Ingredients

1 package rotini pasta
3 tablespoons olive oil , divided
1 pound ground beef
6 tomatoes , grated
1 sweet yellow onion , grated
1/2 cup water
3 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon white sugar
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
salt and ground black pepper to taste
4 cups shredded Mizithra cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Greek Meat Pasta (Makaronia me kima) is a traditional Greek dish that is loved by many. This hearty pasta dish is made with a meat sauce that is spiced with cinnamon and cayenne pepper, giving it a bold and delicious flavor. The grated tomatoes and onions in the sauce create a rich and flavorful base that perfectly complements the ground beef. The pasta is then layered with two types of cheese, giving it a creamy and satisfying finish. This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or for meal prepping for the week ahead.

Instructions

1.In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2.In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3.Add the grated tomatoes, grated onion, water, tomato paste, cinnamon, sugar, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4.Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5.Preheat the oven to 350°F.
6.Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
7.Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the meat sauce. Toss to combine.
8.Transfer the pasta and meat sauce to the prepared baking dish.
9.Sprinkle the shredded Mizithra cheese over the top of the pasta and then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the Mizithra cheese.
10.Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11.Serve hot!

PROS

This Greek Meat Pasta is easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd.

The flavors are bold and delicious.

CONS

This dish is not particularly healthy due to the amount of cheese and ground beef used.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While this dish is not particularly healthy, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
The cinnamon in the meat sauce has been linked to reducing inflammation and improving heart health.

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