One Pot Macarona Bechamel (Egyptian Baked Pasta)

An easy take on a favorite Egyptian recipe, this Macarona Bechamel مكرونة بشاميل) recipe has all the flavor of traditional baked macaroni bechamel in the convenience of one pot, because you know we love a good one pot pasta! Quick and comforting, it’s the perfect easy dinner recipe to feed a crowd! 

What Is Macarona Bechamel? 

Macarona Bechamel, also called macaroni bechamel or bechamel mac and cheese, is a popular Egyptian dish we grew up eating! Typically made with penne noodles and spiced meat, it’s defined by the warm spices and creamy bechamel sauce that’s poured on top. A type of pasta bake or casserole, it’s irresistible comfort food that everyone loves! 

Is Bechamel Sauce the Same As Alfredo Sauce? 

Although similar in appearance, bechamel and alfredo are two entirely different sauces. Bechamel sauce is simple and includes only flour, milk, butter and spices. Meanwhile, alfredo sauce requires heavy cream, butter, garlic, fresh parsley, and cheese. 

Is Macaroni Bechamel the Same as Macarona Bechamel? 

We commonly hear this recipe referred to as macaroni bechamel, but that term is not accurate. We believe it is commonly confused because the dish is similar to American mac and cheese. However, unlike the Western comfort food, a key ingredient in Macarona Bechamel is the penne pasta and a white sauce. Macaroni or elbow noodles are never used. 

How to Make this Bechamel Recipe in One Pot 

For the Bechamel Sauce

1. Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. 
2. Add the warm milk to the butter mixture, and stir until the sauce is thick and creamy. Add salt, pepper, cinnamon and cardamom. Mix until incorporated.
3. Pour in the warm milk, whisking to combine. 
4. Stir in the seasonings. 

For the Baked Pasta

1. Cook the penne according to package instructions. 
2. Brown the beef in a skillet. 
3. Add the ingredients to the pot with the bechamel sauce. 
4. Stir to combine. 
5. Serve immediately. 

Flavor Variations

This recipe is simple, but there are plenty of easy ways to boost the flavor or give it a bit of a twist! 

Swap out the meat. For a slightly different flavor replace the beef with ground turkey, lamb, or even bison. 

Add a different spice. We prefer the warm flavors of cinnamon and cardamom, but you could also include a dash of garlic powder for a more savory kick. If you like nutmeg, feel free to add a dash too!

Add cheese. Make this bechamel recipe even creamier with a sprinkling of cheese. Parmesan cheese is delicious in this recipe! 

Make it pretty. If you’re cooking for a crowd, top off your pasta with a dash of fresh parsley or thyme for a super fancy-looking dish. 

How to Store Leftover Macarona 

We very rarely have any leftovers, but if you do, they store well covered in the fridge for 3-4 days. Then, when you’re ready to eat, just warm it in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven! Feel free to add a splash of milk to loosen it up. 

Or, for longer-lasting pasta, keep it in the freezer! When kept in an airtight container, it will stay fresh for 4-6 months. Then, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, and reheat it the next day. 

Serving Suggestions

• Cool, refreshing, and light, Egyptian Cucumber & Tomato Salad is the perfect side. 
• Wholesome and nutritious, this Greek Salad is easy to toss together with ingredients you already have waiting for you in your fridge! 
• This Cheesy Garlic Bread will have your friends and family begging for seconds! 

More Comforting Pasta Recipes

• Made with tomato spiced ground beef, Egyptian Orzo Pasta is a tasty twist on a classic Egyptian dish. 
• One Pot Elote Pasta will spice up your life with just one bite! 
• Filled with fresh spinach, roasted peppers, sun-dried tomato pesto, and lots of herbs, One Pot Creamy Tuscan Pasta is so flavorful and couldn’t be easier to make!
• Everything you love about buffalo chicken in one easy dish, this Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is perfect for every occasion.
• One Pot Libyan Pasta (Mbakbaka) is spicy, easy, and dairy-free!