- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the Stellini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Meat Sauce
- Heat a drizzle of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 3–4 minutes).
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground meat to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through (about 8–10 minutes), breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, season with salt, meat seasoning, and a pinch of nutmeg. Simmer for 5–7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Set aside.
3. Make the Béchamel Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk continuously to form a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens (about 5–7 minutes).
- Season the béchamel with salt, a pinch of nutmeg, and a small amount of grated mozzarella cheese for extra richness. Remove from heat.
4. Assemble the Dish
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked Stellini pasta with the meat sauce. Mix gently to coat the pasta evenly.
- Spread half of the pasta mixture in a greased baking dish.
- Drizzle half of the béchamel sauce over the pasta layer.
- Add the remaining pasta mixture, then top with the rest of the béchamel sauce.
- Sprinkle the remaining grated mozzarella cheese generously over the top.
5. Bake
- Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- For an extra crispy topping, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Let the dish cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil if desired.
- Enjoy every bite of this creamy, cheesy, and flavorful baked pasta dish!
Tips for Success
- Customize the Protein: Use a mix of beef and pork for a richer flavor or opt for ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or spinach into the meat sauce for added nutrition.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the dish ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Why This Recipe Works
This Creamy Baked Stellini Pasta with Meat Sauce combines tender pasta, a savory meat sauce, and a velvety béchamel into a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. The straightforward preparation ensures consistent results without requiring advanced cooking skills, while the customizable options allow you to tailor the recipe to your taste. Whether served as a standalone meal or customized with your favorite ingredients, this dish delivers big on flavor and satisfaction.
Conclusion: A Dish Everyone Will Love
Whether you’re craving something creamy and indulgent, looking for a way to simplify dinner prep, or simply want to indulge in a homemade treat, this Baked Stellini Pasta is sure to delight. Its bold flavors, satisfying textures, and practical preparation make it a standout recipe that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Plus, its adaptability means you can tailor it to suit any occasion.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on this pasta might just inspire others to try it too! 🍴✨
