Ingredients
Method
Prepare the Bolognese Sauce:
- Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery, and sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and red wine (if using). Add the dried oregano, and dried basil, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the better the flavours will meld.
Cook the Paccheri Pasta:
- While the sauce is simmering, cook the Paccheri pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of Bolognese sauce on the bottom. Arrange the cooked Paccheri pasta over the sauce in an even layer.
- Pour the remaining Bolognese sauce over the pasta, ensuring it is well-coated.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top, followed by the shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminium foil and bake in the oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
Serve:
- Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.