Beef-Tomato Dinner
A hearty beef and pasta dish featuring savory tomato flavors, mushrooms, and aromatic herbs, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with robust, comforting tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Pour off excess fat from the browned beef.
- Add minced onion, parsley flakes, tomato paste, water, salt, chili powder, and canned mushrooms with liquid to the beef.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Add the macaroni to the skillet and bring again to a boil.
- Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 20 to 25 minutes or until the macaroni is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, consider using lean ground beef to reduce excess fat while maintaining moisture. If you're short on time, pre-cooked macaroni can be added in the last few minutes of cooking. Fresh herbs can be substituted for parsley flakes, and if you prefer a spicier kick, try adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes. This dish is reminiscent of other comforting American recipes, making it a versatile weeknight meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the beef-tomato dinner hot, garnished with additional parsley for freshness. It pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, you might consider serving it alongside a slice of cornbread, similar to those found in Beef recipes like Barbecued Beef And Corn Muffins.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, cool the beef-tomato dinner completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water to maintain moisture, and heat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Microwaving is also an option; just cover to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef-Tomato Dinner contains roughly 306 calories, with 13g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (29% of the Daily Value), potassium (29% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2129mg per serving (93% 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 meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat used. Ground lamb could also add a unique flavor, though it may change the overall profile of the dish.
What if I don't have tomato paste?
If you don't have tomato paste, you can use an equal amount of tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes, although it may make the dish slightly more liquid. To thicken, consider adding a bit of cornstarch mixed with water or simmering longer to reduce the sauce.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots can be sautéed with the onion for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure all ingredients are tender and well combined.
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).