If you think mac and cheese can't get any better, think again! Dive into a world of flavor with our Mac Cheese Alla Bolognese, a delightful twist on the classic comfort food that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with a rich, savory Bolognese sauce. Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With just a few simple ingredients and a little love, you can create a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to elevate your mac and cheese game? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a small amount of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook the meat until it's completely browned and no pink remains, approximately 6-7 minutes.
- Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the beef. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Season the Bolognese sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If the sauce seems too thick, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- In the baking dish, combine the cooked macaroni and Bolognese sauce, mixing thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta mixture. Follow with a generous layer of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and begins to turn golden and slightly crispy around the edges.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set and makes serving easier.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil if desired, and serve hot as a hearty main course.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: While elbow macaroni is traditional, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like shells or penne for a unique texture.
- Don’t Skip the Salt: Salting the pasta water is crucial as it enhances the flavor of the macaroni, ensuring every bite is delicious.
- Perfectly Brown the Beef: Make sure to cook the ground beef thoroughly until browned. This step adds depth to the Bolognese sauce and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Simmer for Flavor: Allow the marinara sauce to simmer with the beef for a few extra minutes. This melds the flavors beautifully, creating a richer sauce.
- Cheese Choices: While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic, you can also mix in some cheddar or fontina for added creaminess and flavor.
- Rest Before Serving: Letting the dish rest for about 5 minutes after baking allows the cheese to set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors.
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil right before serving adds a pop of color and freshness that balances the richness of the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 110mg
