Ingredients and Weight:
- Macaroni - 300 grams
- Ground beef - 250 grams
- Carrots - 100 grams (peeled and diced)
- Celery - 100 grams (diced)
- Red onion - 50 grams (diced)
- Mayonnaise - 1 cup
- Cheddar cheese - 100 grams (shredded)
- Eggs - 2 (hard-boiled, chopped)
- Salt and pepper - to taste
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 45 minutes (including cooking time)
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Difficulty Level:
Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Boil the macaroni in a pot of salted water until tender, then drain and set aside to cool.
- In a separate pan, brown the ground beef until fully cooked and drain the excess fat.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, ground beef, carrots, celery, red onion, cheddar cheese, and chopped hard-boiled eggs.
- Add the mayonnaise and mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Season with salt and pepper as desired.
- Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish and bake for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approx. 500 calories per serving (based on US dietary guidelines)
- Fat: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 18g
Dish Characteristics:
- This dish is a perfect combination of pasta and salad, offering a creamy and flavorful experience.
- The ground beef adds a hearty meat component, while the vegetables and cheese provide a balance of flavors and textures.
- It's a great dish for summer potlucks or as a side for barbecue events.
User Comments:
- "This macaroni salad was amazing! The flavor combinations were unique and really well done."
- "Love the crunch from the baked macaroni; it gave the salad a different texture."
- "I added some extra spices to give it a kick, but overall, it was still delicious."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Be sure to cook the macaroni until tender but not overcooked to maintain its texture.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your preference. If you want a spicier salad, add some chili flakes or hot sauce.
- This salad can be served chilled or at room temperature, so adjust the serving temperature based on your preference or the occasion.
