.

Serving Suggestions

This Stellini Pasta Bake is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with:

• A light green salad with a zesty vinaigrette.
• Steamed or roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or green beans.
• Garlic bread or crusty baguette for a satisfying crunch.

Useful Tips

1. Layering Tip: Spread each layer evenly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor and texture.
2. Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning based on your preference. Feel free to add herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme for an extra burst of flavor.
3. Cheese Choices: While mozzarella is perfect for this recipe, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or parmesan for added richness.
4. Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great time-saver for busy days!

Why This Dish Is Special

This Stellini Pasta Bake isn’t just a meal; it’s a trip down memory lane. It combines the satisfying elements of tender pasta, savory meat, creamy Béchamel sauce, and melted cheese, all baked to perfection. Whether you’re serving it for a regular family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is bound to leave everyone at the table feeling happy and full.

The simplicity of the recipe makes it approachable for beginner cooks, while the flavors and presentation ensure it’s impressive enough for guests. It’s a recipe that reminds us of home, family, and the power of sharing food made with love.

So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and bring this heartwarming meal to life in your own kitchen. Share it with loved ones, and savor the stories and memories it creates around your table.

Enjoy every delicious bite!