Baked Stellini Pasta with Meat

by

Baked Stellini Pasta with Meat

Introduction

Baked Stellini Pasta with Meat is a comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole that combines tender pasta, savory minced meat, silky béchamel sauce, and a golden mozzarella topping. Stellini, with its small star-shaped form, gives the dish a fun texture while holding onto the creamy sauce beautifully. This baked pasta is hearty, rich, and perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or whenever you’re craving a warm, homemade meal.

Ingredients

For the Pasta & Sauce

  • 500 g Stellini pasta

  • 50 g butter

  • 15 g flour

  • 500 ml milk

  • 100 g hard mozzarella cheese, grated

  • 1 onion, finely chopped

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 700 g minced meat (beef, pork, chicken, or turkey)

  • 200 g tomato sauce

  • Vegetable oil, as needed

  • Salt, to taste

  • Meat seasoning (optional), to taste

  • Ground nutmeg, a pinch

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) to ensure even baking.

2. Cook the Stellini Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

  • Cook pasta until al dente (firm but not soft).

  • Drain and set aside.

3. Make the Béchamel Sauce

  • In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

  • Stir in flour to form a roux and cook for 1–2 minutes.

  • Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until smooth and thickened.

  • Season with salt and a pinch of nutmeg.

  • Remove from heat.

4. Cook the Meat Mixture

  • Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan.

  • Add onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.

  • Add minced meat, cooking until browned and crumbly.

  • Season with salt and optional seasoning.

  • Stir in tomato sauce and simmer briefly.

5. Assemble the Dish

  • Lightly oil a baking dish.

  • Layer in order:

    1. Half the pasta

    2. Half the meat mixture

    3. Half the béchamel sauce

  • Repeat with remaining pasta, meat, and sauce.

6. Add Cheese Topping

  • Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

7. Bake

  • Bake for 20 minutes, until golden, bubbly, and crisp on top.

8. Rest & Serve

  • Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before slicing.

  • Serve warm and enjoy creamy, cheesy layers of comfort!

Tips & Variations

  • Swap Stellini for elbow macaroni or penne if preferred.

  • Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor.

  • For a spicier kick, stir in a pinch of red chili flakes to the meat sauce.

  • Use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a stronger cheesy finish.

Leave a Comment