What a better way to appeal to everyone's healthy appetite with this easy-to-make, delicious dish.
Equipment
cutting board
large pot
large saucepan
small saucepan
measuring cups and spoons
whisk
9 x 13-inch casserole dish
Ingredients
1 lb (450 g) rigatoni
2 Tbsp (30 mL) butter, divided
1 each, small onion, carrot, celery stalk, diced
1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef or pork
2 cloves garlic, minced
28-oz (796 mL) can diced tomatoes
1 bay leaf
2 tsp (10 mL) dried basil
1/2 tsp (2 mL) each, dried oregano and thyme
3/4 tsp (4 mL) salt, divided
1/2 tsp (2 mL) pepper
2 Tbsp (30 mL) all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups (375 mL) milk
1 cup (approx 1/2 450 g container) ricotta
1 1/2 cups (375 mL) shredded mozzarella
Directions
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta 11 min or until al dente. Drain well, then return to pot. Meanwhile, melt 1 Tbsp (15 mL) butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, carrot and celery, cook 2 min. Add beef and garlic. Using a fork to break up meat, stir until no longer pink, about 5 min. Add tomatoes, herbs, 1∕2 tsp (2 mL) salt and pepper. Bring to a boil; simmer covered, stirring occasionally, for 10 min while preparing white sauce.
Melt remaining butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle with flour and remaining salt. Whisk about 1 min. Gradually whisk in milk. Bring to a boil then reduce heat; whisk 3 to 5 min until smooth and thickened.
Preheat broiler. Uncover meat sauce and simmer 5 more min. Discard bay leaf. Add meat sauce to drained pasta. Heat if needed. Transfer to a 9 x 13-inch (3 L) casserole dish. Top with dollops of ricotta. Drizzle white sauce over top, spread, if needed, to cover. Sprinkle with mozzarella. Broil 2 to 5 min or until cheese is bubbly.
Cooking tip: As with all sauces, make them your own. Taste and adjust seasoning to your preferences.
This easy and delicious snack is the perfect balance of sweet, savoury, and cheesy goodness. The ultimate snack for any time of day. Recipe created by Chef Ned Bell.
Fuel up for your next activity with this simple yet delicious meal-on-the-go. Once you have your oatmeal base, you can easily adjust the toppings and sweetener to taste and enjoy a delicious, satisfying boost anytime. Recipe created by Chef Ned Bell.