Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with savory ground beef, this baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
- 250 g macaroni
- 500 g ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Drain excess grease if necessary.
- In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in flour and whisk for about 1 minute to create a roux.
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Add 1½ cups cheddar cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese. Stir until melted and creamy.
- Combine cooked macaroni, beef mixture, and cheese sauce in a large bowl.
- Transfer everything into a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Rich, creamy, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible.
