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Classic Pasta Casserole with Meat Sauce and Cheesy Béchamel: A Comforting Family Favorite
When it comes to comforting, hearty meals, few dishes are as satisfying as a Classic Pasta Casserole with Meat Sauce and Cheesy Béchamel. This recipe takes the best elements of Italian-American cuisine—rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and pasta—and combines them in a way that is both filling and indulgent. With layers of flavor and a perfect balance of textures, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any dinner table.
Whether you’re feeding a large family, hosting a cozy gathering, or prepping for meal prep, this casserole delivers on both taste and convenience. The best part? It’s easy to make and can be customized with your favorite ingredients, making it the ultimate comfort food dish.
Why You’ll Love Classic Pasta Casserole with Meat Sauce and Cheesy Béchamel
This casserole brings together the best of both worlds—savory meat sauce and rich béchamel sauce—to create a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The meat sauce adds hearty, umami-rich flavors, while the béchamel sauce introduces a creamy, cheesy element that ties everything together.
The dish is also highly versatile. You can switch up the type of meat, add vegetables, or even change the cheese to suit your preferences. It’s a dish that’s easy to make ahead of time, and the leftovers taste even better the next day. Plus, it’s a great way to use pantry staples and transform them into something truly special.
Ingredients for Classic Pasta Casserole with Meat Sauce and Cheesy Béchamel
To make this comforting casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional, but adds depth to the sauce)
- 1/4 cup water or broth
For the Cheesy Béchamel:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- Pinch of salt and pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for flavor depth)
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb (450g) penne pasta (or any pasta shape you prefer)
- Salt (for pasta water)
For Assembling:
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
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