Mac And Cheese Lasagna
Lasagna Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
For the Cheese Sauce:
4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups ricotta cheese
4 cups whole milk
4 tbsp unsalted butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta and Meat:
1 lb elbow macaroni
1 lb ground Italian sausage (or ground beef)
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups marinara sauce
1 tbsp olive oil
Additional Ingredients:
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add the ground Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in marinara sauce, reduce heat to low, and let simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a roux. Slowly add milk, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in mozzarella, cheddar, ricotta, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until all cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Assemble the Lasagna Mac and Cheese
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, meat sauce, and cheese sauce. Stir well to combine.
Transfer half of the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the Parmesan cheese over it. Layer the remaining pasta mixture on top and finish with the rest of the Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
6. Serve
Let the dish cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Tips for Best Results
For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
Use freshly grated cheeses for the creamiest texture.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Keywords:
Lasagna mac and cheese recipe, easy lasagna mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, Italian-style mac and cheese, cheesy pasta bake, ground sausage mac and cheese, homemade mac and cheese lasagna style.
Enjoy this rich, creamy, and hearty lasagna mac and cheese that combines the best of two beloved comfort foods in one dish!
