Creamy Turkey and Bacon Spaghetti Bake

Ingredients

• 300 g (10.6 oz) spaghetti
• 200 g (7 oz) bacon, diced
• 1 purple onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 700 g (1.5 lbs) minced turkey
• 200 g (7 oz) tomato sauce
• 40 g (1.4 oz) butter
• 30 g (1 oz) all-purpose flour
• 500 ml (16.9 oz) milk
• 150 g (5.3 oz) hard mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Salt, ground black pepper, dried sweet paprika, and dried oregano (to taste)

Directions

1. Cook the Spaghetti:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
   • Heat a splash of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy. Remove and set aside.
   • In the same skillet, sauté the chopped purple onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent.
   • Add the minced turkey, season with salt, black pepper, sweet paprika, and oregano. Cook until the turkey is browned and cooked through.
   • Stir in the tomato sauce and cooked bacon. Simmer for 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
   • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
   • Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens.
   • Stir in half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and whisk until smooth. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
   • In a large baking dish, combine the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce. Toss until evenly coated.
   • Pour the cheese sauce over the spaghetti mixture and gently mix.
   • Top with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake the Spaghetti:
   • Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and golden brown.
6. Serve:
   • Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh oregano or parsley, if desired.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
• Pair with a glass of red wine for a cozy dinner.

Cooking Tips

• Use freshly grated mozzarella for better melting and flavor.
• Add a pinch of red chili flakes to the turkey mixture for a spicy kick.
• Cook the spaghetti slightly under al dente if you prefer firmer pasta in baked dishes.