A hearty and cheesy baked macaroni dish with ground beef and hotdogs, topped with a creamy white sauce.

Prep Time
20min
Cook Time
45min
Total Time
1hr 5min
Baked Macaroni recipe

Ingredients

8 Servings
(1 serving = 1 portion)

Main Ingredients

  • 500g
    macaroni noodles, cooked according to package directions
  • 2tbsp
    oil
  • 5clove
    garlic, minced
  • 1piece
    large onion, chopped
  • 500g
    ground beef
  • 1/2cup
    sliced mushrooms
  • 6piece
    hotdogs, sliced
  • 1000g
    spaghetti sauce
  • 3/4cup
    water
  • 1piece
    beef cube
  • 1tsp
    dried basil
  • 1tsp
    dried oregano
  • 1/4tsp
    ground pepper

Cheesy White Sauce

  • 3clove
    garlic, minced
  • 1/4cup
    butter
  • 3tbsp
    flour
  • 1can
    evaporated milk
  • 1cup
    all-purpose cream
  • 1 1/2cups
    grated cheese
  • 1/2tsp
    salt

How to make Baked Macaroni

Cheesy White Sauce

  1. Heat butter in a pot until melted. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.

  2. Add the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Pour in the evaporated milk and all-purpose cream.

  3. Add the grated cheese. Stir until the cheese melts.

  4. Add salt and mix well. Bring the mixture to a light simmer.

  5. Turn off heat. The sauce will thicken more as it cools down.

Beef Sauce

  1. Heat oil in a pot. Sauté the garlic and onion until the onion becomes translucent.

  2. Add the ground beef and cook until brown.

  3. Add the mushrooms and hotdogs. Mix well.

  4. Add the spaghetti sauce and water. Stir and bring to a simmer.

  5. Simmer on low heat for 15 minutes, stirring every 3-5 minutes to prevent sticking.

  6. Add the beef cube, dried basil, dried oregano, and ground pepper. Mix well. Taste and adjust seasonings. Turn off heat.

Assembly

  1. In a large bowl, combine the macaroni noodles and the beef sauce. Mix well to ensure all the pasta is coated with sauce.

  2. Transfer the mixture to a baking pan and top with the Cheesy White Sauce.

  3. Bake in the oven for 15 minutes until bubbly.

  4. Serve and enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

  1. You can add more cheese on top before baking for an extra cheesy crust.

  2. For a spicier version, add some red pepper flakes to the beef sauce.

FAQS

  1. What is the best way to store leftover baked macaroni?

    To store leftover baked macaroni, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

  2. Can I make baked macaroni without ground beef or hotdogs?

    Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with cooked chicken, turkey, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier or vegetarian option. For hotdogs, consider using sliced tofu, tempeh, or simply omit them for a meat-free version.

  3. What dietary restrictions does this baked macaroni recipe accommodate?

    This baked macaroni recipe contains dairy and meat, making it unsuitable for vegans and those with lactose intolerance. However, you can easily adapt it by using dairy-free cheese and plant-based meat substitutes to make it vegan-friendly.

  4. What can I serve with baked macaroni to make a complete meal?

    Baked macaroni pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with garlic bread or a side of coleslaw for added texture and flavor.

  5. How do I ensure my baked macaroni doesn't dry out in the oven?

    To prevent your baked macaroni from drying out, make sure to cover it with foil during the first half of the baking process. Additionally, ensure your cheese sauce is creamy enough before baking, and consider adding a bit of extra milk or cream if it seems too thick.

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Eden Glory

(@kurdapyaeiko)

I grew up in the mountainous Cordilleran region, who loves to eat, explore and recreate recipes with available ingredients. I am a Teacher by profession and...

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