A Mouthwatering Twist: Mac & Cheese Lasagna
Mac and Cheese Lasagna is a dish that appeals to both kids and the kid in all of us. Imagine creamy layers of shells and cheese intermingled with a savory blend of ground beef, sautéed onions, minced garlic, and a medley of Italian cheeses. It’s a cozy and delightful treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
We all eagerly anticipate the nights when this scrumptious mac and cheese lasagna graces our dinner table, although each of us might have our own reasons. The kids love it because it combines all their favorites, and let’s not forget—it’s incredibly delicious. As for me, I adore it for those very same reasons, but also because it’s a breeze to prepare, even in a pinch. Moreover, it’s budget-friendly, and I know for certain no one will complain about devouring it. This is the kind of dinner that warms my foodie-loving, Mama heart.
Ingredients
To whip up this mouthwatering dish, gather the following ingredients:
- Boxed macaroni shells and cheese: A 24-ounce box with the prepared cheese sauce.
- Ground beef: Opt for leaner ground beef to avoid excessive greasiness.
- Onion: Diced white onion.
- Garlic: Minced.
- Spaghetti sauce: Your favorite jarred or homemade sauce.
- Cheese: Both shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
How to Make It
To begin crafting this mouthwatering mac and cheese lasagna, start by preparing the mac and cheese according to the package instructions. While the water is boiling for the macaroni, brown the ground beef, onions, and garlic in a separate skillet, stirring occasionally. Once the beef is cooked, drain the mixture, and set it aside.
Lightly spray a 9×13″ baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Spread half of the mac evenly over the bottom of the dish. Top this layer of shells with half of the cooked meat, half of the sauce, and, finally, half of the cheeses. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining cheeses.
Bake the casserole at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Allow the macaroni and cheese lasagna to rest for 2-3 minutes before scooping and serving.
Enjoy!
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.
Tips and Tricks
Here are a few tips and tricks to enhance your mac and cheese lasagna experience:
- Add a little heat with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Craving extra cheesiness? Incorporate some cheddar into the shells and cheese.
- Don’t skip the resting time, as it ensures the lasagna doesn’t spill out when you scoop it.
Other Inventive Ways to Enjoy Mac and Cheese
Mac and Cheese Lasagna perfectly combines two beloved comfort foods into one delectable family favorite. But why stop there? If you’re searching for even more inventive ways to savor the goodness of mac and cheese, try these ideas:
- Three Cheese Gnocchi Mac & Cheese
- Fried Mac & Cheese Balls
- Macaroni & Cheese Egg Rolls
- Mac & Cheese Pizza
- Grilled Mac & Cheese Sandwich
- Mac and Cheese Soup
If you’ve given this Mac & Cheese Lasagna a whirl or have sampled any other recipe from BDK Restaurant, kindly drop a comment and let us know how it turned out. We absolutely love hearing from our readers! Also, don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram for more mouthwatering recipes and other exciting updates!
Originally published on June 18, 2018