Prepare this make-ahead dinner for an easy weeknight meal.
This easy, cheesy pasta dish is perfect to prepare andfreeze to cookon busy weeknights.
Just prepare through step 5 and pop it in the freezer.
Credit:Greg Dupree
package shredded mozzarella cheese
13cupfine, dry breadcrumbs
Fresh basil for garnish
Directions
Preheat oven to 350F.
Cook pasta in a Dutch oven according to package directions.
Add garlic; saute 30 seconds.
Add beef; cook, stirring occasionally, 5 minutes or until crumbled and no longer pink.
Drain mixture, and return to skillet.
Stir tomato sauce, next 4 ingredients, and 1 tsp.
salt into meat mixture.
Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, and cook, stirring occasionally, 2 minutes.
Melt butter in a large saucepan over low heat.
Whisk in flour, and cook, whisking constantly, 2 minutes.
Gradually whisk in milk.
Stir in Parmesan cheese, pepper, and remaining 12 tsp.
Add sauce to pasta, stirring to coat.
Transfer pasta mixture to a lightly greased (with cooking spray) 13- x 9-inch baking dish.
Top with beef mixture, mozzarella cheese, and breadcrumbs.
Bake at 350F for 20 to 25 minutes or until mixture is bubbly and cheese is melted.
Let stand 10 minutes before serving.
Tips
Make It Ahead:Fix and freeze this dish (unbaked) for a hands-off dinner.
Let it stand 30 minutes before baking, and add 15 to 20 minutes in the oven.
