For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of dry red wine to the meat sauce while it simmers. If you can't find Mizithra cheese, you can substitute with ricotta salata or a combination of ricotta and feta cheese. Freshly grated nutmeg can be added along with cinnamon, complementing the warm spice notes. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Don't be afraid to add more cinnamon or cayenne pepper to suit your preferences.
Greek Meat Pasta (Makaronia me kima)
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PREP TIME15 mins
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COOK TIME1 hrs 10 mins
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TOTAL TIME1 hrs 25 mins
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SERVING10 People
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VIEWS15
Transport yourself to a sun-drenched Greek taverna with this soul-satisfying pasta dish. Fragrant cinnamon-infused meat sauce envelops perfectly cooked rotini, creating a symphony of flavors that's both comforting and exotic. A generous blanket of Greek Mizithra and mozzarella cheese adds a creamy, tangy finish that will leave you craving more.
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate95 g
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Cholesterol69 mg
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Fiber6 g
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Protein24 g
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Saturated Fat9 g
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Sodium1278 mg
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Sugar11 g
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Fat22 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
Follow The Directions
01
StepPreheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
02
StepBring a large pot of lightly salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain the pasta thoroughly and transfer it to a large bowl. Toss with 2 tablespoons of olive oil to prevent sticking. (Prep time: ~10 minutes)
03
StepWhile the pasta is cooking, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess fat. (Cook time: ~10 minutes)
04
StepAdd the grated tomatoes, grated onion, water, tomato paste, ground cinnamon, sugar, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the browned beef. Stir well to combine all ingredients. (Prep time: ~5 minutes)
05
StepReduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer the meat sauce for at least 20 minutes, or up to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld and deepen. The longer it simmers, the richer the sauce will become. (Cook time: ~20-45 minutes)
06
StepPour the meat sauce over the cooked rotini in the large bowl and toss gently to coat all the pasta evenly. (Prep time: ~3 minutes)
07
StepPour half of the pasta mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle evenly with half of the shredded Mizithra cheese and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. (Prep time: ~5 minutes)
08
StepTop with the remaining pasta mixture and sprinkle with the remaining Mizithra and mozzarella cheese. (Prep time: ~5 minutes)
09
StepBake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. (Bake time: ~35-40 minutes)
10
StepLet the pasta rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and the flavors to meld even further. (Rest time: ~5-10 minutes)
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RECIPE REVIEWS
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Please Rate
Troy Lehnergoyette
Jun 21, 2025This was a hit at our potluck! Everyone loved the unique flavor combination.
Ima Cronin
Jun 10, 2025Next time I'll try adding some mushrooms to the meat sauce.
Doug Auer
Jun 5, 2025The cinnamon makes this dish so special. I've never tasted anything like it!
Samantha Howe
May 25, 2025I added a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little extra heat. Will definitely make again!
Joey Barton
May 20, 2025I used ground turkey instead of beef and it was still amazing.
Savion Okeefe
May 17, 2025Easy to follow recipe and the end result was delicious. My family devoured it.
Lorenz Yundt
May 13, 2025The cheese combination is perfect. So creamy and flavorful!