Mac and Cheese Lasagna with Ricotta Hamburger Blend

Introducing Mac and Cheese Lasagna with Ricotta Hamburger Blend—the ultimate comfort food fusion! This dish takes the best of both worlds: the rich, layered goodness of lasagna and the cheesy, comforting appeal of mac and cheese. With seasoned ground beef, a creamy ricotta mixture, and a medley of cheeses including sharp cheddar, provolone, Swiss, and mozzarella, this lasagna delivers bold flavors in every bite. Layered with lasagna noodles and elbow macaroni, each mouthful offers a delightful contrast of textures. Topped with a sprinkle of herbs and spices, it's the perfect meal for indulgence and warmth!

Unbalanced

% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Step 1

Prepare the Hamburger and Ricotta Blend: In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Reserve half (1 lb) of the cooked beef. In a separate bowl, combine ½ lb of the cooked beef with the ricotta cheese, heavy cream, chopped shallots, rosemary, thyme, sweet marjoram, black pepper, sage, and oregano. Mix until smooth and well blended.

Step 2

Cook the Pasta: Boil the lasagna noodles and elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3

Layer the Lasagna: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly oil a large, oven-safe casserole dish. First Layer: Place a layer of cooked lasagna noodles at the bottom of the casserole dish, making sure to cover the entire surface with no gaps or cracks. Second Layer: Sprinkle a thin layer of elbow macaroni over the lasagna noodles. Gently move them around to create an even layer. Third Layer: Add a few spoonfuls of the ricotta and hamburger blend, spreading it evenly over the macaroni. Repeat these three layers until the dish is filled.

Step 4

Cheese Layering: After every two layers of the ricotta and macaroni, sprinkle a blend of shredded cheddar, provolone, Swiss, and mozzarella cheese for extra creaminess. Continue alternating between noodles, macaroni, ricotta mixture, and cheese layers until you reach the top of the casserole.

Step 5

Finish with Cheese and Garnish: For the final layer, sprinkle a generous amount of elbow macaroni on top. Finish with a mixture of shredded sharp cheddar, provolone, Swiss, and mozzarella cheese. Garnish with ground coriander, allspice, and a light sprinkling of crushed peppercorns (optional).

Step 6

Bake the Lasagna: Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 30 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. (Lower the temperature of the oven down to 320 after 30 minutes, and if you think it's done then take it out and serve)

Step 7

Serve: Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before cutting. Enjoy the layers of savory beef, creamy ricotta, and cheesy pasta goodness!