Pasta al Forno (Baked Pasta with Meat Sauce)
Description
Pasta al Forno is a beloved Italian comfort dish made with cooked pasta tossed in a savory tomato meat sauce, layered with béchamel and cheese, and baked until bubbling and golden. It’s the perfect weekend dinner or family-style meal that’s even better as leftovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the pasta and cook until just under al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Make the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium.
Add diced onion and cook until softened.
Add garlic and ground beef. Cook until browned.
Pour in crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer 10 minutes.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, toss cooked pasta with the meat sauce. Add half of the mozzarella and all of the béchamel, if using.
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Layer in Baking Dish
Spoon the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13" baking dish.
Top with remaining mozzarella and sprinkle with Parmesan.
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Bake and Serve
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Uncover and bake another 5 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 680kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 32g50%
- Saturated Fat 12g60%
- Trans Fat 0.5g
- Cholesterol 65mg22%
- Total Carbohydrate 68g23%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
