Delicious Macaroni Cake

This savory macaroni cake is a delightful twist on a classic pasta dish. It's a hearty and comforting meal featuring tube pasta stacked with layers of flavorful minced beef, vegetables, and melted cheese. The recipe combines simple ingredients to create an impressive dish that's perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, this dish is sure to impress your guests. With a preparation time of around an hour, it's a simple and satisfying choice for a cozy meal. The aroma of garlic, onion, and Parmesan cheese permeates the kitchen, making the cooking process as enjoyable as eating it. This indulgent meal is a favorite among pasta lovers and is versatile enough to suit various tastes by adding your preferred seasonings. It's perfect for making ahead and reheating, ensuring a delicious meal with minimal effort. Serve with a side salad or fresh bread for a complete dining experience. Enjoy a taste of comfort and warmth with every bite!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 400 g minced beef
• 500 g tube macaroni (with straight ends)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, finely grated
• 100 g Parmesan cheese, grated
• 100 g Gouda cheese, grated
• Tomato sauce (few tablespoons as needed)
• Cooking oil (for greasing the baking dish)

Spices and Sauces

• Meat seasoning (to taste)

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 200°C (392°F) to heat while you prepare the ingredients.
2. Prepare Vegetables: Heat a tablespoon of cooking oil in a pan and sauté the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated carrot until they are soft and fragrant.
3. Cook the Meat: Add the minced beef to the pan with the vegetables. Season with meat seasoning and cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked.
4. Add Tomato Sauce: Stir a few tablespoons of tomato sauce into the meat mixture to add moisture and flavor.
5. Boil the Pasta: Cook the tube macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
6. Cheesy Macaroni Layer: Toss the cooked macaroni with half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Grease the Baking Dish: Lightly oil a baking dish or cake mold to prevent sticking.
8. Assemble the Cake: Tightly pack the macaroni in the prepared baking dish, forming a solid base.
9. Layer the Beef: Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly on top of the packed macaroni.
10. Press Beef Into Macaroni: Use a skewer or chopstick to gently press the beef into the pasta so it holds together well.
11. Initial Baking: Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes.
12. Add Cheese: Remove from oven, sprinkle the remainder of the Parmesan and all of the Gouda cheese on top.
13. Final Baking: Return to the oven and bake until the cheese is melted and slightly golden brown, about 15 minutes.
14. Cool: Allow the cake to cool slightly, then run a knife around the edges to loosen.
15. Slice and Serve: Carefully slice and serve the macaroni cake warm.
16. Garnish: Optional - garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor and presentation.
17. Cleanup: Remember to use the right tools for easy cleanup, such as a non-stick spatula for serving.
18. Enjoy: Serve and enjoy this delightful dish!
19. Presentation: Ensure each slice remains intact by maintaining the packed structure while serving.
20. Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Tips

• Substitutions: Feel free to replace the beef with pork or turkey for a different flavor profile.
• Cheese Options: Switch up the cheeses to your liking, such as using mozzarella for a stringy texture.
• Healthier Version: Substitute whole-grain pasta for a fiber-rich alternative.
• Vegetables: Add more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.

Nutritions

Approximate nutritional values per serving (assuming 10 servings):

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Protein: 20g
• Fats: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 42g

Variations

• Vegetarian: Omit the beef and add roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta as a substitute for regular macaroni.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a fresh green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
• Pair with a glass of medium-bodied red wine or sparkling water.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for added color and aroma.

Best Places

• Ristorante di Pasta - Famous for its traditional pasta dishes and warm ambiance. Location: 50 Pasta St, Florence, Italy.
• Bistro Bites - Renowned for its fusion of classic and modern Italian cuisine. Location: 120 Food Lane, Paris, France.
• The Pasta Hub - Celebrated for its inventive pasta creations and cozy setting. Location: 22 Gourmet Ave, Rome, Italy.
• Mac & Cheese Lounge - Specializes in cheese-based pasta dishes with a relaxed vibe. Location: 15 Cheddar Ct, Boston, USA.
• Pasta Art Gallery - Offers a walk through pasta history with contemporary touches. Location: 32 Art Blvd, New York, USA.
• Noodle Craft Bar - Known for its artisan noodles and hip atmosphere. Location: 40 Craft Rd, Tokyo, Japan.
• Cheese and Grain - Combines traditional flavors with innovative presentations. Location: 45 Cheese Lane, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
• La Pasteria - Offers rustic Italian dishes in an elegant setting. Location: 70 Rome Rd, Barcelona, Spain.
• The Mac Factory - A unique take on macaroni dishes with global influences. Location: 90 Factory St, London, UK.
• Gourmet Noodles - Famous for its refined noodle courses paired with fine wines. Location: 25 Gourmet St, Sydney, Australia.