Baked Penne with Pork and Béchamel Sauce Recipe

Introduction

This Baked Penne with Pork and Béchamel Sauce is a comforting and delicious pasta dish perfect for family dinners or special gatherings. The combination of savory ground pork, tender penne pasta, and creamy béchamel sauce, topped with a golden, cheesy crust, creates a satisfying meal everyone will love.

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Pork Filling

• 400g penne pasta
• 500g ground pork
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 can crushed tomatoes (400g)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Béchamel Sauce

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk (750 ml), warmed
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Topping

• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Preparation Tips

1. Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercook the pasta as it will continue cooking in the oven.
2. Smooth Béchamel Sauce: Whisk constantly while preparing the sauce to avoid lumps.
3. Customize the Filling: Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the penne pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Pork Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until softened.
2. Add the ground pork, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Béchamel Sauce

1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to form a roux.
2. Gradually pour in the warmed milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens.
3. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and mix until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a large baking dish, spread a layer of cooked penne pasta. Top with the pork sauce and mix gently to combine.
3. Pour the béchamel sauce evenly over the pasta and pork mixture. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake the Pasta

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown on top.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the baked penne from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy!

Description

This Baked Penne with Pork and Béchamel Sauce is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich flavors and creamy textures. The hearty pork sauce pairs perfectly with the velvety béchamel and tender pasta, creating a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 480 per serving
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 430mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground pork with ground beef, chicken, or turkey for a different flavor.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

3. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, assemble the dish without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 10–15 minutes to the cooking time.

4. What cheese can I use as a topping?
Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, but you can also use cheddar, Gruyère, or a mix of cheeses for a richer flavor.

5. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Replace the ground pork with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach, and use vegetable broth if needed.

Recommendations

1. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil before serving for a pop of color and flavor.
2. Serve with Sides: Pair with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
3. Add a Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pork sauce for a spicy twist.

Conclusion

This Baked Penne with Pork and Béchamel Sauce is an easy, satisfying recipe that combines layers of tender pasta, rich pork sauce, and creamy béchamel, all topped with bubbly, golden cheese. Perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions, this dish will quickly become a family favorite!