Oven-baked bolognese pancakes with white sauce prove that a classic everyday recipe can be transformed into a surprising, complete, and incredibly flavorful meal. Prepared in a baking dish and finished in the oven, this dish stands out for its practicality and irresistible presentation.
This version is perfect for a family lunch, combining soft pancakes, juicy ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and a creamy white sauce that truly makes all the difference. It is also a crowd-pleasing recipe that both kids and adults love, without requiring complicated techniques.
If you are looking for an easy, budget-friendly meal that serves several people, this oven-baked pancake with white sauce and bolognese is an excellent way to change up your weekly menu.
Ingredients
For the ground beef (bolognese)
- 2.2 lb (1 kg) ground beef
- A drizzle of olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste (optional)
- Fresh herbs or parsley to taste
- About 1½ sachets (or cans) of tomato sauce
Substitution: ground beef can be replaced with shredded chicken or a sautéed plant-based protein.
For the white sauce
- 3½ tbsp butter (50 g)
- 3½ tbsp all-purpose flour (50 g)
- 2 cups (500 ml) milk
- A small amount of finely chopped onion (optional)
- Nutmeg to taste
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For assembly
- Prepared pancakes (traditional savory pancakes)
- Shredded cheese for topping
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a pan and sauté the onion until translucent.
- Add the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef, stirring well so it stays loose and juicy.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and fresh herbs. Set aside.
- In another saucepan, melt the butter and sauté the onion for the white sauce.
- Add the flour and stir until it forms a smooth paste.
- Cook briefly until it releases a light nutty aroma.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until thickened.
- Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Fill the pancakes with the ground beef and arrange them in a baking dish.
- Cover with the tomato sauce, then pour the white sauce on top.
- Finish with shredded cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) until golden and bubbly.
Chef’s Tips / Variations
- Add Parmesan or gorgonzola cheese to the white sauce for deeper flavor.
- For a more budget-friendly version, use only tomato sauce and cheese.
- Smoked cheeses add a special touch to the final gratin.
- This dish can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving.
Prep Time, Yield, and Difficulty
- Total time: approximately 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings
- Difficulty: easy
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use store-bought pancakes?
Yes. This recipe works perfectly with pre-made savory pancakes.
Can oven-baked pancakes be frozen?
Yes. Assemble the dish without baking, cover well, freeze, and bake when needed.
Can I skip the white sauce?
You can, but the white sauce is the highlight of this recipe. If preferred, use only tomato sauce and cheese.
Conclusion
These oven-baked bolognese pancakes with white sauce are the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a family favorite. Easy, creamy, and incredibly satisfying, they turn a simple lunch into something special.
If you enjoyed this recipe, leave a comment, save it for later, and share it with anyone who loves comforting homemade food.