Pasticcio
A hearty, cheesy baked pasta dish with savory beef and tomato sauce, accented with nutmeg and cinnamon — perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni as directed on the package; drain.
- Cook and stir ground beef and chopped onion in a 10-inch skillet until beef is light brown; drain.
- Stir in tomato sauce and salt.
- Spread half of the cooked macaroni in a greased 13 x 9 x 2-inch rectangular baking dish.
- Cover with the beef mixture.
- Mix 1/2 cup of the grated cheese with cinnamon; sprinkle over the beef mixture.
- Cover the beef mixture with the remaining macaroni.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes until heated through and cheese is bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a layer of béchamel sauce before the final cheese sprinkle. You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a meat substitute for a lighter option. If you don't have elbow macaroni, any short pasta will work well. Adding a pinch of crushed red pepper can enhance the flavor for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Serving Suggestions
Pasticcio is a hearty dish that pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad drizzled with vinaigrette to balance the richness. You might also serve it alongside garlic bread or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For an Italian twist, complement it with a glass of red wine, enhancing the flavors of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover pasticcio can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave or return the entire dish to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent the cheese from burning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pasticcio contains roughly 1495 calories, with 12g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 120g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (198% of the Daily Value), calcium (87% of the Daily Value), and iron (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2160mg per serving (94% 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 make pasticcio ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare pasticcio a day in advance. Assemble the layers in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply extend the baking time by about 10 minutes to ensure it's heated through.
Can I freeze pasticcio?
Absolutely! Pasticcio freezes well. Cool it completely after baking, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until hot.
What can I substitute for the cheese?
If you're looking for cheese alternatives, you can use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option, or try a plant-based cheese for a vegan version. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly from traditional cheese.
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).