Beef Scramble
A hearty beef and macaroni casserole with savory tomato cheese sauce and mushrooms, perfect for family dinners and comforting meals with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain.
- While macaroni cooks, brown ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Stir in cooked macaroni, tomato cheese sauce, cream of mushroom soup, water, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 5 to 10 minutes to blend flavors.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of shredded cheese to the mixture before simmering. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you don't have tomato cheese sauce, you can use marinara sauce combined with a bit of cream cheese. This recipe is quite forgiving, so feel free to add extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms to enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Beef Scramble with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with the classic flavors found in dishes like Tina'S Pizza Casserole or Dr. Zan'S Texas Barbecue Beans. For a fun twist, top with sliced jalapeños or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. You can also reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it appears dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Scramble contains roughly 433 calories, with 10g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (70% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1182mg per serving (51% 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 gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free macaroni and ensuring that your canned sauces are also gluten-free. Always check labels to be sure, as some brands may contain gluten.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the mixture. You might also try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or using a spicy tomato sauce for an extra kick.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this Beef Scramble can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly on the stove or in the microwave.
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).