Craving a comforting, cheesy dish that’s easy to whip up? This Gratin of Coquillettes with Raclette and Minced Meat is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Perfectly cooked pasta is coated in a creamy, cheesy raclette sauce, layered with seasoned minced meat, and baked until golden and bubbling. It’s like mac and cheese got a gourmet upgrade!
Ingredients
1. Coquillettes (Small Elbow Pasta) (300 g)
- Why? Coquillettes are the perfect shape to hold the sauce and cheese in every bite.
- Prep Tip: Cook the pasta al dente (a minute less than package instructions) since it will continue to cook in the oven.
2. Raclette Cheese (200 g, sliced or grated)
- Why? Raclette is rich, melty, and adds an unmistakable depth of flavor.
- Prep Tip: Remove the rind for easier melting and grate it if using a block for even distribution.
3. Minced Meat (300 g, beef, pork, or a mix)
- Why? It adds heartiness and protein to balance the richness of the dish.
- Prep Tip: Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices like paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor.
4. Onion (1 medium, finely chopped)
- Why? Onions bring a savory, slightly sweet base to the minced meat.
- Prep Tip: Dice finely so it cooks quickly and blends seamlessly with the meat.
5. Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
- Why? Adds a punch of aromatic flavor to the meat mixture.
- Prep Tip: Sauté briefly to avoid burning and bitterness.
6. Heavy Cream (150 ml)
- Why? Combines with the cheese for a luscious sauce that coats the pasta.
- Prep Tip: Warm the cream slightly before adding to avoid curdling.
7. Butter (1 tablespoon)
- Why? Enhances the flavor of the onions and garlic while keeping the dish rich.
- Prep Tip: Use unsalted butter so you can better control the saltiness of the dish.
8. Breadcrumbs (2 tablespoons)
- Why? Creates a golden, crispy topping that contrasts the creamy layers beneath.
- Prep Tip: Mix breadcrumbs with a touch of olive oil for even browning.
9. Salt, Pepper, and Nutmeg (to taste)
- Why? Nutmeg complements the cream and cheese beautifully, while salt and pepper enhance overall flavor.
- Prep Tip: Grate fresh nutmeg sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
How to Make the Gratin
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the coquillettes until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Minced Meat Mixture
In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant. Add the minced meat and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika or nutmeg. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the heavy cream. Stir in the raclette cheese, allowing it to melt completely. Season with a small pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Gratin
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a greased baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta. Spread the minced meat mixture on top, then layer with the remaining pasta. Pour the raclette cheese sauce evenly over the pasta layers, ensuring everything is well-coated.
Step 5: Add the Topping
Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top of the dish for a crunchy finish. Add an extra sprinkle of grated raclette if desired.
Step 6: Bake
Bake the gratin in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
Step 7: Serve
Let the gratin rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a touch of color and heat.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet for cooking meat
- Saucepan for the cheese sauce
- Baking dish (medium-sized)
- Sharp knife for chopping
- Grater (if grating raclette)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! If you don’t have raclette, Gruyère, Emmental, or even cheddar can be great substitutes. However, raclette gives the dish its signature gooey richness.
What type of meat works best for this recipe?
Ground beef, pork, or a combination works well. You can also substitute with ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the gratin up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I freeze the gratin?
Yes, the gratin freezes well. Let it cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Reheat in the oven until heated through.
What side dishes go with this gratin?
A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish. You could also serve it with roasted vegetables or steamed green beans.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Sure! Replace the minced meat with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a mix of diced vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian option.
How do I get the perfect golden crust?
Make sure your breadcrumbs are lightly oiled and evenly spread. You can also broil the gratin for the last 2-3 minutes to achieve that golden, crispy topping.
Conclusion
There you have it—your cozy and satisfying Gratin of Coquillettes with Raclette and Minced Meat! It’s a dish that warms the soul and brings people together, whether for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Don’t forget to share this recipe on Facebook or save it on Pinterest for your next comfort food craving. Bon appétit! 😊
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