If you’re on the hunt for a hearty, comforting dish that’s cheesy, golden, and utterly satisfying, the Cheesy Baked Macaroni Schotel Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. This Indonesian-inspired casserole combines tender macaroni, rich cheeses, and a savory filling that bakes to bubbly perfection, delivering layers of flavor and texture. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between creamy, cheesy indulgence and wholesome goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but crucial; each plays its own role in building that delicious, comforting texture and flavor profile. From the perfectly cooked macaroni to the trio of cheeses, every addition makes the dish come alive both in taste and appearance.
- 2 cups Macaroni (uncooked): Choose elbows or small macaroni for that ideal bite-size pasta texture.
- 2 tbsp Butter: Adds richness to the sauté and a subtle depth to the overall flavor.
- 1 medium Onion (finely chopped): Provides sweetness and a fragrant base when sautéed.
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced): Infuses aromatic warmth that elevates every bite.
- 1/2 lb Ground beef or chicken (optional): Adds hearty protein and savory notes, but you can skip it for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- 1/2 cup Milk: Keeps the bake creamy without being too heavy.
- 1/2 cup Heavy cream: Intensifies the richness for that luscious, velvety texture.
- 2 large Eggs: Bind everything together nicely for that perfect sliceable casserole.
- 1 1/2 cups Cheddar cheese (grated): Sharp and melty, it delivers classic cheesy goodness.
- 1/2 cup Mozzarella cheese (grated): Adds a stretchy, gooey layer that’s irresistible.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated): Boosts the savory depth with its nutty notes.
- 1/2 tsp Salt (or to taste): Essential seasoning to brighten all the flavors.
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper: Adds just the right pinch of heat and complexity.
- 1/2 tsp Paprika (optional): For a subtle smoky warmth and beautiful color.
- 1 tbsp Parsley (chopped, for garnish): Offers a fresh, vibrant finish.
- 1/4 cup Bread crumbs (optional, for topping): Creates a crunchy golden crust that contrasts perfectly with the creamy interior.
How to Make Cheesy Baked Macaroni Schotel Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Dish
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures everything cooks evenly from the moment it goes in. Don’t forget to grease a 9×9 inch baking or casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray, which makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Macaroni
Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until just al dente—this is key to avoid mushy pasta later on. Once cooked, drain well and set aside so it’s ready for the filling.
Step 3: Sauté Onions, Garlic, and Ground Meat
In a pan over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the finely chopped onions and minced garlic until they’re soft and fragrant. If you’re adding ground beef or chicken, toss it in now and cook until browned. Season this mixture with salt, black pepper, and paprika for that wonderful savory base.
Step 4: Mix the Creamy Sauce and Combine Everything
In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, and all the grated cheeses—cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan. Then add the sautéed onion-garlic-meat mixture along with the cooked macaroni. Stir everything together with care so every noodle is coated in cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Transfer your macaroni mixture evenly into the greased baking dish. If you like a crispy crust, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top—they bake into a delightful crunch contrasting the creamy interior. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top turns golden and bubbly, signaling it’s ready to be devoured.
Step 6: Cool, Garnish, and Serve
After baking, let the dish cool for a few minutes to firm up for cleaner slices. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a fresh herbaceous note before serving.
How to Serve Cheesy Baked Macaroni Schotel Recipe
Garnishes
Simple fresh parsley works beautifully to add color and a hint of brightness that cuts through the richness. Feel free to add a sprinkle of extra parmesan or a few dashes of black pepper for a finishing touch.
Side Dishes
The Cheesy Baked Macaroni Schotel Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, steamed vegetables, or even a tangy tomato salsa. These sides provide balance and freshness alongside the rich, cheesy casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special meal, serve individual portions in small ramekins for a charming presentation. You can also layer the macaroni with sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra texture and flavor varieties, personalizing it to your taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making for a great next-day meal.
Freezing
This dish freezes well either as a whole casserole or in individual portions. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly again, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave single servings, but for the best texture, the oven is preferred.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this Cheesy Baked Macaroni Schotel Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan are classic choices, you can substitute or add cheeses like gouda, gruyere, or even a spicy pepper jack to tailor the flavor to your liking.
Is it necessary to use ground meat in this recipe?
Nope, the recipe works great without meat for a vegetarian option. You can add extra veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers instead to keep it hearty and flavorful.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time and bake later?
Yes! You can assemble the macaroni mixture and store it in the baking dish covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from chilled.
What if I don’t have bread crumbs for the topping?
The breadcrumbs add a lovely crunchy texture, but you can skip them if you want a softer top. Alternatively, crushed crackers or crushed cornflakes can be great substitutes.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit the topping entirely. Just ensure all other ingredients are free from gluten-containing additives.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the Cheesy Baked Macaroni Schotel Recipe—it’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, marrying cheesy indulgence with satisfying textures and flavors. Trust me, once you try making this, it’s going to earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and prepare to delight in every cheesy, comforting bite!
Print
Cheesy Baked Macaroni Schotel Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Indonesian
Description
Macaroni Schotel is a delicious baked macaroni casserole from Indonesia, combining creamy cheese, sautéed onions and garlic, and optionally ground beef or chicken. This comforting dish is baked until golden and bubbly, creating a rich, cheesy meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Macaroni:
- 2 cups Macaroni (uncooked)
Filling and Sauce:
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 1 medium Onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1/2 lb Ground beef or chicken (optional)
- 1/2 cup Milk
- 1/2 cup Heavy cream
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 1/2 cups Cheddar cheese (grated)
- 1/2 cup Mozzarella cheese (grated)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1/2 tsp Salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Paprika (optional)
Topping and Garnish:
- 1/4 cup Bread crumbs (optional, for topping)
- 1 tbsp Parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking or casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook macaroni: Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Prepare the filling: In a pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant. If using ground beef or chicken, add it now and cook until browned through. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and paprika if desired.
- Make the sauce: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, and eggs. Add grated cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses, mixing until well combined. Then incorporate the sautéed onion, garlic, and meat mixture along with the cooked macaroni, stirring everything together thoroughly.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the prepared macaroni mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Optionally, sprinkle bread crumbs evenly over the top to add a crispy crust.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Cool and serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- You can omit the ground meat for a vegetarian version.
- Using a combination of cheeses gives a richer flavor and creamier texture.
- Breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a nice crunch.
- Letting the dish cool slightly before serving helps it set and slice better.
