Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8-ounce) package macaroni
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large skillet
- 9x13-inch baking dish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 7 minutes.
4. Add oregano, basil, salt, and pepper and stir to combine.
5. Add tomato sauce and diced tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Meanwhile, cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
7. In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
8. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
9. Spread half of the macaroni mixture in the bottom of the dish.
10. Top with the beef mixture.
11. Spread remaining macaroni mixture over the beef mixture.
12. Sprinkle remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top.
13. Bake for 25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Temperature: 350 degrees F
Serving Size: 8
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 454
Fat: 21 g
Carbohydrates: 37 g
Protein: 28 g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or ground chicken.
- Ricotta cheese can be substituted with cottage cheese.
- Mozzarella cheese can be substituted with cheddar cheese.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Romano cheese.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of frozen peas to the beef mixture.
- Add 1/2 cup of cooked crumbled bacon to the beef mixture.
- Add 1/2 cup of cooked diced mushrooms to the beef mixture.
- Add 1/2 cup of cooked diced bell peppers to the beef mixture.
Tips and Tricks:
- For a creamier texture, add 1/2 cup of heavy cream to the beef mixture.
- For a spicier flavor, add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat leftovers in the microwave or in a 350 degree F oven until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve Pasticcio di Maccheroni with a side of garlic bread and a salad.
Garnishes:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil.
Pairings:
Pair with a glass of red wine.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Garlic bread, salad, roasted vegetables.
Troubleshooting Advice:
If the dish is too dry, add a few tablespoons of water to the beef mixture.
Food Safety Advice:
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking.
Food History:
Pasticcio di Maccheroni is a classic Italian dish that originated in Naples. It is a popular comfort food that is often served during the holidays.
Flavor Profiles:
This dish has a savory flavor with hints of garlic and herbs.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a side of garlic bread and a salad.
Related Categories
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Region: Italian
Taste: Savory, Rich, Comforting, Cheesy, Hearty