Egyptian
Egyptian Macarona Bechamel
A comforting and hearty Egyptian staple featuring layers of penne pasta and spiced ground beef, all smothered in a rich, creamy béchamel sauce and baked to golden perfection.
Watch it madeMama's Cookin · 15:35
Ingredients
- Penne Pasta500g
- Ground Beef500g
- Milk1 Liter
- Flour4 tbsp
- Butter4 tbsp
- Onion1 large
Method
- Boil the penne pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a pan, sauté chopped onions until translucent, then add ground beef, salt, pepper, and a tablespoon of tomato paste. Cook until the meat is browned.
- To make the béchamel, melt butter in a pot, stir in flour for 2 minutes, then gradually whisk in milk until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and nutmeg.
- Mix half the béchamel with the pasta. Layer half the pasta in a baking dish, top with the meat mixture, then the remaining pasta.
- Pour the remaining béchamel over the top, sprinkle with cheese if desired, and bake at 200°C (400°F) for 30-40 minutes until golden brown.
Common questions
Can I substitute the penne pasta with another shape for Macarona Bechamel?
Yes. Ziti, rigatoni, or macaroni work well because they hold the sauce and layer neatly. Avoid very thin pasta like spaghetti, which can become soggy and won’t give the dish its signature baked texture.
How long does it take to make Egyptian Macarona Bechamel from start to finish?
Plan for about 60 to 75 minutes total. Boiling the pasta takes 10 minutes, the meat filling about 10 to 15, the béchamel 10 minutes, and baking usually 30 to 40 minutes until golden.
What are the most common mistakes when making the béchamel sauce?
The biggest mistakes are adding milk too fast, not whisking enough, and cooking the flour long enough before adding milk. These can cause lumps or a raw flour taste. Keep the heat moderate and whisk constantly.
How should I store leftovers, and can I freeze this dish?
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture. You can freeze it after baking, tightly wrapped, for up to 2 months, though the sauce may soften slightly.
What should I serve with Macarona Bechamel?
Serve it as a main dish with a simple green salad, pickles, or sliced tomatoes to balance the richness. It’s also good with plain yogurt or a squeeze of lemon on the side for freshness.