Beef-A-Roni
A hearty, cheesy beef and pasta casserole with flavorful tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking a satisfying, easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni until done and drain.
- Brown the hamburger with chopped onion and bell pepper.
- Drain excess fat and add spaghetti sauce to the beef mixture.
- Pour all ingredients into an oblong baking pan.
- Top with shredded cheese.
- Bake at 325 degrees Fahrenheit until the cheese starts to brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage. You can also add garlic or Italian seasoning to the beef mixture for extra depth. If you're short on time, consider using a quick and easy pasta sauce from a jar. To enhance the dish, you can incorporate vegetables like mushrooms or spinach, similar to a Potato And Ham Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Beef-A-Roni is delicious on its own but can be served with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, pair it with steamed vegetables or roasted broccoli. This dish also makes a great potluck contribution, as it feeds a crowd and is a comforting option, reminiscent of American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Adding a splash of water before reheating can help keep the dish moist and prevent it from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef-A-Roni contains roughly 419 calories, with 10g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (324% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (42% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 650mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can substitute with penne, rotini, or any small pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type to ensure it doesn't overcook.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
Yes! You can use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef to reduce the fat content. Additionally, incorporating more vegetables, such as zucchini or carrots, can boost the nutritional value while maintaining the dish's heartiness.
Can I make Beef-A-Roni ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be prepared ahead of time. Assemble it in the baking pan, cover with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).