Ramadan Recipe: Bechamel Pasta Bake

Ramadan Recipe: Bechamel Pasta Bake

Bechamel Pasta Bake, or Macarona Bechamel, is a beloved Egyptian dish often served during Ramadan. With layers of perfectly cooked pasta, a savory meat sauce, and creamy bechamel sauce, it’s the ultimate comfort food. The rich, cheesy goodness and hearty flavors make it a perfect dish for family gatherings and iftar meals, offering both satisfaction and indulgence after a long day of fasting. This classic recipe brings together tradition and flavor, making it a must-try during the holy month. 

Read More: Ramadan Recipe: Dubai Chocolate Samosa

This recipe was crafted by our esteemed culinary advisor, Chef Sarah. 

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This article was previously published on UAE Moments. To see the original article, click here

  • Ingredients of Bechamel Pasta Bake

    • 45 Minutes
    • 8 Serving
    • 601 Calories

Bechamel Sauce

4 cups milk
6 tbsp butter
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
Salt and pepper to taste
⅛ tsp ground nutmeg
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated parmesan cheese

Meat Sauce

1 tbsp Olive Oil
1 onion, finely diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup tomatoes, finely diced
Salt and pepper to taste
500 grams ground beef
1 ½ tbsp all-spice
1 tbsp garlic powder
4 tbsp tomato paste
½ cup stock (meat or vegetable)

Pasta

350 grams penne pasta (or ziti noodles)
3 tbsp parmesan cheese

  • Method & Directions of Bechamel Pasta Bake

    • 20 Minutes
  1. Make the Roux
    تم نسخ الرابط
    In a saucepan, melt the butter and then add the flour. Stir to create a roux. Reduce heat slightly and allow it to caramelize lightly before gradually adding the milk while stirring constantly.
  2. Season the Bechamel
    تم نسخ الرابط
    Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg to the roux while stirring over medium heat until it begins to thicken. Once thickened, stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan until melted. Set the bechamel aside.
  3. Cook the Onion and Garlic
    تم نسخ الرابط
    Heat olive oil in a skillet and add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion becomes translucent, then add the diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
  4. Add the Meat
    تم نسخ الرابط
    Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it into small pieces. Once it is almost fully cooked, season with all-spice, garlic powder, and adjust salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Add Stock and Tomato Paste
    تم نسخ الرابط
    Stir in the tomato paste and allow it to cook with the meat for a few minutes. Then, add the stock and mix well. Let the mixture simmer for a few more minutes before removing it from the heat.
  6. Cook the Pasta
    تم نسخ الرابط
    Boil water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  7. Assemble
    تم نسخ الرابط
    Spray a large casserole baking dish with cooking oil. Add the cooked pasta and toss with salt, pepper, and parmesan cheese. Spread the meat sauce over the pasta, then pour the bechamel over it, spreading evenly.
  8. Bake
    تم نسخ الرابط
    Top the casserole with more parmesan cheese and bake in a preheated oven at 200°C for 45 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  9. Let it Rest and Serve
    تم نسخ الرابط
    Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
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