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Tuga Pops − Tuesday, June 24, 2025, 1 Year ago in Pasta Recipes
5 out of 5 with 1 ratings

Cheesy Macaroni Gratin with Veal Recipe

Try our Cheesy Macaroni Gratin with Veal, a creamy pasta topped with melty Raclette cheese, perfect for a quick family dinner!
1 h 4 servings Easy Prep time 10 min Cooking Time 50 min
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Why you will love this Cheesy Macaroni Gratin with Veal Recipe

Get ready for some serious comfort food with this Cheesy Macaroni Gratin with Veal! Picture tender elbow macaroni mixed with seasoned ground veal and ooey-gooey Raclette cheese, all baked until bubbly and golden. This dish is super easy to whip up in under an hour, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or a special night. Trust me, your taste buds are in for a treat!


Ingredients

14 ounces (400g) elbow macaroni10.5 ounces (300g) ground veal7 ounces (200g) Raclette cheese, sliced or grated1 onion, finely chopped2 cloves garlic, minced6.75 fluid ounces (200ml) cooking cream (35% fat)1 tablespoon olive oilSalt and pepper to tasteFresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Equipment:

Large skilletSpatulaLarge bowlOven-safe baking dishMeasuring cupsMeasuring spoonsKnifeCutting board

With all your ingredients and equipment gathered, you are ready to get started!

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
  2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions, drain well and set aside.
  3. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over low heat.
  4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Add the ground veal to the skillet.
  6. Cook, breaking up any clumps with a spatula, until the meat is browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. In a large bowl, combine the cooked elbow macaroni, ground veal, and cooking cream.
  8. Mix everything together thoroughly until well combined.
  9. Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe baking dish.
  10. Arrange the slices or grated Raclette cheese evenly over the top.
  11. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  12. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.

Recipe Tips

To enhance the flavor of your macaroni gratin, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in the olive oil until they are translucent and fragrant before adding the ground veal. This will build a deeper flavor base for your dish.
Avoid overcooking the elbow macaroni; cook it to al dente according to package instructions. It will continue to cook in the oven, and this will prevent it from becoming mushy in the final gratin.
For a crispy topping, consider mixing additional grated Raclette cheese with breadcrumbs and a bit of melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture on top of the gratin before baking to create a golden, crunchy crust.

Adapted from a Recipe by: Receitas Fáceis

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Calories
1147 kcal
Fat
74 g
Carbs
79 g
Protein
40 g

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for ground veal in this recipe?

You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or beef for the ground veal. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.

How should I store leftovers of the Cheesy Macaroni Gratin with Veal?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (180°C) until warmed through, or microwave in increments until heated.

What should I do if my cheese doesn't melt properly during baking?

If your cheese isn’t melting well, try covering the dish with aluminum foil for part of the baking time. This retains moisture and helps the cheese melt evenly. You can also broil it for 1-2 minutes at the end to ensure a nice golden crust.

Recommended Drink Pairings

Wine

Portuguese: Vinho Verde - This light and refreshing wine complements the richness of the cheese and veal while balancing the creamy texture of the gratin.

General: Chardonnay - A buttery Chardonnay with a hint of oak enhances the flavors of the Raclette cheese and adds a creamy mouthfeel that pairs well with the dish.

Beer

Portuguese: Super Bock - This popular Portuguese lager offers crispness and a light body that cuts through the richness of the macaroni gratin.

General: Pilsner - A well-balanced Pilsner provides a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the dish without overpowering it.

Other Beverages

Coffee: A medium roast coffee with a smooth finish can enhance the overall meal experience, especially if enjoyed after the dish to cleanse the palate.

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Tuga Pops

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