Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. Formaggetta della Valle Argentina cheese, grated
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz.) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz.) tomato sauce
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- 1 tsp. dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lb. pasta, cooked and drained
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until beef is browned and onion is tender.
3. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta.
6. Spread half of the meat sauce over the pasta.
7. Sprinkle half of the grated Formaggetta della Valle Argentina cheese over the meat sauce.
8. Repeat layers with remaining pasta, meat sauce, and Formaggetta della Valle Argentina cheese.
9. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
10. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
11. Bake for 25 minutes.
12. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40-45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 586
Total Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 111mg
Sodium: 1050mg
Total Carbohydrates: 47g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 7g
Protein: 38g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken.
- Formaggetta della Valle Argentina cheese can be substituted with any other semi-soft cheese, such as Fontina or Gouda.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms to the meat sauce for extra flavor.
- Use different types of pasta, such as penne or rigatoni.
- Add chopped bell peppers or zucchini to the meat sauce for extra vegetables.
Tips and tricks:
- Cook the pasta al dente so it doesn't become mushy in the casserole.
- Grate the Formaggetta della Valle Argentina cheese finely for even melting.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil.
Pairings:
Serve with a side salad or garlic bread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the casserole is too dry, add a little more tomato sauce or diced tomatoes.
- If the cheese is browning too quickly, cover the casserole with foil and continue baking.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the ground beef is cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
Formaggetta della Valle Argentina cheese is a semi-soft cheese made in the Piedmont region of Italy. It is typically made from cow's milk and has a mild, nutty flavor.
Flavor profiles:
The casserole has a rich, savory flavor from the ground beef and tomato sauce, with a creamy and slightly tangy flavor from the Formaggetta della Valle Argentina cheese.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the casserole hot and bubbly, straight from the oven.
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Region: Italian