Name: Mac Cheese Lasagna: The Ultimate Comfort Food Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow or shells pasta; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1 cup milk; 2 cups grated cheese (1 cup sharp cheddar and 1 cup mozzarella); ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; salt and pepper to taste; 1 pound ground beef, turkey, or Italian sausage; ½ cup diced onions; ½ cup diced green bell peppers; 3-4 minced garlic cloves; 1-2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 2 tablespoons sugar or sweetener; 24 oz marinara sauce; ¾ cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated cheddar cheese

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Mac Cheese Lasagna is a delightful fusion of two beloved comfort foods: macaroni and cheese paired with the rich, layered goodness of lasagna. This hearty dish combines the creamy texture of macaroni and cheese with seasoned beef and marinara sauce, creating a meal that is both satisfying and indulgent. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Mac Cheese Lasagna

This macaroni and cheese lasagna is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Here are a few reasons to love it:

Combines the richness of cheesy pasta lasagna with the heartiness of traditional lasagna.
Perfect for a crowd, making it ideal for family dinners or parties.
Easy to prepare, allowing you to spend more time with your guests.
Can be made vegetarian by substituting meat with vegetables.
Offers a unique twist on classic comfort food, loved by both kids and adults.
Adaptable to various dietary preferences, including gluten-free options.

Ingredients for Mac Cheese Lasagna

Gather these items:

8 oz elbow or shells pasta
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 cup milk
2 cups grated cheese (1 cup sharp cheddar and 1 cup mozzarella)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
salt and pepper to taste
1 pound ground beef (or turkey, or Italian sausage)
½ cup diced onions
½ cup diced green bell peppers
3-4 garlic cloves (minced)
1-2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons sugar or sweetener
24 oz marinara sauce
¾ cup ricotta cheese
2 cups grated mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated cheddar cheese

How to Make Mac Cheese Lasagna Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F.
Step 2: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbows until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up as it browns. Drain any excess grease.
Step 4: Add the Italian seasoning, sugar or sweetener, and salt and pepper to taste. Toss in the onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
Step 5: Add marinara sauce and stir. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes. Set aside.
Step 6: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
Step 7: Whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, whisking until thickened.
Step 8: Turn heat to low. Add the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses and stir until melted. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper to taste.
Step 9: Add the cooked elbows to the cheese sauce and stir until coated.
Step 10: In a baking dish, layer meat sauce, cheesy pasta, ricotta, and 1 cup of mozzarella. Repeat layers. Top with 1 cup of cheddar and 1 cup of mozzarella.
Step 11: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until bubbly. Broil for 3-5 minutes for a crispy top.
Step 12: Let rest for 10–15 minutes before cutting to hold layers.

Mac Cheese Lasagna: The Ultimate Comfort Food Delight - Mac Cheese Lasagna - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Mac Cheese Lasagna

Keep these in mind:

Use any type of milk for the recipe, depending on your preference.
Adjust seasoning according to taste to make it your own.
For a vegetarian option, replace meat with sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian mac and cheese lasagna.
Let the lasagna rest before cutting for better layering.

Best Ways to Serve Mac Cheese Lasagna

This baked mac and cheese lasagna can be served with:

A fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Garlic bread to complement the cheesy goodness.
Steamed vegetables for added nutrition.

How to Store and Reheat Mac Cheese Lasagna

To store leftovers, cover the lasagna tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. You can easily reheat portions in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through. This dish is perfect for meal prep, making it a great option for busy weekdays.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mac Cheese Lasagna

What’s the secret to perfect Mac Cheese Lasagna?

The secret lies in the layers! Ensure each layer is well-seasoned and balanced between the meat sauce and creamy cheese sauce. This is what makes the dish so flavorful and satisfying.

Can I make Mac Cheese Lasagna ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when ready to serve. This is ideal for parties or gatherings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Mac Cheese Lasagna?

To prevent sogginess, ensure your pasta is cooked al dente and let the lasagna rest after baking. This helps hold the layers together and enhances the overall texture.

Variations of Mac Cheese Lasagna You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Mac cheese lasagna with ground beef can be swapped for turkey or a meat alternative.
For a gluten-free mac cheese lasagna, use gluten-free pasta and flour.
Add sautéed vegetables for a delicious mac cheese lasagna with vegetables.
For a quick option, try a one-pot mac cheese lasagna method.

For more delicious recipes, check out baked mac and cheese or explore last recipes for inspiration. If you’re interested in meal prep ideas, visit creamy chicken pot pie pasta for a comforting dish.