Oven-baked pasta with meat

Baked Pasta with Meat – a delicious and comforting recipe that will bring joy to your table. This dish combines the intense flavors of tomato sauce with the juiciness of chicken breast and the creamy texture of Bechamel sauce. Plus, it's perfect for enjoying on a cool evening or at a family meal. Let's discover together how to prepare this wonderful dish!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

- 300 g pasta (preferably fusilli, but you can use any type of pasta)
- 1 chicken breast (about 300-400 g)
- 1 medium onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 cup tomato juice (about 300 ml)
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 1/2 cup white wine (125 ml)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oregano and basil, to preference

For the Bechamel sauce:

- 50 g butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 500 ml milk
- Nutmeg, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 50 g grated cheese

For topping:

- 100 g grated mozzarella

Step by step:

1. Boiling the pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add salt. When the water starts boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8-10 minutes. While the pasta is boiling, prepare the other ingredients. Once cooked, drain well in a colander and set aside.

2. Preparing the meat sauce: In a large skillet, add a few tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent. Add the grated carrot and continue to sauté until it softens, another 2-3 minutes.

3. Adding the ingredients: Cut the chicken breast into small cubes and add it to the skillet. Cook until it turns white, then add the tomato juice and white wine. Season with oregano and basil, salt, and pepper to taste. Simmer the sauce on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the meat is well cooked and the sauce reduces slightly, about 10-15 minutes.

4. Preparing the Bechamel sauce: In another pot, melt the butter over low heat. Add the flour, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Gradually pour in the milk, stirring constantly. Add salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Cook the sauce, stirring, until it thickens, then add the grated cheese and mix well until melted.

5. Assembling the dish: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). In a greased baking dish, add a layer of half the pasta. Spread the meat sauce over it, then cover with the remaining pasta. Pour the Bechamel sauce evenly on top, then sprinkle the grated mozzarella over the entire surface.

6. Baking: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the mozzarella is melted and beautifully golden.

7. Serving: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes the dish easier to portion. Serve warm, alongside a fresh green salad or a side of steamed vegetables for added freshness.

Practical tips:

- Choosing pasta: Fusilli are ideal due to their shape, which holds the sauce well. You can also experiment with penne or farfalle.
- Meat: You can also use turkey or pork, depending on your preferences. Additionally, you can omit the meat to create a vegetarian version by adding more vegetables.
- Bechamel sauce: If you want to save time, you can use store-bought Bechamel sauce, but homemade has a unique taste.
- Variations: You can add olives, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the meat sauce for a more complex flavor.
- Storing the dish: This dish can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, and the flavor improves as the ingredients meld.

Nutritional benefits:

- Pasta provides essential carbohydrates for energy.
- Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein.
- Vegetables bring important vitamins and minerals for a balanced diet.
- Dairy in the Bechamel sauce provides calcium and protein.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use whole grain pasta? Yes, whole grain pasta is a healthier option, rich in fiber.
- Can I freeze the dish? Yes, it freezes well. Make sure to portion it into airtight containers.
- What drinks pair best? A dry white wine or fresh tomato juice are excellent choices.

In conclusion, this baked pasta with meat recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to play with ingredients and flavors. I encourage you to try this recipe and personalize it to your taste. Enjoy the cooking moment and the delightful meals with your loved ones!

 Ingredients: 300 g pasta (you can use any type, I used fusilli) 1 chicken breast 1 onion 1 carrot 1 cup tomato juice 4 cloves garlic 1/2 cup white wine salt and pepper oregano and basil For the Bechamel sauce: 50 g butter 2 tablespoons flour 500 ml milk nutmeg salt and pepper 50 g cheese For sprinkling on top: 100 g mozzarella

 Tags:  paste chicken breast vegetables