There’s nothing quite like the warmth and comfort of a home-cooked meal, is there? It’s like a big hug on a plate! One dish that has always brought my family together is my creamy beef mince and tomato pasta bake. It’s a delightful combination of tender pasta, rich beef, and a luscious tomato sauce, all topped with gooey melted cheese. Whenever I prepare this dish, I’m reminded of family gatherings, laughter, and the enticing aroma wafting through the house.
My kids used to dash into the kitchen, eager to help stir the pot or sprinkle on the cheese—those moments are priceless! And even now, when I make this dish, I can see their faces light up, just like when they were little. It’s these simple pleasures that make cooking so rewarding. This creamy pasta bake is not just a meal; it’s a tradition that brings everyone together around the table. I’m excited to share this recipe with you, and I truly believe it will become a cherished favorite in your home too.
Ingredients List
- 500g beef mince
- 400g pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 200ml cream
- 100g grated cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to adjust any of these ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you might consider using turkey or chicken mince instead of beef. And if you’re keen on whole grains, swapping in whole grain pasta will add some extra fiber to your meal. For a vegetarian twist, try using lentils or mushrooms in place of the beef. Don’t hesitate to toss in some veggies like spinach or bell peppers for even more nutrition. Cooking should be enjoyable, so make it your own!
How to Prepare Instructions
Step-by-Step Preparation
Let’s dive into making this delicious creamy beef mince and tomato pasta bake! First things first, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures it’s nice and hot when we’re ready to bake.
Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta—penne or fusilli works beautifully! Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside. No need to rinse it; we want to keep that lovely starch on it!
Now, grab a large skillet and heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until they soften and release their aroma—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Wow, the smell is heavenly already!
It’s time to add the beef mince to the skillet. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This should take around 5-7 minutes. Make sure there are no pink bits left. Once it’s browned, stir in the can of diced tomatoes, the cream, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer for about 10 minutes. This is where all those flavors meld together!
Now, combine the cooked pasta with the beef mixture. Stir well to coat the pasta in that rich, creamy sauce. Transfer everything into a baking dish and sprinkle the grated cheese on top. It’s time for the oven! Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Trust me, your kitchen will smell divine!
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is best enjoyed warm, but don’t rush—let those flavors settle a bit!
Tips for Success
Here are a few handy tips to ensure your creamy beef mince and tomato pasta bake turns out perfectly every time:
- Check Your Pasta: Don’t overcook your pasta. It should be firm since it will cook further in the oven.
- Meat Alternatives: As mentioned, turkey or chicken mince can make this dish lighter. If you opt for lentils or mushrooms, cook them beforehand to ensure they’re tender.
- Extra Veggies: Sneak in some chopped spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition. Just sauté them with the onion and garlic!
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix up your cheese! Mozzarella, cheddar, or even a sprinkle of parmesan can elevate the flavor.
- Safety First: Always keep an eye on your skillet while cooking, and don’t forget to use oven mitts when handling hot dishes!
Cooking should be fun and a little creative, so don’t hesitate to make it your own. Enjoy this comforting dish with your loved ones!
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional content of your meals can be really helpful, especially when you’re cooking for yourself or loved ones. Here’s a general overview of the nutritional values for a serving of creamy beef mince and tomato pasta bake, based on a serving size of one-fourth of the dish:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 25g
This dish offers a hearty balance of protein, carbs, and fats, making it a comforting and satisfying meal. Just remember, you can adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary needs, whether that’s reducing the fat content or boosting the fiber. I hope this gives you a better idea of what to expect when enjoying this delicious pasta bake!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Hearty: This creamy beef mince and tomato pasta bake is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy family dinners or when you need a warm meal to lift your spirits.
- Simple and Straightforward: The steps are easy to follow, making it an approachable recipe for cooks of all skill levels. You won’t be overwhelmed, and the results are always delicious!
- Quick Prep Time: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this dish ready to bake in no time. It’s a great option for busy weeknights!
- Flexible Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients to cater to your dietary preferences—whether that’s using turkey mince, whole grain pasta, or adding your favorite veggies.
- Make Ahead and Bake Later: This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to pop it in the oven, making it perfect for meal prep!
- Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a family favorite that everyone will enjoy, from kids to grandparents. You’ll love seeing those happy faces around the dinner table!
