1. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
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- Heat a large pan over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil, then sauté the onion, garlic, and leek until translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced pork to the pan. Cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Pour in the red wine and allow to simmer for a few minutes until reduced slightly.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes. Season with salt and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently while you prepare the béchamel, stirring occasionally.
2. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne rigate and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Béchamel Sauce:
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- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir for a couple of minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg and season with salt to taste. Remove from heat and stir in half of the grated Parmesan cheese until smooth.
4. Combine the Dish:
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- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce. Pour in the béchamel sauce and mix well to ensure all the pasta is coated.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle the top with the remaining Parmesan and all of the grated mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
6. Serve:
- Let the dish cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Serving Suggestions:
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- Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
- Pair with a glass of red wine for a complete Italian dining experience.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Cooking Tips:
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- For a richer flavor in the meat sauce, consider adding a dash of Italian seasoning or some fresh herbs like basil or oregano towards the end of cooking.
- Ensure the béchamel sauce is seasoned well, as it brings a creamy balance to the tangy tomato and wine flavors.
Nutritional Benefits:
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- Pork: Provides a good source of protein and essential vitamins like B12.
- Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is beneficial for heart health.
- Cheese: A source of calcium and protein, contributing to strong bones and muscle health.
Dietary Information:
- Contains Dairy: The béchamel sauce and cheese make this dish unsuitable for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan.
- Contains Gluten: The pasta and flour in the béchamel sauce make this dish unsuitable for those with gluten intolerance.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Hearty and Comforting: This dish is perfect for a satisfying meal with layers of rich, savory flavors.
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