Miniature Pasta Pies (timpana Muffins)

Miniature Pasta Pies, also known as Timpana Muffins, are a delightful and savory dish from Maltese cuisine. These individual-sized pasta pies are perfect for serving at parties or as a unique addition to your meal.

Miniature Pasta Pies (timpana Muffins)

Ingredients

  • 250g short pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 400g ground beef
  • 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 200g ricotta cheese
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 100g grated Parmesan cheese
  • 12 cherry tomatoes, halved

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
  3. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Stir in the diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
  5. In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, beaten eggs, and Parmesan cheese.
  6. Divide the pasta mixture among the muffin cups, pressing it firmly into the bottom and up the sides.
  7. Spoon the meat mixture into each pasta-lined cup, then top with a halved cherry tomato.
  8. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the pasta pies are golden and set.
  9. Let the mini pasta pies cool in the muffin tin for 5 minutes before carefully removing them.
  10. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
30 minutes
Cooking time:
25 minutes
Total time:
55 minutes
Cooking method
Oven

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
280 per serving
Carbohydrates
32g
Protein
12g
Fat
11g

Supplies

12-cup muffin tin Mixing bowl Skillet

Tools

Oven Cooking spoon Knife

Serving suggestions

Serve the Miniature Pasta Pies with a side salad and a glass of red wine for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

You can customize the filling by adding different vegetables or using ground chicken or turkey instead of beef.

Cost

$15