Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
The first step in making a manganello is gathering all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound of penne pasta
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 cup of tomato sauce
- 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
Step 3: Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent. Next, add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4: Let it Simmer
Reduce the heat to low and let the meat sauce simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Assemble the Manganello
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a baking dish, combine the cooked penne pasta and the meat sauce. Mix well until all the pasta is coated with the sauce. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
Step 6: Bake and Serve
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Once done, remove from the oven and let the manganello cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves before serving.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Now that you know how to make a delicious manganello, it’s time to dig in and enjoy your creation. Serve it with a side salad and some garlic bread for a complete Italian feast that will please even the pickiest of eaters. Buon appetito!
There you have it – a step-by-step guide on how to make a fantastic manganello. Give it a try and impress your loved ones with your newfound cooking skills. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or for entertaining guests. Enjoy the unforgettable flavors and the satisfaction of creating a delicious homemade meal. Happy cooking!