If you love classic lasagna but want an easier version made with pantry staples, this Lasagna Macaroni is the perfect recipe. Instead of traditional lasagna noodles, tender macaroni is layered with seasoned ground beef, creamy homemade béchamel sauce, and plenty of melted cheese. It’s a comforting, family-friendly casserole that’s easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

• 1.1 lb macaroni
• 1.1 lb ground beef
• 3.5 oz ketchup
• 7 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 2 cups whole milk
• 3½ tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon all-purpose seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For Serving

• Sour cream (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water according to the package directions. Drain well and set aside.
2. Shred the mozzarella cheese.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
4. Season with the all-purpose seasoning, salt, black pepper, oregano, and ketchup. Stir well and let the mixture cool slightly.
5. To make the béchamel sauce, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute.
6. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
7. Season with a pinch of salt and oregano, then stir in half of the shredded mozzarella until melted.
8. Combine the cooked macaroni with the béchamel sauce.
9. Grease a baking dish and spread half of the macaroni mixture evenly across the bottom.
10. Add the seasoned ground beef in an even layer.
11. Top with the remaining macaroni mixture and sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella over the top.
12. Bake in a preheated 400°F oven for about 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
13. Serve warm with sour cream, if desired.

Servings: 6–8

Lasagna

Lasagna is one of the world’s favorite comfort foods, featuring layers of tender pasta, rich Bolognese sauce, creamy béchamel, and plenty of melted cheese. This classic homemade recipe delivers authentic Italian-inspired flavors that are perfect for family dinners, holidays, or any special occasion.

Ingredients

For the Lasagna

• 9 oz lasagna noodles
• 1.4 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded (for topping)

For the Béchamel Sauce

• 2 cups whole milk
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup sunflower oil
• 2.8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Salt, to taste

For the Bolognese Sauce

• 5 tablespoons sunflower oil
• Salt, to taste
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 12 oz ground beef
• 1 cup tomato juice
• 1 cup tomato puree
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 sprig fresh rosemary
• 1 teaspoon all-purpose seasoning

Instructions

Make the Béchamel Sauce

1. Heat the sunflower oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden. Do not allow it to brown.
3. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
4. Season with salt and stir in the shredded mozzarella until smooth. Set aside.

Make the Bolognese Sauce

1. Heat the sunflower oil in a large skillet.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
3. Stir in the tomato juice and tomato puree.
4. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Season with salt, black pepper, oregano, basil, thyme, and the all-purpose seasoning.
6. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
7. Add the rosemary sprig and continue cooking for another 10 minutes. Remove and discard the rosemary before assembling the lasagna.

1. If your lasagna noodles require pre-cooking, cook them according to the package directions and drain.
2. Lightly grease a baking dish.
3. Layer lasagna noodles, béchamel sauce, and Bolognese sauce.
4. Repeat the layers until all ingredients have been used.
5. Bake in a preheated 425°F oven for about 45 minutes.
6. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the top during the last few minutes of baking, allowing it to melt completely.

Serve hot and enjoy.

Servings: 2