Makaronia Se Forma Me Kima (Macaroni & Hamburger Casserole)
Description
This traditional Greek casserole combines tender thick macaroni with a rich, savory ground meat sauce. The dish is layered with a mixture of eggs and parmesan, then topped with delicate sheets of phyllo pastry brushed in melted butter. When baked, the phyllo creates a golden, crispy crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft pasta and robust tomato-based meat filling. It is a comforting, family-style meal that offers deep flavors and satisfying textures.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 375F (190C).
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Cook the thick macaroni in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
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Add the coarsely ground meat to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.
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Stir in the peeled strained tomatoes (or tomato paste diluted with water) and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
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In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, the meat sauce, egg whites, and half of the grated parmesan cheese. Mix well.
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Spread the macaroni mixture evenly into a greased baking dish.
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Cut the phyllo pastry sheets into squares or rectangles that fit the baking dish. Layer them over the macaroni mixture.
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Brush the phyllo layers generously with the remaining melted butter. Sprinkle with the remaining parmesan cheese.
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Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the phyllo topping is golden brown and crispy.
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Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 418.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 33.1g51%
- Saturated Fat 15.6g78%
- Cholesterol 139.2mg47%
- Sodium 247.5mg11%
- Total Carbohydrate 5.3g2%
- Dietary Fiber 1.3g6%
- Sugars 2.9g
- Protein 25.0g50%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Phyllo pastry dries out very quickly. Keep the sheets covered with a damp towel while you are working with them to prevent cracking.
For a richer flavor, you can use whole eggs instead of just egg whites, or add a splash of milk to the egg mixture.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350F until warmed through to maintain the crispiness of the top.
If you cannot find peeled and strained tomatoes, you can use canned crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes, draining any excess liquid if it is too watery.
This dish freezes well. Assemble the casserole but do not bake. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
