Golden Crust, Savory Heart: Mac & Cheese with added Mince – A Casserole Magic

There’s something timeless about a bubbling, cheesy casserole fresh from the oven. It’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with warmth and comfort, calling everyone to the table before it even hits the plate. This Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole is all about that cozy, homemade goodness.

This recipe is simple to prepare but packed with rich, savory flavors. Lean mince and onions form a hearty base, while a creamy cheese topping brings everything together in the best way. You don’t need fancy ingredients—just pantry staples and a bit of love.

Perfect for feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is as flexible as it is satisfying. You can layer it beautifully in a deeper dish or make a single, hearty layer in a shallow one. Either way, it’s going to be a hit.

Ouma Irene’s Recipe

Layered Love: A Macaroni & Mince Affair

Dig into comfort with every cheesy, savory bite.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 8

Course: dinner, Luinch

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

• 500g lean mince
• 3 large onions chopped
• 2 ripe tomatoes chopped
• 500g macaroni
• 225g butter
• 5 eggs
• 3 cups grated cheese
• 500ml milk
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• salt and pepper to taste
• mixed dried herbs of your choice
• 8 tbsp flour
• 2 tbsp mustard
• breadcrumbs
• smoked paprika
• Spray-and-cook or butter for greasing

Equipment

• Casserole Dish

Method

 

🔪 Step 1: Prep the Dish

1. Grease your oven-safe dish using spray-and-cook or butter, then sprinkle the bottom with breadcrumbs. If your dish is deep enough, you can create layers with mince and macaroni; otherwise, a single layer works just fine.

🍖 Step 2: Cook the Mince

1. In a frying pan over medium heat, melt some butter with a splash of olive oil.
2. Add chopped onions and garlic; sauté until soft.
3. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook briefly.
4. Add the mince and brown it slowly.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
6. Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes, adding a little water as needed to prevent drying out
7. Once cooked, let it cool slightly.
8. Mix in 1 cup of grated cheese, 1 egg, and dried herbs. Set aside.

🍝 Step 3: Cook the Macaroni

1. While the mince is simmering, cook the macaroni in salted, boiling water with a dash of olive oil for about 10 minutes.
2. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking.
3. Toss with 2 cups of grated cheese and set aside.

🥄 Step 4: Make the Creamy Topping

1. In a medium pot over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes.
3. Add mustard and mix well.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to create a smooth sauce.
5. Beat in 4 eggs one at a time, continuing to whisk.
6. Season to taste.

🧩 Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F / 190°C.

1. In the prepared dish, layer the mince and macaroni (if possible), or mix and pour it all in.
2. Pour the creamy topping evenly over the casserole.
3. Sprinkle with smoked paprika. (it is now ready for baking)
   

🍽️ Serving Tips

1. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving for easier slicing. Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies for a well-rounded meal.