Beef-A-Roni(Makes 100 Servings)
Hearty and flavorful beef-a-roni combines ground beef, vegetables, and pasta in a savory tomato-based sauce, perfect for feeding a large crowd with comforting, familiar flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef with onions in a steam kettle with 2 gallons of water.
- Add green peppers, tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, pepper, salt, bay leaves, and celery. Reduce heat to simmer.
- Add macaroni to the mixture.
- Bring to a boil.
- Cook until the macaroni and vegetables are tender and the mixture is heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning your ground beef in a cast-iron skillet before adding it to the steam kettle. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If fresh vegetables aren't available, frozen ones work well too. Adjust spices to taste, especially if you enjoy a kick. This dish is similar to American recipes like Ground Beef And Macaroni Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Beef-A-Roni with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Ada'S Vegetable Chili for a hearty dinner. This dish can also be topped with grated cheese or fresh herbs to enhance flavor. Consider offering hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef-A-Roni(Makes 100 Servings) contains roughly 1271 calories, with 56g protein, 171g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (773% of the Daily Value), protein (112% of the Daily Value), and iron (82% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, Beef-A-Roni can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stovetop or microwave before serving. For best results, make it a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld.
What can I use instead of macaroni?
If you don't have macaroni, you can substitute with any small pasta like penne, fusilli, or even whole grain variations. Quinoa or rice can also be used for a gluten-free option, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
How can I spice this dish up?
To add more spice, incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking. You can also mix in taco seasoning for a different flavor profile or serve with a side of hot sauce to let everyone adjust the heat to their liking.
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).