Egyptian Macarona Bechamel Recipe

Egyptian Macarona Bechamel is a beloved comfort food from the Middle East that combines layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, and creamy béchamel sauce into a deliciously, satisfying dish. This meal is a staple in many Egyptian households and is often served during special occasions or large family gatherings. If you’re a fan of hearty, layered casseroles, this recipe is one you’ll want to add to your repertoire.

Let’s start by gathering your ingredients. There are 3 parts to this recipe: The pasta, the meat sauce and the showstopping bechamel sauce. I’ve outlined the ingredients you’ll need for each part below:

For the pasta:

• 4 quarts water
• 1 Tbs salt
• 16 oz penne pasta

For the meat sauce:

• 1 Tbs butter
• ½ onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb ground beef
• 15 oz can tomato sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp thyme

For the bechamel sauce:.

• 1 cup butter
• 1 cup flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 4 cups milk

Preparing the Pasta Base

The foundation of Egyptian Macarona Bechamel is, of course, the pasta. For this recipe, penne pasta works best as its tubular shape holds onto the sauces, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Plus, it holds its shape quite well after baking, making it easy to slice into. Start by bringing 4 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot, adding a tablespoon of salt to enhance the pasta’s flavor. Then, cook the pasta until it’s al dente, which typically takes around 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you move on to the meat sauce.

Crafting the Savory Meat Sauce

The meat sauce is the heart of this dish, providing a rich and robust flavor that perfectly complements the creamy béchamel. Begin by melting a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until they’re soft and fragrant. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Next, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once the beef is browned and cooked through, drain any excess fat from the skillet. Stir in the tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme, allowing the mixture to simmer for another 5 minutes.

Whisking Up the Perfect Béchamel Sauce

The creamy béchamel sauce is what sets Egyptian Macarona Bechamel apart from other pasta dishes. To make it, melt a cup of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Gradually add the flour, whisking continuously to form a smooth roux. Slowly pour in 2 cups of milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken. Add the remaining 2 cups of milk and whisk until the sauce is creamy and lump-free. Season with a teaspoon of salt to enhance the flavor of the sauce.

Assembling the Dish

With all the components ready, it’s time to assemble the dish. Start by mixing about 1 cup of the béchamel sauce with the cooked pasta to ensure it’s evenly coated. This step helps the pasta hold together when the dish is baked. Next, spread half of the pasta mixture in the bottom of a greased 9 x 13 inch baking dish. Then, evenly distribute the meat sauce over the pasta layer. Top with the remaining pasta, creating a delicious layered effect.

The Final Bechamel Layer

The last step before baking is to pour the remaining bechamel sauce over the top of the assembled pasta and meat layers. Use a spatula to spread the sauce evenly, ensuring that the entire surface is covered. This thick, creamy layer will form a golden crust as the dish bakes, adding flavor, texture and a unique aesthetic effect.

Baking to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake the Macarona Bechamel for 45 minutes. During this time, the bechamel sauce will thicken further and develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. The meat and pasta will also meld together, creating a cohesive dish that’s packed with flavor. Once done, allow the casserole to cool slightly before slicing it into portions.

Serving up this Egyptian Macarona Bechamel!

Egyptian Macarona Bechamel is best served in generous slices, with each layer clearly visible. The combination of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, and creamy béchamel is sure to be a hit at any dinner table. Pair this dish with a simple green salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Whether you’re new to Egyptian cuisine or a seasoned fan, this recipe is a delicious way to experience the comforting flavors of the Mediterranean.

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Try these savory Egyptian dishes next!

1. Egyptian Goulash (Meat & Spinach Pie)
2. Egyptian Molokhia
3. Egyptian Beef & Okra Stew

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