Chuck Wagon Mac
A hearty, cheesy casserole with ground beef, vegetables, and pasta, baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking a flavorful, filling meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the Kraft macaroni and cheese dinner as directed on the package.
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced celery, chopped green peppers, and chopped onion to the beef; cook until tender.
- Stir in the drained corn, tomato sauce, salt, and pepper; cook for another few minutes.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the beef and vegetable mixture; mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or a dollop of sour cream when mixing in the macaroni. You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, and feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. If you're short on time, use frozen mixed vegetables instead of fresh.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chuck Wagon Mac with a side salad for a balanced meal, or pair it with cornbread for a comforting touch. A dollop of salsa or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top just before serving can add extra flavor. This dish also goes well with a simple veggie sauté or steamed broccoli.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover; heat on medium power until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, which will help maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chuck Wagon Mac contains roughly 425 calories, with 24g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (326% of the Daily Value), protein (48% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2408mg per serving (105% 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 freeze Chuck Wagon Mac?
Yes, this dish can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and it may require additional moisture when baking.
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).