Are you looking to make mealtime a breeze without sacrificing flavor? The recipe for “Easy Prepared Ahead” is here to save the day! This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious homemade meal without the stress of cooking everything from scratch. By preparing this ahead of time, you can simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat, giving you more time to relax and enjoy your evening. Let’s dive into the details and get cooking!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella)
– 1 package pasta (of your choice)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell pepper to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for a few more minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. While the meat sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Once the meat sauce is ready, assemble the dish in a baking dish or casserole dish. Start by layering half of the pasta on the bottom, then spoon over half of the meat sauce. Repeat with another layer of pasta and the remaining meat sauce.
6. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the dish.
7. At this point, you can cover the dish with foil and place it in the refrigerator if you want to prepare ahead. When you’re ready to eat, simply remove from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature while the oven preheats.
8. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and bake the dish, covered, for about 20-25 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melted.
9. If you prefer a crispy cheese topping, uncover the dish for the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
10. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious and easy prepared ahead meal!
This “Easy Prepared Ahead” recipe is a game-changer for your busy days. By taking the time to make this dish in advance, you’ll have a homemade meal ready to go whenever you need it. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner after a long day or trying to streamline your meal planning, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and simplify your cooking routine!