Greek Pasta And Beef
A hearty Greek-inspired pasta dish featuring seasoned beef, creamy egg and Parmesan mixture, baked to perfection with rich tomato sauce and warm spices. Perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, cook beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain.
- Stir in tomato sauce, water, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and pepper. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Meanwhile, in a bowl, combine cooked macaroni, beaten egg, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- In a greased 3-quart baking dish, spread half of the macaroni mixture.
- Top with the beef mixture and then add the remaining macaroni mixture.
- Pour the tomato sauce over the top.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 45 to 50 minutes or until bubbly and heated through.
- Let stand for five minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped olives or feta cheese to the macaroni mixture. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked ground beef or even substitute ground turkey for a lighter option. To boost the nutritional value, toss in some spinach or sautéed bell peppers along with the beef. This dish is versatile, much like Mediterranean recipes, so feel free to experiment.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Greek Pasta and Beef dish with a simple Garden Tomato Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, pair it with garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables. A sprinkle of additional Parmesan on top when serving can enhance the flavors further. This meal is also perfect for sharing at a family gathering or potluck.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quicker option, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Greek Pasta And Beef contains roughly 497 calories, with 10g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), protein (20% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 960mg per serving (42% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Assemble the layers in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.
What can I do if I want a spicier version?
To add some heat to your Greek Pasta and Beef, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the beef mixture. You could also serve it with a side of spicy sauce or hot sauce for those who enjoy an extra kick. Experimenting with spices can really elevate the dish!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).