Beef And Mac Combo
A hearty, cheesy beef and macaroni casserole with savory tomatoes and vegetables, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 3-quart saucepan, saute the beef, onion, and celery until the meat is browned.
- Add stewed tomatoes and salt; bring to a boil.
- Stir in the macaroni.
- Cover and cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes or until the macaroni is tender.
- Stir in shredded cheese until melted.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding garlic or Italian seasoning when sautéing the beef and vegetables. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of stewed tomatoes or add a tablespoon of tomato paste. If you want to make it a one-pot meal, try adding frozen mixed vegetables for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Beef And Mac Combo with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce. It also pairs well with steamed vegetables or a simple coleslaw for added crunch. For a comforting twist, top with extra shredded cheese before serving, or explore variations like Beef And Shells for a different take.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for 1-2 minutes or until heated through, stirring halfway.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef And Mac Combo contains roughly 281 calories, with 12g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value) and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2352mg per serving (102% 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?
Yes, you can substitute macaroni with any small pasta shape, such as shells or penne. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta's instructions, as some may require longer or shorter boiling times.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef and vegetable mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to eat, simply heat it up, stir in the uncooked macaroni, and proceed with the cooking instructions. This makes for an easy weeknight dinner.
Is it possible to freeze this dish?
Yes, this Beef And Mac Combo freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
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).