Savory Mince and Mushroom Pasta Bake

This Savory Mince and Mushroom Pasta Bake combines the heartiness of traditional Italian pasta dishes with a creative twist. Ground meat mingles with sautéed onions, garlic, and mushrooms, all enveloped in a rich tomato sauce. Topped with melted cheese, this dish is comforting and satisfying while remaining balanced and appealing. It’s a great option for a family dinner, providing a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

Ingredients:

• 300 g pasta (penne or rigatoni)
• 250 g minced meat (beef or turkey)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 400 g canned tomatoes, crushed
• 200 g mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 100 g grated cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the skillet, cooking until the mushrooms are softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Incorporate the minced meat into the skillet, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat.
6. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then stir in the dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce, mixing well.
8. Transfer the pasta mixture into a baking dish and sprinkle the grated cheese on top.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.