Description
This Meaty Skillet Bucatini Pie is a hearty and flavorful one-pan dish combining al dente bucatini pasta with a rich, savory meat sauce baked under a layer of melted cheese. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, this recipe balances the robust flavors of ground beef, aromatic vegetables, and herbs, all brought together in a skillet for easy preparation and clean-up.
Ingredients
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Pasta and Topping
- 8 oz bucatini pasta
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add bucatini pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a spoon.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained bucatini to the skillet and toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the meat sauce.
- Assemble the Pie: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the top of the pasta and sauce mixture. Finish with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let the pie rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use an oven-safe skillet to avoid transferring the mixture to another dish for baking.
- For a spicier pie, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat sauce.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Adding a handful of chopped fresh parsley to the sauce can enhance freshness.