- Leftover Friendly: The leftovers taste just as good, if not better, the next day. It’s a great way to enjoy a hearty meal without the extra effort!
FAQ Section
How do I store leftovers?
Once your creamy beef mince and tomato pasta bake has cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s well-covered to keep that delicious flavor intact!
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap out the regular pasta for a gluten-free variety. There are many great options available, from rice pasta to chickpea pasta, so you can enjoy this dish without any gluten worries.
What can I do if I don’t have beef mince?
No problem at all! You can easily use turkey or chicken mince as lighter alternatives. If you prefer a vegetarian option, lentils or finely chopped mushrooms work wonderfully and still provide that hearty texture.
How can I add more vegetables?
Sneaking in some extra veggies is a fantastic idea! You can sauté some spinach, bell peppers, or even zucchini along with the onion and garlic at the beginning. This not only boosts the nutrition but also adds lovely flavors and colors to your dish.
Can I freeze this pasta bake?
Yes, you can! If you want to make this dish ahead of time, prepare it in advance, then cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap before freezing. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking. It’s a great way to have a comforting meal ready to go!
How do I reheat the leftovers?
To reheat, simply pop the leftovers in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can cover it with foil to prevent the cheese from browning too much. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, but the oven gives that lovely baked flavor back!
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Of course! To make it dairy-free, use a plant-based cream and dairy-free cheese. There are many great options available now that melt nicely and taste delicious. It’s all about making it work for you!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your creamy beef mince and tomato pasta bake, a few delightful side dishes can really enhance the meal experience! Here are some of my favorite pairings that work beautifully together:
- Garlic Bread: A warm, crusty garlic bread is the perfect complement. Just a few slices on the side, and you’ll have a lovely combination of flavors to soak up that creamy sauce!
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a nice crunch and brightness to the meal. It brings a refreshing balance to the richness of the pasta bake.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans can add a pop of color and nutrition to your plate. Drizzle a little olive oil and lemon juice on top to brighten their flavor.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can be a fun, crunchy side! The creamy dressing pairs nicely with the pasta bake and adds a nice texture contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: If you’re in the mood for something hearty, roasted carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers seasoned with herbs can be a wonderful addition. They’re easy to prepare, and the caramelization brings out their natural sweetness!
Don’t forget to add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, right before serving the pasta bake. It adds a lovely touch of freshness and makes the dish look even more inviting!
These sides not only complement the creamy beef mince and tomato pasta bake but also help create a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy. Happy cooking, and enjoy your delightful dinner with loved ones!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing and reheating your creamy beef mince and tomato pasta bake is simple, and it ensures you get to enjoy those delicious leftovers without any hassle!
Once the dish has cooled down a bit, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. Make sure to seal it well to keep all that lovely flavor intact. You can store it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you think you won’t finish it within that time, consider freezing it!
To freeze, you can either cover the entire baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil or portion it into smaller containers for individual servings. This way, you can easily grab just what you need later. The pasta bake can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing its delicious taste.
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, the reheating process is straightforward. If you’ve stored it in the fridge, simply preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Cover the baking dish with foil to keep the moisture in, and heat it for about 15-20 minutes until it’s warmed through. If you notice the cheese starting to brown too much, you can remove the foil for the last few minutes to let it crisp up a bit.
For quicker reheating, you can use the microwave. Just place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat it in 1-minute intervals until it’s hot. This method works well, but the oven gives that lovely baked texture back to the dish!
Enjoying your creamy beef mince and tomato pasta bake as leftovers can be just as delightful as the first time around. It’s all about making the most of your delicious cooking!
comforting pasta recipes
creamy pasta
balanced diet
Comforting Creamy Beef Mince and Tomato Pasta Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Creamy beef mince and tomato pasta bake is a comforting dish that combines tender pasta with a rich beef and tomato sauce, topped with creamy cheese.
Ingredients
- 500g beef mince
- 400g pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 200ml cream
- 100g grated cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
- Add beef mince to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, cream, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Combine the pasta with the beef mixture, stirring well.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with grated cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute beef mince with turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Use whole grain pasta for added fiber.
- For a vegetarian option, replace the beef with lentils or mushrooms.
- Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the dish
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: creamy beef mince and tomato pasta bake, pasta bake, beef pasta dish, comfort food
