Deliciously Cheesy Macaroni Schotel: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish

 Welcome to our culinary corner, where we indulge in the art of cooking! Today, we have an exquisite dish to share with you: Macaroni Schotel. This Indonesian-style baked macaroni casserole is a delightful combination of creamy cheese, flavorful ground meat, and perfectly cooked macaroni. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure as we guide you through the steps to create this cheesy sensation. Let's dive in!

Ingredients:

For the macaroni schotel, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 250 grams macaroni
• 250 grams of ground meat (chicken, beef, or lamb)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, grated
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 100 grams of frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons tomato ketchup
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 eggs
• 200 ml milk
• 100 grams of shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Macaroni:

   Start by cooking the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Sautéing the Meat and Vegetables:

   In a large pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. Add the ground meat of your choice and cook until browned. Then, incorporate the grated carrot, diced bell pepper, and frozen peas. Stir-fry for a few minutes until the vegetables soften.

3. Flavoring the Mixture:

   To enhance the taste, add tomato ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed. Allow the mixture to cook for a few more minutes, allowing the ingredients to meld together.

4. Preparing the Egg Mixture:

   In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together until well combined. This mixture will give the dish a creamy texture.

5. Assembling the Macaroni Schotel:

   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a baking dish, combine the cooked macaroni and the sautéed meat and vegetable mixture. Mix gently to evenly distribute the ingredients. Pour the egg and milk mixture over the macaroni and ensure it coats the entire dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously on top.

6. Baking the Macaroni Schotel:

   Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30-35 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.

7. Serving and Enjoying:

   Once baked, remove the Macaroni Schotel from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice it into squares or rectangles and serve it as a standalone dish or with a side of fresh salad or pickles. The creamy cheese, meaty filling, and tender macaroni make it a delightful treat for any mealtime.

Congratulations! You've successfully prepared a tantalizing Macaroni Schotel that is sure to please your taste buds and those of your loved ones. This cheesy and flavorful dish will leave everyone craving more. Embrace your culinary creativity by experimenting with different ingredients and spices to make it uniquely yours. Enjoy the gastronomic delight of this Indonesian-style macaroni casserole, and share the joy with family and friends. Happy cooking!