Pasta and minced pork pudding
Delicious Pasta and Ground Pork Casserole
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6
If you are looking for a recipe that combines comfort with delicious flavor, this pasta and ground pork casserole is the perfect solution. Inspired by culinary traditions, this recipe is simple and quick, making it ideal for a family meal or a dinner with friends. Each bite will take you on a journey of flavors and textures, from al dente pasta to juicy meat and aromatic vegetables.
Necessary ingredients:
- 200 g star-shaped pasta
- 2 l water for boiling
- Salt, to taste
- 2 green bell peppers
- 1 onion
- 300 g ground pork
- 2 canned tomatoes (peeled and in tomato juice)
- ½ teaspoon sweet paprika
- Dried oregano, to taste
- Dried basil, to taste
- 140 g yogurt
- 4 tablespoons milk
- 4 eggs
- Butter for greasing the pan
- 2 eggs, plus a pinch of salt to put on top of the casserole
- 2-3 tablespoons oil for sautéing the vegetables
Step by step:
1. Boiling the pasta: In a large pot, add 2 liters of water and a little salt. Place it over medium heat until it starts to boil. Once the water is boiling, add the star-shaped pasta. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Boil the pasta according to the package instructions (about 8-9 minutes), then remove from heat and cover the pot with a lid to keep it warm.
2. Preparing the vegetables: Meanwhile, prepare the vegetables. Remove the seeds from the bell peppers, wash them well, and chop them finely. Similarly, peel the onion, wash it, and chop it. In a saucepan, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and a little salt, then sauté the bell peppers and onion over medium heat until they become soft and aromatic (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Adding the meat: After the vegetables have softened, add the ground pork. Mix well and continue to sauté until the meat is well cooked and has an even color. This is the perfect time to add the peeled tomatoes, which you can puree with a food processor to obtain a smooth sauce. Pour the tomato sauce over the meat and let it simmer on low heat until the mixture reduces and thickens (about 10-15 minutes).
4. Mixing the ingredients: After the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process. Place the pasta in a large pot and add the meat mixture, sweet paprika, oregano, and dried basil. Mix well to combine the flavors.
5. Preparing the egg mixture: In a separate bowl, beat 4 eggs with the yogurt, milk, and a pinch of salt. Make sure the mixture is smooth, then pour it over the pasta and meat mixture. Mix again to distribute the ingredients evenly.
6. Preparing for the oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking dish with butter, then pour in the obtained mixture. Beat the remaining two eggs with a pinch of salt and pour them over the casserole for a crispy top layer.
7. Baking: Place the dish in the oven and let the casserole bake for 30 minutes or until it becomes golden and browned on top. The aroma that will fill your kitchen during this time is simply irresistible!
8. Serving: Once the casserole is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. It is served warm but is also delicious at room temperature. You can accompany it with a fresh salad or a yogurt and garlic sauce, which will add a pleasant contrast of flavors.
Practical tips:
- Optional ingredients: You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to enrich the flavor and add nutrients. Additionally, if you prefer a vegetarian version, you can replace the meat with mushrooms or tofu.
- Cheese variant: Add grated cheese (for example, mozzarella or feta) to the pasta mixture for an extra creamy note.
- Storage: The casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave, but we recommend enjoying it fresh out of the oven to appreciate its crispy texture.
Nutritional information:
This pasta and ground pork casserole is a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, and vitamins, thanks to the fresh vegetables. Each serving contains approximately 400-450 calories, depending on the exact amount of ingredients used. It is an excellent choice for a hearty meal, having a balance between proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of pasta? Yes, you can use pasta of any shape, but make sure the cooking time matches the instructions on the package.
2. Is this recipe suitable for children? Absolutely! It is a nutrient-rich and very tasty meal, perfect for the whole family.
3. What drinks pair well with this casserole? We recommend a fresh lemonade or a dry white wine to complement the flavors.
I hope this recipe inspires you to surprise your family and friends with a homemade delicacy! Bon appétit!
Ingredients: 200 g star-shaped pasta + 2 l of water for boiling + salt; two green bell peppers; one onion; 300 g minced pork; two tomatoes from a can of whole peeled tomatoes in tomato juice; half a teaspoon of sweet paprika; dried oregano; dried basil; 140 g yogurt; 4 tablespoons of milk; 4 eggs; salt. Additionally: butter for greasing the tray; two eggs + a pinch of salt for topping the pudding; 2-3 tablespoons of oil for sautéing the vegetables.
