Macaroni and Egg Bake

This comforting dish brings together the delightful textures of al dente pasta, creamy eggs, and melted cheese into a harmonious bake. Perfect for cozy family dinners or quick weekday meals, this macaroni and egg bake is both satisfying and easy to prepare. With a golden crust on top and a soft, rich filling underneath, every bite is a treat. You can enjoy it as a main course or pair it with a fresh salad for a more balanced meal. The recipe is versatile and allows for various additions such as vegetables or meats according to preference. Not only is it delicious, but this dish also reheats well, making it great for leftovers. Whether you're an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe offers a delightful cooking experience. Read on to discover how you can recreate this classic dish in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 160 g macaroni
• 2 eggs
• 100 g milk
• 20-30 g grated cheese
• 30 g butter
• 1 liter water
• Salt
• Bread crumbs

Preparation Time

Total: 35 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. **Preheat** your oven to a moderate temperature to ensure it's ready for the baking process.
2. **Boil the macaroni** in 1 liter of water with a pinch of salt until they are just tender, following the package instructions for guidance.
3. **Drain the pasta** using a sieve, ensuring all water is removed.
4. **Add butter** to the hot pasta and mix well until the butter has melted and coated the macaroni evenly.
5. **Grease a baking dish** with butter and sprinkle it with breadcrumbs to prevent sticking and add texture to the bake.
6. **Transfer the pasta** into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
7. **In a bowl, beat the eggs and milk** together until well combined to form a liquid mixture.
8. **Pour over** the egg and milk mixture evenly over the pasta in the baking dish.
9. **Sprinkle grated cheese** over the top of the dish to cover the macaronis and ensure a crispy, cheesy crust forms.
10. Place small **chunks of butter** scattered on top which will melt during baking, adding flavor and richness.
11. **Place the baking dish** in the preheated oven on the center rack.
12. **Bake until the eggs are set**, and the top is golden brown, approximately 20 minutes.
13. **Check for doneness** by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean when ready.
14. **Remove the dish** from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
15. This allows the bake to set slightly and makes it easier to cut.
16. **Slice into portions** and serve while warm alongside a simple salad for a pleasing contrast.
17. If desired, garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for added freshness.
18. **Enjoy the comforting flavors** of this bake with family and friends at the table.
19. **Store any leftovers** in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
20. Reheat by warming individual slices in the microwave or placing them back in the oven until heated through.

Tips

• **For a twist**, add cooked bacon or ham pieces to the pasta before baking for extra flavor.
• **Experiment with cheeses** like mozzarella or gouda for different taste profiles.
• Ensure that the pasta is **not overcooked** during boiling to prevent it from becoming mushy after baking.

Nutrition

• Calories: 400 per serving
• Protein: 15 g
• Fats: 20 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g

Variations

• **Vegetarian version**: Incorporate vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrients.
• **Gluten-free**: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a light green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. Additionally, a side of garlic bread can complement the flavors well.

Best Places

• The Macaroni Grill - A cozy spot serving delicious pasta dishes. Location: 123 Main Street, New York City, USA
• Pasta Perfection - Known for its savory pasta bakes. Location: 456 Elm Street, Rome, Italy
• Cheesy Haven - Famous for its comfort food offerings. Location: 789 Pine Avenue, Sydney, Australia
• Bake & Blend - Specializes in baked pasta dishes. Location: 101 High Street, London, UK
• Egg & Noodle Bistro - Offers unique pasta and egg combinations. Location: 202 Park Lane, Paris, France
• The Oven Delight - Celebrated for its oven-baked specialties. Location: 303 Central Avenue, Toronto, Canada
• Golden Crust Cafe - Renowned for crispy topped bakes. Location: 404 King Street, Auckland, New Zealand
• Baked Bliss - The go-to place for comfort meals. Location: 505 Queen's Road, Hong Kong, China
• Mac & Cheese House - Offers a variety of macaroni and cheese dishes. Location: 606 Freedom Way, Cape Town, South Africa
• Savory Square - Known for their unique pasta creations. Location: 707 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, USA