Instructions:
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside. It will serve as the base of the dish, so make sure it’s perfectly cooked to absorb the flavors of the sauce and meat mixture.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and stir constantly to form a roux. Cook the roux for 1–2 minutes until it takes on a light golden color. This is important to thicken the sauce without it tasting like raw flour.
Slowly whisk in the milk while continuing to stir to avoid lumps. Keep cooking for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens. The sauce should be smooth and slightly thickened.
Stir in half of the grated cheddar cheese and mix until fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the Vegetables and Meat
In another large pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrot, and chopped garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until the vegetables are soft and the onions are translucent.
Add the chopped red and yellow bell peppers and cook for another 3–4 minutes, until they are slightly tender but still vibrant in color.
Push the vegetables to the side of the pan and add the ground beef to the empty space. Cook until browned and fully cooked through (about 6–8 minutes), breaking it up well so it mixes evenly with the pasta. Stir in tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Assemble the Pasta Bake
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, meat mixture, and cheese sauce. Mix thoroughly so the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and meat.
Transfer the mixture into individual oven-safe ramekins or a large baking dish. Spread it evenly so everything bakes uniformly.
Sprinkle the remaining grated cheddar cheese on top to create a crispy cheese layer that will turn golden brown and bubbly in the oven.
Bake the Dish
Place the baking dish or ramekins in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden and the cheese is bubbling.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy!
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