Dinner In A Bowl
Hearty beef and vegetable stew with a savory tomato base, perfect for comforting family dinners and full of robust flavors and tender meat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- About 1 1/2 hours before serving, in a large vessel, cook beef in salt water until tender.
- Add remaining ingredients, except macaroni; simmer until all is done.
- Add macaroni and cook for about 15 minutes or until tender.
- Serve in bowls with crackers and celery stuffed with pimento cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the beef before boiling it in salt water. You can substitute chuck with brisket or round if preferred. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth and replace the beef with hearty beans. Adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves can enhance the overall taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve in bowls with a side of crackers and celery stuffed with pimento cheese for a delightful crunch. This dinner in a bowl pairs beautifully with Cheddar Snacks for a complete meal. For a refreshing contrast, consider a simple side salad or Wine Jello Salad to round out your dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dinner In A Bowl contains roughly 636 calories, with 17g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (71% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (70% of the Daily Value), and potassium (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 502mg per serving (22% 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 in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours until everything is tender. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What can I use instead of V-8 juice?
If you don't have V-8 juice, you can substitute it with a mix of tomato juice and vegetable broth. For a spicier kick, add some hot sauce or diced tomatoes. This alternative will still provide that rich, savory base for your dish.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta instead of regular macaroni. Always check labels for broth and canned ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free. Enjoy a comforting bowl without gluten worries!
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).