Ingredients and Weight:
- Ground beef (80% lean): 500g
- Macaroni pasta: 250g
- Pesto sauce: 100g
- Shredded parmesan cheese: 50g
- Onion, diced: 1 small
- Garlic, minced: 2 cloves
- Cherry tomatoes, halved: 1 cup
- Red bell peppers, diced: 1/2 cup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparation Time:
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 30 minutes
- Total: 50 minutes
Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- In a large pot, cook the macaroni pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the diced onion and minced garlic until no longer red. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the cooked macaroni, pesto sauce, diced red bell peppers, and halved cherry tomatoes to the ground beef mixture. Stir to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish and top with shredded parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the dish is heated through.
Nutritional Information:
(Based on average values; may vary depending on specific ingredients used)
- Calories: Approx. 550 per serving (serving size: one quarter of the dish)
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 30g
Dish Characteristics:
- Creative fusion of American and Italian flavors.
- Rich and hearty, perfect for a main meal.
- Pesto sauce adds a unique and flavorful twist to the traditional hamburger macaroni dish.
User Comments:
- "This dish was a hit with my family! The pesto sauce really added a new dimension to the flavor."
- "I loved the combination of flavors in this dish. It was easy to make and turned out great."
- "This is a great dish for a busy weeknight. It's hearty and filling, yet still has a creative flavor."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Be sure to use fresh ingredients for best results.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the ground beef while it's cooking.
