Beef-Macaroni
A hearty and flavorful beef and macaroni casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and melted cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground chuck in a large skillet, stirring until it crumbles; drain beef.
- Add water, onion gravy mix, and tomato sauce to the skillet.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 20 minutes or until macaroni is tender.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, cover, and let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of this Beef-Macaroni dish, consider adding some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms while browning the beef. If you prefer a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be a nice addition. For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground chuck with lentils or a meat alternative to create a hearty meal that fits vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Beef-Macaroni hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting twist, serve it alongside some warm garlic bread or with a slice of Crater Cake for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef-Macaroni contains roughly 191 calories, with 11g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1485mg per serving (65% 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 it with any small pasta, such as shells or penne. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose to ensure it's cooked al dente.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Beef-Macaroni ahead of time. Simply follow the recipe and then cool it completely before storing it in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until warm.
How can I make this recipe even creamier?
For a creamier texture, you can stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese just before serving. This will add richness and depth to the dish, making it even more delightful.
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).