Tagliarini
Tagliarini is a hearty, cheesy baked pasta dish featuring seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a medley of savory flavors. Topped with melted cheddar, it offers a comforting meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, combining rich textures and bold tastes in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the noodles according to the package instructions.
- Drain and rinse the noodles.
- In a large frypan, brown the ground beef.
- Add chopped onion and garlic to the beef and cook until starting to brown.
- Add canned tomatoes (chop if whole), tomato paste, kernel corn, salt, pepper, and pitted olives to the mixture.
- Return the cooked noodles to a large pan.
- Mix the noodles with half of the grated Cheddar cheese and the meat mixture.
- Pour the combined mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Top with the remaining grated Cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for the beef and use whole wheat noodles. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. This dish can be adapted to fit various tastes, similar to Meat Filled Jumbo Shells.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like a simple caprese salad or a side of roasted vegetables. For a fun twist, offer some spicy marinara sauce on the side for dipping, enhancing the flavor profile.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, approximately 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tagliarini contains roughly 1031 calories, with 24g protein, 163g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (58% of the Daily Value), protein (47% of the Daily Value), and calcium (44% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2022mg per serving (88% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together, making it even more delicious when served. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. Alternatively, you can bake it from frozen, but it may take longer to cook through.
What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese?
If you're not a fan of Cheddar, consider using mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor. For a sharper taste, try using aged Gouda or Gruyère. You can also mix different cheeses for a unique flavor profile, similar to the 4 Cheese Pasta for a cheesy delight.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).