Best Easy Pasticcio di Maccheroni Recipe

Baked pasta encased in pastry crust with ragù and béchamel is Italian baroque cooking. This protein-rich mediterranean showpiece is a family heirloom recipe for special occasions.

Cook 105 min Difficulty HARD 410 kcal
#high protein #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • maccheroni pasta (or ziti) 16 oz
  • ground beef 12 oz
  • ground pork 8 oz
  • onion, finely chopped 1 cup
  • carrot, finely diced 0.5 cup
  • celery, finely diced 0.5 cup
  • unsalted butter 3 tbsp
  • all-purpose flour 2.5 cups
  • eggs 3 pieces
  • whole milk 2 cups
  • Parmesan cheese, grated 1 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • olive oil 3 tbsp
  • tomato paste 2 tbsp
  • nutmeg, freshly grated 0.25 tsp
  • kosher salt 2 tsp
  • black pepper 1 tsp
  • water 0.5 cup
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 38 g 37%
Protein 22 g 22%
Fat 17 g 41%
Serving size 260g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Prepare pastry: Combine all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp salt, and 2 eggs in a bowl. Add 5 tbsp butter and 4–5 tbsp cold water, mixing until dough forms. Knead gently, wrap, and chill 30 min.

  2. 2

    Make the ragù: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté onion, carrot, and celery for 6–8 minutes until softened but not browned. Add ground beef and pork, breaking up the meat, and cook until just losing pink, about 5 minutes.

  3. 3

    Add tomato paste, 1 tsp salt, and black pepper to the meat. Stir, add 1/2 cup water, reduce heat to low, and simmer gently for 20–25 minutes until thickened and flavorful. Remove from heat.

  4. 4

    Prepare béchamel sauce: In a saucepan over medium-low heat, melt butter, add flour, and whisk 2 minutes (do not brown). Gradually add milk, whisking to keep lumps away, until smooth. Simmer 4–5 minutes until the béchamel coats the back of a spoon. Season with nutmeg and a pinch of salt.

  5. 5

    Cook maccheroni pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water, 2 minutes less than package directions for al dente. Drain and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

  6. 6

    Roll out the pastry dough to fit a 9-inch springform pan. Line the pan with dough, allowing some overhang.

  7. 7

    Layer: Place half the pasta in the pastry, top with half the ragù and béchamel, and sprinkle with Parmesan. Repeat with remaining pasta, ragù, and béchamel. Cover with remaining pastry and seal edges. Brush top with beaten egg.

  8. 8

    Bake in preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 50–60 minutes until golden brown and crust is crisp. Let rest 20 minutes before unmolding.

  9. 9

    Slice carefully and serve warm, allowing the layers to hold together for presentation.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this pasticcio di maccheroni recipe?
The defining ingredient in pasticcio di maccheroni is the maccheroni pasta itself, combined with a rich meat ragù and creamy béchamel. Together, these form the core layers inside the signature pastry crust, creating the dish's unique flavor and texture.
Q. Which seasoning makes the biggest difference in flavor?
Freshly grated nutmeg used in the béchamel sauce, and quality Parmesan cheese, add depth, warmth, and a classic Italian aroma. The savory combination of onion, carrot, and celery in the ragù also builds robust Mediterranean flavor.
Q. How do I keep the pasta from becoming mushy or overcooked inside the pastry?
Cook the pasta 2 minutes shorter than the package's al dente time so it stays firm. This prevents overcooking during baking and ensures a perfect layered structure when cut.
Q. What is the protein and calorie content per serving?
Each serving provides 22g of protein and 410 kcal, making this dish satisfying and protein-rich. Protein contributes 22% of the calorie content, supporting a balanced intake.
Q. What are the critical steps for even baking and a crisp crust?
Chilling the pastry, rolling it evenly, and baking at 375°F for 50–60 minutes are essential for a perfectly crisp, golden crust that holds the filling. Allowing the dish to rest before slicing ensures the filling sets for easy serving.
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