Beef And Macaroni(Quick And Easy Dinner)
A quick and easy beef and macaroni casserole with a spicy tomato kick, perfect for busy weeknights and satisfying for the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground chuck in a skillet until browned; drain excess fat.
- Cook elbow macaroni in boiling water until al dente; drain.
- Mix cooked ground chuck, macaroni, and Ro-Tel tomatoes together in a baking dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15 to 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding onions and garlic when browning the ground chuck. You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option or use gluten-free pasta if needed. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a cup of shredded cheese before baking. Pair this dish with a simple salad for a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top adds a nice touch. It also pairs beautifully with Veggie Sandwich for a more varied dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover, heating in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef And Macaroni(Quick And Easy Dinner) contains roughly 107 calories, with 12g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1790mg per serving (78% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Assemble the ingredients in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What can I add for extra flavor?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or chili powder to the ground chuck while cooking. You can also add vegetables such as bell peppers or corn for additional texture and nutrition. For a kick, mix in diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, this dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed, or heat directly from frozen, adding extra time to ensure it's 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).