Best 2 Layered Macaroni Casserole Recipes
Indulge in the comforting goodness of a classic Layered Macaroni Casserole, a delectable dish that combines the richness of ground beef, the velvety texture of cheese, and the comforting warmth of pasta. Dive into a culinary journey as we explore two exquisite variations of this timeless casserole: the traditional and the vegetarian. Both recipes promise an explosion of flavors, offering a satisfying meal that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Prepare to embark on a delightful culinary adventure as we uncover the secrets behind this iconic dish, ensuring a perfect casserole every time.
Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!
LAYERED MACARONI CASSEROLE
"I concocted this quick-and-easy recipe over 40 years ago as a new bride. It's still one of my favorites," shares Virginia Cherry of Salinas, California. "I never wonder what to fix for potluck dinners. This dish is always popular."
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Dinner
Time 1h50m
Yield 8 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 18
Steps:
- In a nonstick skillet, cook beef and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Drain. Add the tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar and seasonings. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 1 hour. , Meanwhile, cook macaroni according to package directions; drain. Add cottage cheese., In a 13x9-in. baking dish coated with cooking spray, layer 1 cup meat sauce, a third of the macaroni mixture and a third of the cheddar cheese. Repeat layers twice. Top with remaining meat sauce. , Combine topping ingredients; sprinkle over sauce. Bake, uncovered, at 325° for 40-45 minutes. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 379 calories, Fat 10g fat (5g saturated fat), Cholesterol 34mg cholesterol, Sodium 1087mg sodium, Carbohydrate 40g carbohydrate (0 sugars, Fiber 4g fiber), Protein 31g protein. Diabetic Exchanges
LAYERED MEAT AND COTTAGE CHEESE MACARONI CASSEROLE
This is great to take to potlucks, you can prepare the complete casserole and refrigerate until ready to bake, adjust all seasonings to suit taste. To save time you can cook the sauce up to 48 hours in advance, in fact I advise to do so this will allow the flavors will blend together. If you prefer creamier layers increase the cottage cheese to 4 cups. Prep time does not include cooking the tomato sauce.
Provided by Kittencalrecipezazz
Categories Cheese
Time P1DT1h40m
Yield 8 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 20
Steps:
- Grease a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
- For the sauce; cook the ground beef or sausage meat with onion and garlic, chili powder, basil, oregano and cayenne; cook until browned; drain fat.
- Add in tomato paste and stir over medium-low heat for 2 minutes.
- Add in crushed tomatoes, bring to simmer and cook uncovered over medium-low heat stirring occasionally for 1-1/2 to 2 hours (the longer this sauce cooks the thicker and richer it will be, if you find that the sauce is too thick add in some water and continue cooking).
- Season with salt and pepper; set aside.
- Meanwhile cook the macaroni pasta until just al dente (do not overcook the pasta) drain then place into a bowl.
- Add in 3 cups cottage cheese, 1 cup grated mozzeralla cheese, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; mix to combine with a wooden spoon.
- Spread about 1-1/2 cups cup meat sauce into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Top meat sauce (just dollup the meat sauce then spread with a spoon, you do not have to cover completely with the meat sauce) then with 1/3 of the cottage cheese/macaroni mixture, then sprinkle about 1 cup shredded mozzeralla or cheddar cheese.
- Repeat the layers 2 more times (make certain to save some meat sauce for the top of the casserole).
- Top with remaining meat sauce.
- In a small bowl combine the topping ingredients together until blended, then sprinkle over the top of the casserole.
- At this point you can cover the casserole and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Bake at 350 degrees for 40-50 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
- Let stand for 15 minutes before serving.
- Delicious!
Nutrition Facts : Calories 705.5, Fat 35.2, SaturatedFat 17.7, Cholesterol 112.6, Sodium 1886.5, Carbohydrate 53.6, Fiber 5.1, Sugar 10.8, Protein 44.3
Tips:
- Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh, flavorful ingredients will make a big difference in the taste of your casserole. Use real butter, freshly grated cheese, and high-quality pasta.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is best for this casserole. If you overcook it, it will become mushy and the casserole will be less enjoyable.
- Layer the casserole carefully: Start with a layer of pasta, then add the cheese mixture, and then the meat sauce. Repeat these layers until you reach the top of the casserole dish.
- Bake the casserole until it is bubbly and golden brown: This will take about 30 minutes. If you are using a glass baking dish, you may need to bake it for a few minutes longer.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving: This will help the casserole set and make it easier to slice.
Conclusion:
Layered macaroni casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for any occasion. It is easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences. With its rich, cheesy flavor and satisfying texture, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it.
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