Apple Cinnamon Pasta Bake
This unique and flavorful dish combines tender meat, al dente pasta, and a smooth applesauce-based sauce with a hint of warm cinnamon. The perfect combination of sweet and savory, this hearty pasta bake is sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving more.
ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 lb ground meat (beef or turkey)
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
steps
- 1.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2.
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 3.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, sauté until fragrant and translucent.
- 4.
Add the ground meat to the skillet and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika.
- 5.
In a separate pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Gradually whisk in flour until a thick paste forms.
- 6.
Slowly whisk in milk and chicken broth until smooth. Cook for a few minutes until the mixture thickens.
- 7.
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the applesauce and cinnamon until well combined.
- 8.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the meat mixture and pour the applesauce sauce over it. Mix well.
- 9.
Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- 10.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- 11.
Let it cool slightly, serve warm, and enjoy your delicious Apple Cinnamon Pasta Bake!