My grandmother's recipe for the tastiest dinner that can be prepared in about ten minutes

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the Stellini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:

Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour to form a roux and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
Season with a pinch of nutmeg and a little salt. Set aside.

Cook the Meat:

Heat a little vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
Sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant.
Increase the heat to high and add the minced meat. Cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked.
Season with salt, meat seasoning (if using), and any additional spices you’d like.
Stir in the tomato sauce and let the mixture simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Assemble the Dish:

In a baking dish, spread half of the cooked pasta evenly across the bottom.
Layer half of the meat mixture on top of the pasta.
Pour half of the béchamel sauce over the meat.
Repeat the layers: pasta, meat, and béchamel.

Add the Cheese and Bake:

Sprinkle the grated mozzarella evenly over the top layer.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy:

Once baked, allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serve warm, alongside a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Tips for Success:

Layering: Spread each layer evenly for the best flavor distribution in every bite.
Seasoning: Adjust the salt and seasoning to your taste preferences. Feel free to add herbs like oregano or basil for extra depth.
Serving Suggestion: A fresh green salad or a side of steamed vegetables pairs perfectly with this rich and hearty dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Balanced Nutrition: This dish provides a well-rounded combination of carbs from the pasta, protein from the meat, and calcium from the cheese. Serve with vegetables for an even more nutritious meal.
Comforting and Hearty: The rich, creamy béchamel sauce, paired with flavorful meat and gooey cheese, makes this a comforting dish for any occasion.
Nostalgic Flavors: Bringing a classic recipe back to life connects you to family traditions and cherished memories, making mealtime even more special.

Final Thoughts:

This baked Stellini pasta with meat and béchamel sauce is a family favorite that’s sure to bring comfort to the table. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients, it’s a dish that combines the richness of tradition with the ease of modern cooking. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe will leave everyone at the table satisfied and eager for seconds. Enjoy every bite and the stories that come with it!