Ingredients

7 ounces pasta , uncooked ( such as macaroni or penne )
1/2 lb ground beef
1 onion , finely chopped
2 garlic cloves , finely chopped
1 medium carrot , peeled , finely grated
1/2 cup crushed tomatoes , from a can
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon oregano
salt
pepper
1/2 cup parsley , chopped
2/3 cup mozzarella cheese , grated ( or Halloumi Cheese )
1 egg , lightly beaten
Ground Beef Pasta in the Oven, also known as Firinda Kiymali Makarna in Turkish, is a classic comfort food dish that has been enjoyed by families for generations. This dish is popular in Turkey, Italy, and many other countries. The combination of pasta and ground beef is a classic pairing that creates a delicious and comforting taste. This dish is perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or weeknight dinners because it's easy to make and can feed a crowd. The sauce is made using crushed tomatoes, paprika, oregano, and fresh parsley that add a depth of flavor to the dish. The pasta is softened in boiling, salted water and then tossed together with an egg, which makes it hold together while baking. The dish is finished off with a layer of gooey melted cheese that adds to the richness of the dish.

Instructions

1.Cook the pasta in a pot of boiling salted water until it's al dente. Drain and set aside.
2.In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it's browned. Add the onion, garlic, and grated carrot and cook until the vegetables are softened.
3.Add the crushed tomatoes, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pan and bring to a simmer. Allow the mixture to bubble for 5-7 minutes until it's thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.
4.Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease an 8x8 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
5.In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beaten egg. Spoon half of the pasta mixture into the prepared dish. Top with half of the meat sauce. Repeat with another layer of pasta and meat sauce.
6.Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese over the top of the dish. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7.Remove the foil from the dish and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8.Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving.

PROS

This comforting and hearty pasta dish is easy to make, budget-friendly, and can be enjoyed as a main course or side dish.
The combination of ground beef, vegetables, pasta, and cheese make this dish a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

CONS

While this dish is delicious and satisfying, it’s not particularly healthy due to its high fat and calorie content.
It should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Ground beef is a rich source of protein, iron, and zinc which are important nutrients for muscle growth and repair, immune function and iron metabolism. Tomatoes are a low-calorie source of antioxidants such as lycopene which can help fight cellular damage. Oregano contains carvacrol and thymol which have antibacterial properties and may play a role in fighting off harmful bacteria. This dish is moderate in carbohydrates and can provide energy to the body.

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