Ingredients for Grandma’s 10-Minute Dinner:
- 500 grams of Stellini pasta – Choose whole wheat pasta for added fiber, which promotes good digestive health.
- 50 grams of butter
- 15 grams of flour – For a gluten-free option, substitute with almond or coconut flour, which are great for low-carb diets.
- 500 milliliters of milk – Opt for low-fat or almond milk to reduce calories and keep the dish heart-healthy.
- 100 grams of grated mozzarella cheese (hard) – Cheese is a rich source of calcium, supporting bone health.
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced – Garlic is well-known for its antioxidant properties and may help boost your immune system.
- 700 grams of ground meat (beef, pork, chicken, or turkey) – Lean meats like chicken and turkey are lower in saturated fats, making this a heart-healthy choice.
- 200 grams of tomato sauce – Tomatoes are high in lycopene, which supports heart health and may reduce the risk of cancer.
- Vegetable oil (for cooking)
- Salt to taste
- Pinch of dried nutmeg powder
- Meat seasoning to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) to ensure the dish bakes evenly.
2. Prepare the Pasta
- Cook the Stellini pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside. Using whole wheat pasta can increase your fiber intake, supporting digestive health and helping regulate blood sugar levels.
3. Make the Béchamel Sauce
- Melt 50 grams of butter in a pan over medium-low heat.
- Gradually whisk in 15 grams of flour until smooth. For those with gluten intolerance, using a gluten-free flour is a great alternative.
- Slowly add 500 milliliters of milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Almond or low-fat milk can make this sauce lighter and healthier.
- Cook until the sauce thickens and season with a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook the Meat
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant. Garlic has anti-inflammatory properties, supporting heart health.
- Increase the heat, add the ground meat, and cook until browned. Ground turkey or chicken is ideal for those on a low-fat diet.
- Stir in the tomato sauce and simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
5. Layer the Dish
- In a baking dish, start with a layer of cooked Stellini pasta.
- Add a layer of the meat mixture, followed by a layer of béchamel sauce.
- Repeat the layers to ensure the dish is flavorful and rich in texture.
6. Bake with Mozzarella
- Sprinkle 100 grams of grated mozzarella cheese on top. This cheese is an excellent source of calcium, promoting bone health.
- Bake for 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
7. Serve and Enjoy
- Once baked, allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm and enjoy the heartiness of this comforting meal.
