Macaroni Lamb Pasta Bake
In the culinary battle for pasta dish supremacy, the Macaroni Lamb Pasta Bake emerges as a comforting, yet enigmatic underdog. This dish artfully combines lamb browned with a hint of cinnamon and a creamy ricotta blend with al dente macaroni, promising a symphony of flavors encased in a golden, bubbly crust. Perfect for those seeking more than just nourishment, this bake is a testament to the rich and comforting depths pasta can reach.
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cooking Time
30 minutes
Servings
This recipe serves 4.
Ingredients
- Lamb mince, 500g (1.1 lbs)
- Onion, 1 large, finely chopped
- Garlic cloves, 2, minced
- Ground cinnamon, 1 tsp
- Ricotta cheese, 250g (8.8 oz)
- Macaroni pasta, 300g (10.6 oz)
- Grated cheese (for sauce), 100g (3.5 oz)
- Parmesan cheese (for topping), 50g (1.76 oz)
- Tomato sauce, 400g can (14 oz)
- Mixed herbs, 1 tbsp
- Olive oil, 2 tbsp
- Butter, 2 tbsp
- Flour, 2 tbsp
- Milk, 500ml (2 cups)
- Egg, 1, beaten
- Salt, 1 tsp
- Black pepper, ½ tsp
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until golden.
- Add lamb mince, browning well. Stir in cinnamon, tomato sauce, and mixed herbs. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, drain.
- For the cheese sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, stir in flour to make a roux. Gradually whisk in milk, then the beaten egg. Add grated cheese, stirring until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- In an ovenproof dish, layer half the macaroni, then half the meat sauce. Repeat layers.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the top, covering the layers. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve hot, optionally with garlic bread and a green salad.
This Macaroni Lamb Pasta Bake stands out with its rich, comforting flavors, offering a delightful twist on traditional pasta bakes. The combination of aromatic spices, tender lamb, and creamy cheese sauce, topped with a golden crust, makes this dish a must-try for pasta lovers. It’s a fulfilling meal that promises warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
Nutritional Information (Approx)
- Calories: 800
- Protein: 38g
- Fat: 42g
- Carbohydrates: 68g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 1200mg