Baked Macaroni

Introduction

History

The concept of baking pasta with cheese and other ingredients dates back centuries, with variations found in many cultures. The addition of a pastry crust to encase the pasta mixture is a nod to traditional meat pies, blending the lines between pasta dish and pie. This particular recipe, with its combination of minced beef, tomatoes, and hard-boiled eggs, reflects a fusion of flavors that have been enjoyed in various forms around the world.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For a flakier pastry, keep all ingredients cold and handle the dough as little as possible.

- To ensure the beef is flavorful and tender, brown it well before adding the tomatoes and water.

- Undercook the macaroni slightly since it will continue to cook in the oven.

- Let the baked macaroni rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven to make slicing easier.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this baked macaroni with a side of green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. A glass of red wine also pairs beautifully, enhancing the flavors of the beef and tomatoes.

Cooking Techniques

For a perfectly baked crust, start the oven at a higher temperature to set the pastry, then lower it to allow the filling to cook thoroughly without burning the top.

Ingredient Substitutions

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and pastry to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

- Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy cheese with a plant-based alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the filling in advance and refrigerate. On the day of serving, assemble with the pastry and bake, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Presentation Ideas

Serve slices of the baked macaroni on warm plates with a garnish of fresh basil or parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

A robust red wine, such as a Shiraz or Merlot, pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the baked macaroni. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon complements the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at a moderate temperature until thoroughly warmed.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of this baked macaroni dish contains approximately 500-600 calories, making it a hearty meal option.

Carbohydrates

This dish provides a good source of carbohydrates primarily from the macaroni and pastry, offering energy to fuel your day. A single serving contains approximately 45-55 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come from the minced beef, olive oil, cheese, and pastry. Depending on the fat content of the beef and cheese used, a serving can contain between 20-30 grams of fat, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats.

Proteins

Protein is plentiful in this dish, thanks to the minced beef, cheese, and eggs. Each serving offers about 25-35 grams of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

This baked macaroni is a source of various vitamins and minerals, including calcium from the cheese, iron from the beef, and several B vitamins. The tomatoes and onions also contribute vitamin C and potassium.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include gluten (from the pastry and macaroni), eggs, and dairy. Those with sensitivities should take caution.

Summary

Overall, this baked macaroni is a balanced meal with a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a calorie-dense dish best enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

This Baked Macaroni recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, encased in a flaky pastry for a satisfying meal. With its rich history and versatility, it's a dish that can be adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences. Whether served at a family dinner or a casual gathering, it's sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my grandmother. She was a wonderful cook, known for her delicious dishes and secret recipes passed down through generations.

One day, while rummaging through an old recipe box in her kitchen, I stumbled upon a faded, stained card with the words "Baked Macaroni" scrawled in elegant cursive. Intrigued, I asked my grandmother about the recipe, and she chuckled, her eyes twinkling with memories.

"Oh, that old thing," she said, her voice tinged with nostalgia. "That was a recipe I learned from a dear friend many years ago. It's been a family favorite ever since."

Curious to try my hand at making this beloved dish, I asked my grandmother to teach me the recipe. With a twinkle in her eye, she agreed, and we spent the afternoon in her cozy kitchen, gathering the ingredients and preparing the dish together.

The first step was boiling the macaroni until it was al dente, a task I took great care in completing. As the pasta bubbled away on the stove, my grandmother shared stories of her own childhood, of learning to cook from her mother and grandmother in the same kitchen where we stood.

Next, we made the creamy cheese sauce, a blend of butter, flour, milk, and sharp cheddar cheese. The rich, velvety sauce bubbled and thickened on the stove, filling the kitchen with a tantalizing aroma that made my stomach growl in anticipation.

Once the sauce was ready, we mixed it with the cooked macaroni, stirring gently to ensure every noodle was coated in the cheesy goodness. My mouth watered as I watched the dish come together, the golden sauce clinging to the pasta in a tantalizing embrace.

Finally, we poured the macaroni mixture into a baking dish and topped it with a generous sprinkling of breadcrumbs and more shredded cheese. The dish went into the oven, filling the kitchen with warmth and the promise of a delicious meal to come.

As we waited for the macaroni to bake, my grandmother and I sat at the kitchen table, sipping tea and talking about life, love, and the joy of sharing a good meal with those we care about. I cherished these moments with her, knowing that one day I would pass on these recipes and memories to my own grandchildren.

When the timer finally chimed, we pulled the bubbling dish of Baked Macaroni from the oven, the cheese melted and golden brown, the breadcrumbs crisp and golden. My grandmother beamed with pride as she served up generous portions on mismatched plates, the aroma of melted cheese and pasta filling the air.

The first bite was pure magic - creamy, cheesy, and comforting. The flavors danced on my tongue, reminding me of family gatherings, holiday feasts, and lazy Sunday afternoons spent in the kitchen with my grandmother.

As we savored our meal, my grandmother leaned back in her chair, a contented smile on her face. "There's nothing quite like a homemade meal to warm the heart and soul," she said, her eyes twinkling with love and wisdom.

And she was right. That day, I learned more than just a recipe for Baked Macaroni - I learned the importance of tradition, of family, and of the simple joys that come from sharing a meal with those we love. And whenever I make this dish now, the memories of that day with my grandmother flood back, bringing a smile to my face and a warmth to my heart that will never fade.

Categories

| Basil Recipes | Beef Recipes | Cheese Recipes | Macaroni Recipes | Maltese Appetizers | Maltese Recipes |

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