A hearty and flavorful dish, perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends, is a Bolognese Pasta Bake. This classic Italian-inspired recipe combines rich Bolognese sauce with al dente pasta and gooey melted cheese, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and finely chopped
– 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup beef stock
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to the skillet with the beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef stock, then add the dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, bring to a simmer, and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Meanwhile, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until just shy of al dente. Drain and set aside.
6. Combine the cooked pasta with the Bolognese sauce in the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated.
7. Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
8. Sprinkle the grated mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta.
9. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
11. Once done, remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
12. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added freshness.
Enjoy this Bolognese Pasta Bake hot out of the oven, paired with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal. The layers of savory Bolognese, gooey melted cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta make this dish a winner for any occasion, sure to become a family favorite in no time.
