Burger And Macs
A comforting classic featuring seasoned ground beef layered with creamy macaroni and topped with melted Cheddar cheese, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger meat in a skillet, then add chopped onion, oregano, basil, tomato paste, and water. Season with salt and pepper and simmer until flavors meld.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top generously with grated Cheddar cheese, and bake at 350°F until bubbly and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the meat mixture before baking. You can substitute ground turkey for the hamburger for a leaner option, or use whole wheat pasta instead of elbow macaroni for added nutrition. Adjust the herbs to your taste; fresh herbs can also enhance the flavor. For extra kick, add red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Garlic bread or crusty rolls make excellent accompaniments for soaking up the sauce. For a twist, try pairing with a tangy coleslaw to enhance the flavors. This dish pairs beautifully with Jeanette'S Ham for a comforting meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the dish in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or microwave individual portions until hot. If the dish seems dry, add a splash of water before reheating to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Burger And Macs contains roughly 934 calories, with 38g protein, 143g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (192% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 926mg per serving (40% 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 the meat mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply transfer it to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake. This makes it a great option for meal prep or for serving guests with minimal effort.
What can I use instead of tomato paste?
If you don't have tomato paste on hand, you can substitute it with an equal amount of tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes. Keep in mind that using tomato sauce may slightly alter the consistency, so you might want to reduce the amount of water added.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While Cheddar cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a blend for added flavor. Just ensure that the cheese melts well for a deliciously gooey topping.
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).