Ingredients

1 box penne pasta
2 lbs ground beef
1 medium onion , chopped
2 garlic cloves , minced
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon fresh thyme
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 can tomato sauce
1 beaten egg
1 dash parmesan cheese ( optional )
8 cups cold milk
6 tablespoons butter
6 tablespoons flour
1 teaspoon fresh thyme
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg ( optional )
2 beaten eggs
salt
white pepper
black pepper
Egyptian Macaroni Bechamel is a baked pasta dish that is popular in Egypt and the Middle East. It's one of the most popular comfort foods in the country, and it's easy to see why. The dish features layers of penne pasta, beef, and a creamy bechamel sauce that is baked to perfection. It's a hearty, filling, and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed any time of the year. While the dish is high in calories and fat, it's a comforting treat that shouldn't be missed.

Instructions

1.Cook penne pasta according to package directions, drain and set aside.
2.Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it is no longer pink. Drain any excess oil.
3.Add chopped onions, minced garlic, fresh parsley, fresh thyme and cinnamon to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes.
4.Add the tomato sauce to the skillet and stir until all the ingredients are well combined. Simmer for 10-12 minutes.
5.In a separate saucepan melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour, whisking continuously to make a roux. Gradually pour in cold milk and keep whisking to prevent lumps from forming.
6.Add fresh thyme, nutmeg and dash of salt and continue whisking until the sauce thickens.
7.Take the saucepan off the heat and let it cool briefly. Whisk in two beaten eggs and set the saucepan aside.
8.Preheat the oven to 350°F.
9.In a large baking dish, layer half of the cooked penne pasta in the bottom.
10.Pour half of the bechamel sauce over pasta and spread evenly with the back of the spoon.
11.Add the sautéed beef mixture over the pasta and spread it evenly.
12.Add another layer of pasta, top it with remaining bechamel sauce.
13.Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese and black pepper on top of the bechamel sauce.
14.Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown on top. Allow the dish to sit for 10 minutes before serving.

PROS

Egyptian Macaroni Bechamel is a filling comfort dish that can be made ahead.
It’s perfect for a family dinner or a potluck party.

CONS

The dish is high in calories and fat.
It’s not recommended for people who are on a low-fat or low-calorie diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This dish is a good source of protein and calcium. However, due to the high fat content, it should be eaten in moderation. The cinnamon used in the recipe is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can help lower blood sugar levels.

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