Description
Creamy Macarona Bechamel Pasta is a comforting and indulgent dish made with pasta, ground beef, and a rich, creamy bechamel sauce. This traditional Mediterranean dish is perfect for special occasions or a hearty family meal.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne or elbow macaroni works best)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- For the Bechamel Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and garlic to the beef and cook for another 3–4 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in the cinnamon, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add tomato sauce and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Set aside.
- For the bechamel sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes to create a roux.
- Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
- Season the bechamel with salt, white pepper, and nutmeg. If desired, stir in mozzarella cheese for extra creaminess.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef mixture. Pour the bechamel sauce over the pasta and stir gently to combine.
- Transfer the pasta to a greased baking dish and top with extra mozzarella cheese if desired.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with mushrooms or lentils.
- If you prefer a richer sauce, you can add heavy cream instead of some of the milk.
- Serve with a side salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
