A Mouthwatering Fusion of Flavor and Comfort
Prepare to elevate your pasta game with this extraordinary Bolo Gratin—a dish that transforms classic spaghetti and meat sauce into a decadent, cheese-covered masterpiece. Imagine layers of perfectly cooked spaghetti, rich ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a symphony of herbs, all blanketed under a golden, bubbling layer of mozzarella. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that promises to become an instant family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce
- Ground Beef: 500 g (17.6 oz)
- Dried Thyme: 1 tablespoon (15 g)
- Dried Rosemary: 1 tablespoon (15 g)
- Chili Powder: 1 tablespoon (15 g)
- Dried Oregano: 2 tablespoons (30 g)
- Paprika: 2 tablespoons (30 g)
- Salt: To taste
- Black Pepper: To taste
For the Pasta and Vegetables
- Spaghetti: 300 g (10.6 oz)
- Garlic Cloves: 2, minced
- Onion: 1 medium, diced
- Green Bell Pepper: 1, chopped
- Yellow Bell Pepper: 1, chopped
- Red Wine: 300 ml (10.1 fl oz)
- Tomato Sauce: 600 ml (20.3 fl oz)
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml)
For the Topping
- Grated Mozzarella Cheese: 250 g (8.8 oz)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Meat Sauce
- Sauté Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet
- Add diced onion
- Sauté until translucent
- Add minced garlic
- Cook for 1-2 minutes
- Brown the Beef:
- Add ground beef to the skillet
- Break up meat into small pieces
- Cook until no pink remains
- Drain excess fat if necessary
- Add Spices and Peppers:
- Stir in thyme, rosemary, chili powder
- Add oregano and paprika
- Incorporate chopped bell peppers
- Season with salt and pepper
- Create the Sauce:
- Pour in red wine
- Let simmer for 5 minutes
- Add tomato sauce
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes
Preparing the Pasta
- Cook Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil
- Cook spaghetti until al dente
- Drain and set aside
Assembling the Gratin
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Mix cooked spaghetti with meat sauce
- Ensure pasta is well-coated
- Prepare for Baking:
- Transfer mixture to a baking dish
- Spread evenly
- Top generously with grated mozzarella
- Bake:
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F)
- Bake for 30 minutes
- Cheese should be melted and golden
- Surface should be slightly crispy
Serving
Serve hot, straight from the oven, with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Nutritional Information
- Servings: 4-6
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 25g
Cooking Time and Preparation
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 50 minutes
- Difficulty: Moderate
Pro Cooking Tips
- Use high-quality ground beef for best flavor
- Don’t overcook the pasta—it will continue cooking in the oven
- Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes after baking
- Use freshly grated mozzarella for optimal melting
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
- Meat Alternatives:
- Use ground turkey or plant-based meat
- Mix in Italian sausage for extra flavor
- Cheese Options:
- Try a blend of cheeses
- Use dairy-free cheese alternatives
- Spice Modifications:
- Adjust chili powder to taste
- Add smoked paprika for depth
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Prepare components in advance and assemble before baking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Best frozen before adding the cheese topping.
What Side Dishes Pair Well?
Serve with a fresh green salad or garlic bread.
Is This Dish Spicy?
Mild to moderate heat, adjustable with chili powder.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store for up to 3 days
- Freezing: Freeze before final cheese layer
- Reheating: Warm in oven to maintain crispy top
Dive into this spectacular Bolo Gratin—a dish that promises to become a new family favorite!