Description
Macaroni-Schotel is a classic Indonesian-Dutch baked macaroni casserole featuring elbow macaroni combined with a savory ground beef mixture, enriched with aromatic spices, topped with cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs, and baked to a golden perfection. This comforting main course blends creamy, cheesy, and meaty flavors, making it a kid-friendly and satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Topping
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter (for topping)
Beef Mixture
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup tomato ketchup
Binding Mixture
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 2 eggs, beaten
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and help with even cooking.
- Cook Macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics and Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they soften and become fragrant, about 3 minutes. Then add the ground beef and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in ground nutmeg, salt, black pepper, and tomato ketchup to the beef mixture. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to blend the flavors well.
- Combine Mixture: In a large bowl, mix the cooked macaroni with the beef mixture. Add the whole milk and beaten eggs, stirring thoroughly to combine all ingredients into a cohesive mixture.
- Assemble: Transfer the combined macaroni and beef mixture to the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs on top, and dot with small pieces of butter to encourage browning.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from oven and let the dish rest for a few minutes to set before slicing and serving warm.
Notes
- For extra richness, stir in a bit of grated cheese into the pasta mixture before baking.
- You can add diced cooked vegetables, such as carrots or peas, for a more complete and nutritious meal.
- Be sure to lightly grease the baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
