Easy Finnish Macaroni Bake (Makaroonilaatikko) Recipe
Finnish Macaroni Bake (Makaroonilaatikko) Recipe
Are you looking for a traditional, comforting Finnish recipe that’s easy to make and loved by the whole family? Look no further than Finnish macaroni bake, known locally as makaroonilaatikko. This dish has been a staple in Finnish homes for generations, and it’s no wonder why—it’s hearty, satisfying, and simple to prepare. Whether you’re introducing your family to Finnish cuisine or just craving a delicious meal, this macaroni bake will hit the spot.
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What is Finnish Macaroni Bake (Makaroonilaatikko)?
Makaroonilaatikko is one of Finland’s most beloved comfort foods. This baked casserole dish combines elbow macaroni with ground beef, eggs, milk, and grated cheese, creating a meal that is both filling and delicious. It’s a popular dish in Finnish households, especially among children, as it offers a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and dairy. Traditionally, it’s made with milk, but in this version, I’ve made a slight change to the recipe for those who prefer a dairy-free option.
The beauty of Finnish macaroni bake is its simplicity. With a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a meal that will satisfy your family’s hunger and provide leftovers for the next day. It’s a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Why I Changed the Traditional Recipe
When preparing makaroonilaatikko, milk is often an essential ingredient. However, there’s a reason why I make it without milk. A few years ago, I found myself halfway through preparing this dish and realized that I had run out of milk. It was already late, and I wouldn’t be able to get more until the next day. So, I decided to try making it without milk, and much to my surprise, it turned out just as delicious. Ever since, I’ve continued making it this way. It’s a small adjustment that’s worked wonders, and I’m excited to share this version with you.
If you prefer the traditional recipe with milk, you can always substitute it in. But for this recipe, we’ll be skipping the milk, which makes it a great dairy-free alternative for those with lactose intolerance or anyone looking to cut back on dairy.
Ingredients for Finnish Macaroni Bake
This recipe is designed to serve about 10 people. You’ll need the following ingredients:
- 600-800g elbow macaroni (depending on your preferred ratio of pasta to filling)
- 600-800g ground beef (you can substitute with turkey or a plant-based meat alternative if desired)
- 3 onions (finely chopped)
- 4 eggs
Spices:
- 4 tsp paprika (adds a nice smoky flavor)
- 1 tsp flavored salt (for enhanced taste)
- ½ tsp regular salt (to balance the flavors)
- 2.5 tsp minced meat seasoning (a blend of white pepper, allspice, black pepper, basil, garlic, paprika, and onion powder)
Topping:
- Grated cheese (this is optional but recommended for a crispy, cheesy top)
How to Make Finnish Macaroni Bake
Here’s how to prepare this delicious Finnish dish:
- Cook the macaroni. Start by boiling the elbow macaroni in salted water. Once it’s cooked, drain the water and set it aside.
- Prepare the ground beef. While the macaroni is cooking, heat a pan and brown the ground beef. Start by cooking one side of the meat until it’s brown, then flip it and cook the other side. Once both sides are browned, break the meat up into smaller pieces and stir it. Add the chopped onions and cook them until they soften.
- Season the meat. Add the spices—paprika, flavored salt, regular salt, and minced meat seasoning—to the pan with the ground beef and onions. Stir well to evenly distribute the seasoning. This is where the magic happens, and the flavors begin to meld together.
- Combine the ingredients. Once the ground beef and macaroni are ready, combine them in a large mixing bowl. Crack the 4 eggs into the mixture and stir to combine. The eggs will help bind everything together as it bakes.
- Transfer to a casserole dish. Grease a baking dish or casserole dish with butter or oil and pour the mixture into the dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure it bakes uniformly.
- Bake the macaroni. Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until it looks like it’s almost ready.
7. Add the cheese topping. After 30 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the grated cheese over the top. Return the dish to the oven for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
8. Serve and enjoy! Once the Finnish macaroni bake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious, comforting meal!
Why You’ll Love Finnish Macaroni Bake
- Simple and Easy: With basic ingredients like macaroni, ground beef, eggs, and cheese, this dish is simple to make, even for beginners.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences. You can use ground turkey instead of beef, or add vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrition.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Finnish macaroni bake stores well in the fridge for a few days, making it ideal for meal prepping. You can also freeze leftovers for future meals.
From My Kitchen to Yours
Finnish macaroni bake (makaroonilaatikko) is a classic comfort food that brings together simple ingredients to create a filling and delicious meal. Whether you stick with the traditional milk version or try the dairy-free twist I’ve shared, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and easy preparation, it’s a meal that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Give it a try and experience the warmth of Finnish cuisine in your own kitchen.
