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Macarona Bechamel

Creamy Macarona Bechamel to Warm Your Heart and Soul

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Enjoy the comforting flavors of Macarona Bechamel, a creamy Egyptian baked pasta dish perfect for family gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Egyptian
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 300 grams Macaroni Penne Pasta can use alternative pastas
For the Meat Mixture
  • 2 tablespoons Oil substitute with any cooking oil
  • 1 medium Onion yellow or white onions
  • 2 cloves Garlic (Chopped) fresh is best
  • 500 grams Ground Chicken or ground beef/lamb
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika smoked paprika adds depth
  • 1 teaspoon All Spice (Garam Masala) can substitute with a similar spice blend
  • 0.5 teaspoon Cinnamon Powder use sparingly
  • 1 teaspoon Salt to enhance flavor
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste adjust quantity to taste
  • 1 medium Capsicum (Bell Pepper) optional
For the Bechamel Sauce
  • 3 tablespoons Butter can substitute with oil for dairy-free
  • 3 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour gluten-free alternatives available
  • 3 cups Milk non-dairy milk can be used
  • 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper
For the Topping
  • 200 grams Mozzarella Cheese mix with cheddar for varied flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano (for topping) optional garnish

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Large skillet
  • saucepan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Macarona Bechamel
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the penne pasta and cook for about 8 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add ground chicken, paprika, all spice, cinnamon, salt, and tomato paste; cook for 20 minutes or until fully cooked.
  3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add milk, cooking until thickened for 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat mixture. Layer half into a greased baking dish, pour half of the bechamel, then the remaining pasta and meat, finishing with the rest of the bechamel.
  5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top and add chopped capsicum and oregano if desired.
  6. Preheat oven to 220°C (428°F). Bake for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden, broil for an additional 5 minutes for a crispy top.
  7. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Cut into squares and enjoy.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente, whisk continuously for a smooth bechamel, and taste meat mixture for seasoning adjustments before layering.

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