Block And Tackle Macaroni Bake
A hearty baked macaroni dish featuring tender broccoli, smoky sausage, and creamy cheese, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thaw and drain broccoli, then cut into 1-inch pieces.
- Prepare the macaroni and cheese dinner as directed on the package.
- Add the cooked macaroni, broccoli, cream of celery soup, smoked sausage sliced into rounds, and sliced green onions to the mixture.
- Mix lightly to combine all ingredients.
- Spoon the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of shredded cheese on top before baking. If you're looking for a healthier twist, substitute turkey sausage for the smoked sausage. You can also swap the cream of celery soup for cream of mushroom soup if preferred. Make sure to cook the macaroni al dente, as it will continue to cook while baking.
Serving Suggestions
This Block And Tackle Macaroni Bake pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For added flavor, serve with a dollop of sour cream or hot sauce. You can also complement the dish with steamed vegetables or a fresh fruit salad for a balanced dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in, or reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Block And Tackle Macaroni Bake contains roughly 174 calories, with 7g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 682mg per serving (30% 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 sausage in this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use different types of sausage such as chicken or turkey sausage to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if using raw sausage, ensuring it is cooked through before mixing it into the bake.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the macaroni and cheese bake up to a day in advance. Assemble the dish and cover it with plastic wrap, then store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I serve with this dish for a complete meal?
This macaroni bake goes well with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables. You might also want to serve it alongside breadsticks or garlic bread for a hearty meal. For dessert, consider something light like Berries On The Square to balance the richness.
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).