Teresa's Recipes
Makaronilaatikko
Dive into the heartwarming comfort of Makaronilaatikko, a cherished Finnish casserole that brings together the rich flavors of savory ground beef, tender macaroni, and a creamy egg-milk mixture. This delightful dish is topped with a golden breadcrumb crust, creating a perfect balance of textures. Originating from humble Finnish kitchens, Makaronilaatikko has been a family favorite for generations, perfect for cozy evenings or festive gatherings. Its simplicity and heartiness make it not just a meal, but a nostalgic experience that warms both the belly and the soul.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons, divided Butter
- 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs
- 3 large Eggs
- 2 cups Milk
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 2 cloves, minced Garlic
- 1 medium, chopped Onion
- 1 pound Ground beef
- 2 cups, uncooked Macaroni
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 6
- Dish Type: Casserole
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 24g
- Carbs: 30g
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 4g
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef, onion, and garlic, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the beef mixture with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir well to combine and remove from heat.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and eggs until well combined.
- Grease a baking dish with the remaining tablespoon of butter and sprinkle with breadcrumbs to create a light crust.
- Layer half of the cooked macaroni in the prepared baking dish, followed by half of the seasoned ground beef mixture.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining macaroni and ground beef.
- Pour the milk and egg mixture evenly over the layers in the baking dish, ensuring it seeps through.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the mixture is set.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Makaronilaatikko!
Tips
- For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated cheese between the layers or on top before baking.
- You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Try adding some chopped vegetables, like bell peppers or spinach, to the beef mixture for added nutrition.