"Pastichio Me Crema Salsa" - Macaroni And Meat Casserole
Pastichio Me Crema Salsa is a rich Greek-inspired macaroni and meat casserole with creamy Romano cheese and cinnamon notes, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in a little water in a large frying pan; add ground beef and brown.
- Pour off excess grease, if any.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon salt, pepper, and a dash of cinnamon to the beef mixture.
- Dissolve tomato paste in 1/2 cup water, then add to hamburger mixture.
- Lower flame and simmer for about 15 minutes or until water is absorbed.
- Set aside.
- In another large saucepan, put water and 2 teaspoons salt; bring to a boil.
- Add macaroni and boil for about 10 minutes or until done.
- While macaroni is boiling, combine 1/2 cup milk, 1/4 cup butter, 1 1/2 cups grated Romano cheese, 1 tablespoon flour, and the beaten eggs to make the crema.
- When macaroni is cooked, drain and return to the saucepan.
- Add the crema mixture to the macaroni and toss lightly.
- Set aside until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or chopped bell peppers to the beef mixture. If you don't have Romano cheese, Parmesan or a blend of Italian cheeses can work as a substitute. For a bit of heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes. This dish is also perfect for using leftover cooked meat, making it a versatile option for busy weeknights.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad drizzled with vinaigrette. For a Mediterranean twist, consider serving alongside 'Ghivetch' vegetables for a colorful and nutritious plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Pastichio Me Crema Salsa" - Macaroni And Meat Casserole contains roughly 566 calories, with 16g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (144% of the Daily Value), iron (33% of the Daily Value), and protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 533mg per serving (23% 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 this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Assemble the layers and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to adjust the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives if you prefer a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or a mix of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini for a similar texture.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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).